Expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat-based molecular variance in two Salicornia (Amaranthaceae) populations

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics and breeding
• Molecular biology
• Ecology

Background:

• Salicornia spp. are highly salt-tolerant vascular plants native to saline environments.
• Understanding genetic diversity is crucial for improving Salicornia breeding programs.
• Developing molecular markers can enhance marker-assisted breeding for salt tolerance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize expressed sequence tag-derived simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers for Salicornia.
• To estimate genetic diversity and population structure in Salicornia species.
• To identify potential genes associated with salinity tolerance.

Main Methods:

• Development and screening of EST-SSR markers.
• Analysis of genetic diversity, including allele number, gene diversity, and heterozygosity.
• Population genetic analyses (FST, network analysis).
• Bioinformatic analysis (SMART) of SSR-containing peptide sequences.

Main Results:

• Six polymorphic EST-SSR markers detected 27 alleles across 46 Salicornia taxa.
• High genetic diversity and heterozygosity were observed at specific loci (e.g., DY529950).
• Population differentiation and limited gene flow were indicated, with one taxon identified as primitive.
• Specific loci contained domains potentially involved in salinity stress tolerance.

Conclusions:

• EST-SSR markers are valuable for assessing genetic diversity in Salicornia.
• These markers can facilitate marker-assisted breeding for enhanced salt tolerance.
• The identified SSRs provide insights into the genetic basis of salinity tolerance in Salicornia.