6th Annual Judith Ramaley Celebration of Research and Creative Scholarship
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Poster #104 Detection of Genetic Variation in Sambucus nigra, Sambucus canadensis, Gunicho purple and Local Frozen Elderberry using RAPD-PCR and Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Deepika Sharma Faculty Mentor: Kimberly J Evenson Elderberries (genus Sambucus) are native to North America (S. Canadensis) and Europe (S. nigra). The two species are similar with respect to taste and color, but little is known regarding their genetic heterogeneity. Comparisons at the genetic level could be valuable for understanding fruit yield, fruit quality, taste, health benefits, and antioxidant activities. Identifying DNA markers may also be important for identifying illegal fruit imports. Genetic diversity among elderberry lines was evaluated using random primers and the RAPD-PCR method. Leaf DNAs were first isolated from frozen leaves via a modified CTAB procedure. DNAs were then amplified to generate RAPD products in 45 amplification cycles using arbitrarily selected 10 bp-long primers. PCR products were then separated on 2% agarose gels and stained. One primer (#2) produced markers that showed variation between control (local elderberry) and selected lines of S. canadensis and S. nigra. These results suggest that RAPDs may be a useful tool for distinguishing elderberry lines with higher antioxidant levels. |
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