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Genetic diversity assessment plays an important role in plant improvement. It becomes more significant when evaluation is done at different ploidy and geographical origin levels. The present study provides a better understanding of the genetic association of Indian and Turkish hexaploid and tetraploid wheat. The Turkish hexaploid population demonstrated its close association with Indian hexaploid and tetraploid varieties. This confirmed their relatedness within the diverse gene pool. The results revealed in this study can be effectively used by breeders and evolutionary biologists for the development of genetically diverse, promising and healthier wheat varieties.

Background A total of 150 bread wheat genotypes representing 121 Indian and 29 Turkish origin were screened for nutrient concentrations and grain protein content. Elemental and grain protein composition were studied by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrophotometer and LECO analyser, respectively. The study was performed to determine the variability in nutrient concentrations present in the collected wheat genetic material from two countries.ResultsSeveral fold variations among genotypes existed for almost all the elements. Three major components of principal component analysis (PCA) revealed 60.8% variation among the genotypes. Nutrient variables segregated into two groups, one group containing all the macroelements except sulphur; and another cluster containing proteins and all the microelements except Zn and Mn. Pearson correlation analysis and heat-map were in accordance with each other determining strong positive association between P–K, Mn–Zn, Mg–S and Cu–protein content. Also, PCA and hierarchical grouping divided all the Indian and Turkish genotypes in two main clusters.ConclusionsNutritional profile differentiated the genotypes from two countries into separate groups. However, some of the varieties were closely associated and indicated the success of global wheat exchange programs. While most of the correlations were in agreement with the previous studies, non-association of zinc with grain protein content directed towards its control by some other genetic factors. Some of the experimental wheat varieties with promising nutrient content have been suggested for future wheat advancement programs. Results obtained will be supportive for breeders involved in wheat biofortification programs, food industries and people relying on whole grain wheat products.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40064-016-3586-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

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