Seed protein electrophoresis for assessment of genetic variation within genotypes of meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis Huds)

Abstract

The protein diversity of 45 genotypes (forty genotypes selected within two gene pools and five varieties) of meadow fescue was examined. Genetic variation was described using ISTA/UPOV methods for crop variety identification. Modifications of acid-PAGE of alcohol-soluble proteins (prolamins), and SDS-PAGE of salt-soluble proteins (globulins) were elaborated for seed analyses of <I>Festuca pratensis </I>Huds. The results of this study indicated that the genotypes of meadow fescue could effectively be differentiated on the basis of polymorphism, detected between protein patterns. SDS-PAGE presented a higher differentiation power and better repeatability; thus could be used as a rapid and reliable method for the identification of <I>F. pratensis </I>genotypes in breeding programmes and the seed industry.