Using Molecular Techniques to Dissect Plant Genetic Diversity

Abstract

During the past few decades, the employment of molecular markers to discover polymorphisms in DNA has been playing an increasing role in conservation strategies and use of plant genetic resources (PGR). Molecular markers are indispensable tools for determining the genetic variation and biodiversity with high levels of accuracy and reproducibility in short times. Different typologies of molecular markers exist, specific for the different applications in molecular genetic methods. Molecular tools have been successfully applied in the analysis of specific genes and gene pathways, as well as to increase understanding of gene action, to generate genetic maps and assist in the development of gene transfer technologies. Molecular markers have also had a critical role in studies of phylogeny and species evolution, and have been applied to increase our understanding of the distribution and extent of genetic variation within and between species. The main two groups of molecular markers can be classified on the basis of the analysis method used: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and non-PCR-based. Recently, a new class of advanced techniques has emerged, primarily derived from a combination of earlier, more basic techniques. Advanced marker techniques tend to amalgamate advantageous features of several basic techniques, in order to increase the sensitivity and resolution to detect genetic discontinuity and distinctiveness. The past several years have seen revolutionary advances in DNA sequencing technologies with the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. NGS methods now allow millions of bases to be sequenced in one round, at moderate prices and in very short times. This paper is an overview of the diverse, predominantly molecular techniques, used in assessing plant genetic diversity, discussing about the most important and recent advances made in molecular marker techniques, their applications, advantages, and limitations applied to plant sciences in order to provide base platform information to the researchers working in the area.