Microsatellite (SSR) markers reveal genetic identities, genetic diversity and relationships in a Malus x domestica borkh. core subset collection
Publication Overview
Abstract A collection of 66 Malus]domestica Borkh.
accessions from the USDA-ARS Plant Genetic Resources
Unit’s core collection was screened with a set of
eight SSR (simple sequence repeat) primers developed
at the PGRU in order to determine genetic identities,
estimate genetic diversity, and to identify genetic relationships
among these accessions. All eight primer
pairs generated multiple fragments when used in ampli-
fication reactions with DNA from these accessions.
High levels of variation were detected with a mean of
12.1 alleles per locus and a mean heterozygosity across
all eight loci of 0.693. The eight primer pairs utilized in
this study unambiguously differentiated all but seven
pairs of accessions in this collection of 66 M.]domestica
Borkh. genotypes. The probability of matching any two
genotypes at all eight loci in this study was approximately
1 in 1 billion. The markers detected two misnamed
accessions in the collection. Genetic-identity data produced
a genetic-relatedness phenogram which was concordant
with geographic origins and/or known pedigree
information. These SSR markers show great promise as
tools for managing Malus ex situ germplasm collections
as well as for collection and preservation strategies
concerning wild Malus populations in situ.
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