Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Lactuca sativa and Lactuca taraxacifolia Using SSR and ISSR Markers

Damilola Olofintuyi *, Agbonkpolor Blessing Ele and Ibrahim Michael

Department of Biological Sciences, University of lagos, Nigeria.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2021, 03(02), 318-326.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2021.3.2.0144
Publication history: 
Received on 20 August 2021; revised on 27 September 2021; accepted on 29 September 2021
 
Abstract: 
The genus Lactuca L. is one of the economically and medicinally important genera of the Asteraceae family. This study aims to characterize and assess the genetic diversity of cultivated lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and wild lettuce (Lactuca taraxacifolia) using morphological, phytochemical, and molecular markers. Seven accessions of L. taraxacifolia were obtained from different towns in western Nigeria, while four accessions of L. sativa were obtained from different countries. Morphological assessment revealed variations in leaf arrangement, shape, margin, depth of incision, and texture. Phytochemical analysis showed that both species have high phenolic and saponin content, with L. taraxacifolia having higher concentrations. Molecular characterization using three SSR markers (LSSA14, LSSA43, LSSB28) and one ISSR marker (UBC816) revealed 100% polymorphism across all markers. The SSR markers showed successful transferability from L. sativa to L. taraxacifolia, demonstrating their utility for genetic diversity studies. Cluster analysis based on morphological and molecular data revealed distinct groupings between the two species. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic diversity of Lactuca species and establishes a foundation for conservation and breeding programs.
 
Keywords: 
Lactuca sativa; Lactuca taraxacifolia; Genetic diversity; SSR markers; ISSR markers; Morphological characterization
 
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