Research Details
- Research Name : Molecular Characterization
- Publications : 23
- Category : Research
- Research Year : 2020
- Location : Ibadan
Molecular Characterization
The Genetic Resource Center of IITA possess tens of thousands of germplasm accessions for clonally propagated and seed crops. As a result of the sheer size of these accessions, there is a need to develop strategies which use innovative technologies for characterizing genetic diversity and efficient utilization for germplasm enhancement.
Molecular characterization or DNA fingerprinting using molecular markers is an important process that provides valuable data to detect variation at DNA level and to assess genetic diversity in crops and their wild relatives, which in turn helps in selection of diverse parents in crop improvement programs.
DNA markers are used to evaluate the genetic variation in gene banks, as well as to identify phylogenetic and molecular structure of crops and their associated wild species. It also plays an important role in developing conservation strategies such as identification of duplicates or mismatches in rationalising ex situ germplasm collections.
Molecular markers can also be used to certify varieties, determine the presence or absence of diseases and assess the reproductive biology of species, among other applications.