Evaluation of Genetic Variation of Different Potato Varieties Using Electrophoretic Tuber

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) ranks the fourth most important food crops in the world. Determination of genetic diversity using different markers have a key role in plant breeding programs. In this research, SDS-PAGE technique was used as a tool for assessing genetic diversity relationships among 23 potato cultivars (Solanum tuberosum L.). Potato tubers proteins were extracted using Laemmli method (1970). UPGMA method and NTsys softwar were applied to calculate polymorphism and to draw dendrogram. Genetic distance of samples was calculated by SPSS softwar. 39 protein bands were observed in populations under study. The results revealed maximum number of bands (23 bands) in Markiz cultivar. Cluster analysis differentiated 23 cultivars in two large groups. Dendrogram constructed shows that Granola is closest to Impala (73.7%). Also, Fontaneh and Savalan cultivars were the most dissimilar ones (9.1%). Two major group of storage proteins appeared at 22 and 40 kDa positions could be probably the isomers of the Sporamin and Patatin, respectively. The results indicate presence of high level of genetic diversity in potato cultivars.