Abstract
Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) is an Andean crop which is very regarded for its medicinal properties. Yacon genetic profiles have been slightly studied using molecular markers. The aim of this study was to prepare the protocol for direct sequencing of the ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacers) regions of yacon DNA genome. The identified ITS regions in three Bolivian yacon's landraces (BOL 20, BOL 22 and BOL 24) were sequenced and then compared with ITS regions found in NCBI database, previously isolated in yacon and in other plants belonging to the genus Smallanthus. The analysed ITS regions of studied Bolivian landraces showed differences in the nucleotides 163-164 and 235-236 with the sequence previously isolated in yacon. A dendrogram was constructed by comparing the sequence presented in the manuscript and those in the NCBI database for Smallanthus, spp. In the dendrogram, the previously reported ITS sequence of Smallanthus sonchifolius was also used. Specific sites of Smallanthus sonchifolius ITS region gives a promising base for molecular approach identification of this underutilized crop.
Highlights
The size of the amplified product corresponds to the size of the Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) yacon region previously registered in the NCBI database (AF465902)
On the other hand their comparison with Smallanthus sonchifolius ITS region previously deposited in the NCBI database (AF465902) showed differences in two nucleotides
In the data source AF465902 sequence, it is not mentioned the country of origin of sequenced yacon variety but it showed to be different from our germplasm
Summary
Greater attention has been focused on this plant due to its agronomical, nutritional and pharmacological characteristics (Valentová et al, 2001; Milella et al, 2011). This plant produces tuberous roots rich in inulin. In different yacon genotypes FOS content can sensibly vary, which offers the possibility of selection and their use for breeding purposes to obtain genotypes with high FOS content (Ishiki et al, 2000). Yacon roots accumulate about 10% of inulin-type FOS, which is characterized as a dietary
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