Biochemical characteristics of bread wheat genotypes related to SSR markers in moisture stress conditions

Wheat is one of the oldest and most important staple crops worldwide, facing various biotic and abiotic stresses that affect its productivity. This study examines microsatellite markers related to grain yield, biochemical traits and drought tolerance indices in 25 wheat genotypes. The experiment was set up based on the randomized complete block design with three replications under rainfed and irrigated conditions. Combined variance analysis revealed significant differences among genotypes. Principal component analysis identified drought-tolerant genotypes (6, 10, 15, 18, 13, Pishtaz) linked to superior yield, stress indices, and antioxidant activity under rainfed conditions. Polymorphic SSR markers revealed key associations: XCFD168 with catalase, XGWM350 with ascorbic peroxidase (both under rainfed conditions), and XGWM136 with yield in irrigated conditions and multiple stress indices. Marker XGWM410(a1) was associated with yield in both environments, catalase in irrigated conditions, and multiple indices. Marker XGWM2(a2) was linked to yield in irrigated conditions, ascorbic peroxidase in rainfed conditions, and abiotic tolerance index, while XGWM124(a2) was associated with yield, superoxide dismutase in rainfed conditions, and multiple indices. The study identifies these genotypes as top candidates for drought tolerance due to their high yield and optimal biochemical responses under stress. Furthermore, key molecular markers – XCFD168, XGWM350, XGWM136, XGWM124(a2), XGWM410(a1), and XGWM2(a2) – associated with biochemical and yield traits are prioritized for marker-assisted selection to enhance drought tolerance and yield stability in breeding programmes.