Development and validation of EST-SSR and identification of EST-SNP markers for snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina var. cucumerina L.)

Snake gourd is a natural antibiotic and the plant is commonly used in folk medicines throughout India. The present study was carried out using transcriptomic sequence of Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. for the development and validation of EST-SSR markers and EST sequences of T. dioica Roxb. for identification of EST-SNPs in T. cucumerina var. cucumerina L. A total of 382 primers were developed and out of which 58 were found to be suitable for genetic analysis. For experimental validation, 20 primers were randomly selected and amplified in T. cucumerina var. cucumerina and two related genera, viz. Coccinia grandis and Momordica charantia. It was found that 90% of the primers generated PCR products in T. cucumerina var. cucumerina and considerable cross generic amplification in M. charantia and C. grandis. Further, identification of EST-SNPs in T. cucumerina var. cucumerina was also carried out. The SNPs detected were converted to CAPS markers using the tool SNP2CAPS. The newly developed SSR and SNP markers offer novel additions to the genomic resources of this important medicinal herb for population studies, phylogenetics analyses and estimation of genetic diversity.

Citation: Silpa S, Shinsy M Y, Sabu K K. 2016. Development and validation of EST-SSR and identification of EST-SNP markers for snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina var. cucumerina L.). Abrahamia 2: 51-56