Evaluation of genetic diversity among 18 Lucerne genotypes (Medicago Sativa L.) Using SDS-PAGE Markers

ABSTRACT: Alfalfa is one of the most important forage plants with high protein and adaptability to different climate. Genetic diversity based on different markers, plays a key role in breeding programs for selection of parents. In this study, protein pattern of 18 alfalfa genotypes (Medicago sativa L.) were studied using SDS- PAGE. For each genotype leaf extraction was performed using the Laemmli method. The results showed difference between genotypes for the number, density and intensity of protein bands. 24 bands were observed in the studied populations which the most number of bands related to ES-052 and the least number belonging to the populations KR-615 and ES-067. Cluster analysis was performed based on Jaccard’s similarity coefficient and the populations were classified into three clusters. The coordinate’s analysis was performed using the similarity matrix and confirmed the results of cluster analysis. Similarity matrix showed that the greatest similarity and minimum genetic distance belonged to populations (KR-2566,ES-014), (ES-053,ES-082) and (ES-051,KR-2421) with the similarity coefficient 1 and the least similarity, and the greatest genetic distance belonging to populations (ES-067,E-056), (KR-615,KR-2421) and (KR-615,ES-051) with the similarity coefficient of 0.23%.