Mapping and Genomic Targeting of the Major Leaf Shape Gene (L) in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Molecular mapping with simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers localized the major okra leaf shape gene (L^O) to a 5.4 cM interval in the distal region on the short arm of chromosome 15. Orthologous mapping of the closely linked markers with the sequenced diploid D-genome (Gossypium raimondii) more finely resolved the leaf shape locus to a 337 kb region.  By using expression analysis and candidate gene mapping, two LMI1-like genes are identified as possible candidates for the major leaf shape trait in cotton.