Recent updates on molecular biotechnological intervention in isabgol

Abstract

Isabgol is a very important native medicinal plant and export commodity of India, which is the largest producer. At this stage, it becomes very important to study the genetic diversity within isabgol gene pool for proper maintenance, conservation, validation, and effective utilization. There are rare reports of DNA fingerprinting of Plantago ovata genotypes for determining genetic diversity or varietal identification. In this chapter, we discuss about the role of DNA markers especially random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs) for genetic diversity study for useful crops by taking isabgol as a case study. No other reports of recent markers are available for isabgol. Genetic variation in Plantago species is of prime significance for focusing on the constructive breeding of improved varieties/cultivars with added value and durable resistance against diseases.