Genome Analysis in Applied Plant Breeding

Mission Statement: Plant breeding is a historical discipline which laid the foundations of modern agriculture. The principles of classical breeding are still the nucleus of modern breeding methodology. In parallel, we have experienced a genome revolution in last two decades which enables the dissection and quantification of the breeding traits at single gene up to the genome levels with a great precision and pace. These advances has changed the paradigm of breeding science and fasten the selection strategies in establishing new cultivars in crop plants. The primary aim of this module is to focus on the methodological innovations in genome analysis and their significance in applied plant breeding. The students have the opportunity to learn a broad range of methods of genome analyses like DNA marker technology, high-through-put genotyping as well as whole genome DNA sequencing (Nex-generation-sequencing). At the same time, this module offers in depth learning on quantitative genetic analysis of breeding traits using marker by trait association analyses, gene-mapping and isolation as well as marker defined transfer of valuable alleles to develop new varieties. Further, new techniques like genome-editing (CRISPR/Cas system) and its potential application in applied breeding will be taught comprehensively in this module.

Content

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge Broadening
The primary learning aim is to broaden student knowledge on the analyses of inheritable traits from single gene up to genome levels and selection of marker defined traits in applied breeding. In addition, student will learn the technique of genome-editing (CRISPR/Cas system) and its potential in plant breeding comprehensively.
Knowledge Deepening
Methods of pre-breeding and selection for applied breeding industry. An excursion will also be planned to visualize applied plant breeding at major breeding companies.
Instrumental Skills and Competences
An in silico workshop will be organized to perform linkage analysis, quantitative genetics and marker by trait association analyses to dissect breeding relevant traits
Communicative Skills and Competences
The students need to hold a compulsory oral seminar of defined methods of genome analysis and their application in plant breeding
Systemic Skills and Competences
Students who have successfully completed this module will hold theoretical and practical competences to work in the area of industrial plant breeding.

Expected Knowledge and/or Competences: Introduction to plant breeding and genetics

Concept of Study and Teaching

Workload Dozentengebunden
Std. Workload	Lehrtyp
30	Vorlesungen
10	Workshop
20	Seminare
Workload Dozentenungebunden
Std. Workload	Lehrtyp
40	Prüfungsvorbereitung
30	Literaturstudium
20	Veranstaltungsvor-/-nachbereitung

Recommended Reading: H. Becker, 2019, Pflanzenzüchtung, Utb GmbH. ISBN 978-3-8252-4950-2G. Acquaah, 2020, Principles of Plant Genetics and Breeding, Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN 9781119626329

Assessment Methods Remark: Standard form of examination: exam, 2 hours (80%) + presentation (20%); at the beginning of the module, the students are assigned topics that have to be worked on and presented during the semester.The alternative form of examination (oral exam) will be chosen by the examiner if necessary and announced at the start of the semester.