MOLECULAR MARKER-ASSISTED SELECTION OF YELLOW RUST–RESISTANT, HIGH-QUALITY WHEAT GENOTYPES.

Yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) is one of the most destructive diseases affecting wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) worldwide, causing significant yield and quality losses. This study aimed to identify wheat genotypes resistant to yellow rust and possessing superior grain quality using molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS). A total of 48 wheat genotypes, including international and local varieties, were evaluated using 17 SSR markers linked to yellow rust resistance and additional DNA markers associated with grain quality traits. Genomic DNA was extracted using a modified CTAB method, and PCR amplification was performed. Gel-electrophoresis and GelAnalyzer software were used to assess genotypic polymorphism. The Wmc177 (150 bp) and Xgwm120 (156 bp) markers were identified as highly reliable for yellow rust resistance. Furthermore, UMN19 (367 bp) and UMN25 (299 bp) markers were linked to superior grain and flour quality. Cluster analysis based on resistant alleles revealed groups of genotypes with high genetic similarity, highlighting promising candidates for future breeding programs. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of MAS in selecting wheat genotypes with combined disease resistance and grain quality traits, providing valuable genetic resources for breeding strategies.