CEDaR: Cedar Enhanced Durability & Resistance Genome BC User Partnership Project - Western redcedar multi-trait genomic selection

Fall 2014

Research Update On April 1, 2014, our Genome BC Partnership project led by Dr. Joerg Bohlmann (UBC) and Dr. John Russell (BC MFLNRO) officially started. The project aims to develop genomic tools to support the breeding and selection of western redcedar (Cw) with emphasis on deer browse resistance, volume and growth, cedar leaf blight (CLB) resistance and heartwood durability. Since its inception, we have made advances with both the transcriptome sequencing and phenotyping of western redcedar (Cw). Below are a few of the highlights. To comprehensively catalogue the Cw genes, we have extracted RNA (transcribed genes) from eight seedlings that were selfed for five generations, referred to as S5 lines (Fig. 1A). This RNA (Fig. 1B) is currently being sequenced, and then will be assembled into a Cw reference transcriptome. The resulting S5 transcriptome assembly will be the foundation on which to evaluate which genes are correlated to our traits of interest. We are currently estimating the Cw transcriptome to comprise ~40k genes. Further to this, we have initiated work to assess differential gene expression between trees with high and low breeding values for 1) foliar monoterpene concentrations which have been shown to be related to deer browse preferences, 2) volume/ growth, 3) CLB severity, and 4) heartwood extractives which are associated with wood durability/ rot. Since gene expression is tissue specific, RNA 1B. Total RNA isolated from 1A. S5 seedling S5 seedlings will be extracted from different relevant tissue types to address the listed traits. To address the phenotyping objectives of the project, samples have been collected from 1,400 genotypes. Sampes include 1) wood cores for the evaluation of tropolones and lignans which are rot resistance compounds, and 2) foliage for evaluation of secondary compounds related to deer browse and CLB resistance. In the past few weeks, field evaluations of cedar leaf blight severity and deer browse were measured. Next we will carry out the detailed analysis of the chemical and physical properties underlying these traits.

Tim Sexton and John Russell, while performing field evaluations

With CEDaR now a third of its way through the project timeline, we can happily say that we are on track with our project goals. Of course, these initiatives are only possible with the generous support of our partners. Thank you.

Upcoming events that may be of interest th

October 15-16 : Cedar Research Working Group at the Cowichan Lake Research Station th December 11 : Coastal Breeder’s Symposiumat Swan’s BrewPub in Victoria For more information on either of these events please contact John, [email protected]