Subprogramme 3 (SP3) aims to create product-driven teams that bridge the gap between generating research outputs and using them in developing country breeding programmes. The Subprogramme capitalises on the latest advances in germplasm characterisation, genomics and bioinformatics to accelerate genetic progress in simple traits such as resistance to biotic stresses. More importantly, though, SP3 strives to develop, validate and use markers to improve complex traits for impact on crop productivity in drought-prone environments.
SP3 has three main objectives. Firstly, it seeks to validate candidate genes and markers in target environments and adapted germplasm. Secondly, it aims to develop better means of optimising marker-assisted breeding (MAB), such as decision-support tools and protocols, and MAB simulation models and software. Its MAB projects span from introgression of a few target genes to marker-assisted recurrent selection that stack favourable alleles at multiple genomic regions. SP3’s third objective is to expand and support phenotyping. Drought tolerance phenotyping remains difficult because of limited capacity, inadequate protocols and problems in the design of controlled stress experiments. Consequently, particular attention is being given to establishing highquality phenotyping networks, as well as defining robust protocols.
SP3 activities are aligned with GCP’s renewed strategy and refocused research priorities, with active collaboration with other Subprogrammes. With SP5, SP3 has played a major role in developing communities of practices, helping to reinvigorate and also stimulate collaboration and exchange of germplasm, information and skills. Collaborative activities also include evaluating reference sets with Subprogramme 1, identifying and validating genes and markers with Subprogramme 2, and developing decision-support tools with Subprogramme 4.