Identification of Simple-sequence Repeats in Malus (Apple)

Abstract

<jats:p>Simple-sequence repeats (SSRs) are efficient and informative DNA markers with great potential for germplasm characterization. When used to characterize large arrays of accessions, such as the core subset of the USDA/ARS <jats:italic>Malus</jats:italic> collection, SSRs may be more effective than other approaches, such as restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). For example, SSRs can be PCR-amplified and fluorescence-based detected; they also appear to be abundantly disbursed throughout plant genomes and yield abundant polymorphisms in most taxa studied. We are conducting an extensive screening of a size-fractionated library of <jats:italic>Malus</jats:italic> ×<jats:italic>domestica</jats:italic> cv. Golden Delicious to identify and characterize selected SSR loci. We are applying genetic information revealed by SSR loci in combination with passport and horticultural data to better comprehend genetic identity and relatedness in <jats:italic>Malus</jats:italic> germplasm collections and help develop the <jats:italic>Malus</jats:italic> core subset. Ultimately, application of molecular marker data will permit improved conservation and use of genetic resources.</jats:p>

Molecular Identification of Malus hupehensis (Tea Crabapple) Accessions Using Simple Sequence Repeats

“…To increase DNA yield from dried samples, the protocol was modified by overnight rehydration of ground leaf tissue in buffer solution. Szewc-McFadden et al (1995) designed the eight SSR primer pairs used in this study from a guanine-cytosine enriched genomic DNA library of M. ×domestica Borkh. 'Golden Delicious' (Table 2).…”