Robust and inexpensive SSR markers analyses using LI-COR DNA analyzer.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Genetics
• Plant Science
• Genotyping Technologies

Background:

• Plant genotyping methods vary based on purpose, impacting marker and platform selection.
• Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers are widely used due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of implementation, and codominant inheritance.
• Traditional genotyping methods using gel electrophoresis have limitations in throughput and detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of the LI-COR platform for plant genotyping using SSR markers.
• To assess the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the LI-COR platform compared to conventional methods.
• To determine the suitability of the LI-COR platform for laboratories with intermediate molecular genetics capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized SSR markers for plant genotyping.
• Employed the LI-COR platform with automated detection and fluorophores for SSR analysis.
• Performed gel electrophoresis, optimizing runs for increased throughput and reusability.
• Used low-cost M13-tailed primers for SSR marker amplification.

Main Results:

• The LI-COR platform demonstrated improved qualitative and quantitative performance over conventional gel-based assays.
• Routine genotyping achieved five runs per day, processing 48 genotypes with ten SSR markers.
• The platform offers a cost-effective, gel-based solution with medium throughput.
• SSR markers proved effective for genetic mapping, diversity studies, and identity verification.

Conclusions:

• The LI-COR platform, combined with SSR markers, provides an efficient and economical genotyping solution.
• This system is particularly advantageous for laboratories with intermediate technical skills and resource constraints.
• The LI-COR platform enhances the capabilities of standard laboratories for molecular genetics applications.