Use of QTL analysis in physiological research.

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis is a powerful approach to map and subsequently identify genes involved in complex traits. Here we describe the basic principles and recent achievements of this method, and its application in physiological research in plants. The rapidly increasing amount of molecular and “omics” data and genetic resources and tools, in model species ( Arabidopsis) and crops, will greatly support and stimulate the use of this approach in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]