2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) To improve the rice breeding program by using molecular markers and run markers on mapping populations. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Specific DNA molecular markers will be run on material selected by the MSU and Missouri breeding programs and the USDA RiceCAP project. 3.Progress Report This report serves to document research conducted under Specific Cooperative Agreement between ARS and University of Arkansas. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the in-house project 6402-21310-001-00D, “Genomics and Bioinformatics Research in Catfish, Cotton, and Soybeans.” The Mid South Genomics Labortory (MGL) performed DNA marker analysis for USDA RiceCAP to help in the mapping of genes for milling quality and sheath blight. While MGL was not included as a major participant in the original RiceCAP, in FY 2007 it was realized by the principle investigators that the rice community did not have sufficient infrastructure for the quick mapping analysis needed for this project and thus the MGL was brought in to assist. Impact: While the mapping data is presently being analyzed the assistance from the MGL is allowing the RiceCAP to meet milestones which should allow for the project to receive continued funding. Selected rice lines from advanced generations were screened for homozygosity for loci associated with Blast resistance and starch content for breeding programs at Southeast Missouri State University and Mississippi State University. Subsequent output was analyzed and provided to the rice breeders with consultation on how to interpret and utilize the data. Participants attend annual RiceCAP meetings for discussions on the project.