AFLP and MS-AFLP Analysis of the Variation within Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus L.) Germplasm

摘要: The presence and extent of genetic variation in saffron crocus are still debated, as testified by several contradictory articles providing contrasting results about the monomorphism or less species. Remarkably, phenotypic variations have been frequently observed field, such usually unstable can change from one growing season to another. Considering that gene expression be influenced both epigenetic changes, epigenetics could a plausible cause alternative phenotypes. In order obtain new insights into this issue, we carried out molecular marker analysis 112 accessions World Saffron Crocus Collection. were grown for at least three years same open field conditions. samples analysed using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) Methyl Sensitive AFLP search (DNA sequence) (cytosine methylation) level. While variability was low (4.23% polymorphic peaks twelve (12) effective different genotypes), methyl sensitive showed high (33.57% twenty eight (28) epigenotypes). pattern obtained Factorial Correspondence Analysis and, particular, MS-AFLP data consistent with geographical provenance accessions. Very interestingly, focusing on Spanish accessions, it distribution is not random but tends reflect origin. Two clearly defined clusters grouping West (Toledo Ciudad Real) East (Cuenca Teruel) recognised.