Transferability of microsatellites markers from genus Cercis to Bauhinia forficata subsp. pruinosa (Fabaceae): a tool for genetic characterization

Abstract

Background and aims: Bauhinia forficata subsp. pruinosa is a native South American tree widely used in traditional medicine due to its hypoglycaemic properties, attributed to glycosylated flavonoids. Little is known about the genetic diversity of its populations, therefore, the aim was to evaluate the transferability of microsatellite (SSR) markers developed for the genus Cercis to B. forficata subsp. pruinosa and to characterize them.M&M: Fifteen SSR markers developed for Cercis canadensis and Cercis chinensis were tested in 52 individuals from its distribution range of Argentina. Total genomic DNA was extracted from leaf tissue using the CTAB method. PCR amplification was performed under standardized conditions, and fragments were analyzed to estimate the number of alleles and genetic diversity parameters.Results: Six SSR markers succefully amplified and generated 34 alleles, with 3–7 alleles per locus. Genetic diversity parameters showed moderate levels of genetic variability (mean He = 0.481; Ho = 0.502), and the average inbreeding coefficient (Fis= –0.138) indicated a slight excess of heterozygotes.Conclusions: Some microsatellites developed for Cercis can be transferred to B. forficata subsp. pruinosa, providing a low-cost tool for preliminary population genetic studies, contributing to future conservation strategies and the sustainable use of native plant resources with phytopharmaceutical potential.