These EST-SSRs, along with other PCR-compatible markers, were then mapped using four pearl millet RIL mapping populations.
Locations of the markers were recorded using a camera (Pearl CCD series; IMI-Technology, San Diego, CA, USA) and 2/3-inch 55-mm telecentric lens (TEC-M55; Computar, NY, USA), and micromotion data were collected using a custom-made LabVIEW graphic interface (National Instruments Corporation, Austin, TX, USA).
A set of new pearl millet SSR markers were developed using available sequence information from 3520 expressed sequence tags (ESTs).
The 17 EST-SSR markers were mapped to 5 of the 7 pearl millet LGs.
Trinucleotide repeat markers were more highly polymorphic (38%) than the dinucleotide (16%), tetranucleotide (18%) and pentanucleotide (19%) repeat-based markers, as observed previously in pearl millet [ 33, 34].
Currently, circa 110 SSR markers are available for pearl millet in public domain out of which 65 SSR loci have been mapped [ 16- 20], but a much larger number is required for their application in plant breeding.
Mother-of-pearl markers are etched into the wooden railings.
Therefore, development of additional SSR markers is a valuable objective for the pearl millet research community.
These new SSR markers are being used in our on-going marker-aided backcross program for improvement of downy mildew resistance, drought tolerance and stover yield and quality traits in pearl millet.
