2009 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) Identify the genetic map location of genes controlling pollen fertility restorer in sorghum. Identify potential candidate genes controlling pollen fertility in sorghum. Elucidate the mode of action of fertility restorer genes in controlling pollen viability in sorghum hybrids. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Utilize existing molecular marker technology to locate the genetic map position of fertility restorer genes. Utilize the physical map of sorghum and the emerging sequence of the sorghum genome to identify potential candidate genes. Compare sequence of candidate fertility restorer genes to known fertility restorer genes to understand the mode of action of these genes in crops. 3.Progress Report The goal of this project is to map and clone fertility restoration genes in sorghum. During FY 2009, the pollen fertility restoration gene rf2 was tentatively identified, and the pollen fertility restoration gene rf5 was mapped at high resolution. This provides the required information to permit cloning of the complete set of fertility restoration genes, and will allow plant breeders to develop new female and male lines for hybrid seed production. Ultimately, the work will result in development of improved sorghum varieties for U.S. and Australian farmers. The ADODR of this project and the cooperator maintain regular communication by phone and e-mail, where progress of the work is discussed and evaluated, and where solutions to work impediments are developed. The ADODR and cooperator meet periodically (at national scientific meetings, etc.) and discuss the direction and progress of the work.