Transferability of simple sequence repeat markers from other members of family fabaceae to chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Limited genetic variation exists within chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) owing to its narrow genetic base. Consequently, the DNA-based markers i.e. simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers that show considerable polymorphism in other crops reveal limited polymorphism in chickpea. Development of saturated linkage maps, marker assisted selection and gene cloning needs larger number of polymorphic markers which necessitates development of additional SSR markers for chickpea. Microsatellite marker development is costly, requires a great research expertise and effort. The cross-genera transferability of pre-developed SSR markers is a good alternative to new SSR marker development.

To generate additional SSR markers for chickpea, a total of 292 SSR markers from horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum, 94 SSRs), lentil (Lens culinaris, 66 SSRs) and pea (Pisum sativum, 132 SSRs) were evaluated for cross-transferability to chickpea using a panel of four chickpea genotypes-GPF2, ICC16349, ICC10685 and ICC15614.

Lentil SSR markers had highest transferability to chickpea (36.36%) followed by pea (18.18%) and horsegram (14.89%). Limited polymorphism was detected in chickpea; 10.61% by lentil markers, 4.25% by horsegram markers and 3.79% by pea markers. Overall, 62 new SSR markers were added to repository of chickpea SSRs.