RAPD-based detection of genomic instability in cucumber plants derived from somatic embryogenesis

Abstract

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to evaluate genetic stability of regenerants of cucumber plants obtained through somatic embryogenesis. Somatic embryo plants and plants of F1 hybrids, from which they were derived, were compared during weaning, early growth, flowering, fruiting and at maturity. No differences in phenotype were observed, by simple observation. Banding patterns were scored for the presence (+) or absence (-) of a DNA band, there were no visually detectable differences between the somatic embryo derived plants compared to their F1 parents in the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) test using five primers OP-C10, OP-G14, OP-H05, OP-Y03 and OP-AT01. The results indicate the usefulness of RAPD markers to detect genetic instability in cucumber primary regenerant plants derived from somatic embryogenesis, and as a certification tool for monitoring genetic stability during the generation process.