Genome-wide association study reveals genetic loci for ten trace elements in foxtail millet (Setaria italica)

One hundred and fifty-five QTL for trace element concentrations in foxtail millet were identified using a genome-wide association study, and a candidate gene associated with Ni–Co–Cr concentrations was detected. Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is an important regional crop known for its rich mineral nutrient content, which has beneficial effects on human health. We assessed the concentrations of ten trace elements (Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn) in the grain of 408 foxtail millet accessions. Significant differences in the concentrations of five elements (Ba, Co, Ni, Sr, and Zn) were observed between two subpopulations of spring- and summer-sown foxtail millet varieties. Moreover, 84.4