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Role of genomics in the potential restoration of the American chestnut

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Abstract

The development of genomic tools will enhance traditional tree breeding technologies leading to more certain and timely recovery of the American chestnut, a keystone heritage tree of the eastern United States. Major efforts are being made in gene discovery, genetic marker development, construction of a BAC-based physical map, and DNA transformation technology. A strategy of map-based cloning, association genetics, and genetic engineering, combined with traditional and marker-assisted backcross breeding is proposed for the long-term genetic restoration of this iconic tree species.

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  1. Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7247, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA

    Nicholas Wheeler & Ronald Sederoff

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  1. Nicholas Wheeler
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  2. Ronald Sederoff
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Correspondence to Nicholas Wheeler.

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Communicated by Jeffrey Dean

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Wheeler, N., Sederoff, R. Role of genomics in the potential restoration of the American chestnut. Tree Genetics & Genomes 5, 181–187 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11295-008-0180-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11295-008-0180-y

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