Evaluation of genetic diversity in Jordanian Solanum nigrum plants and genetic stability of invitro grown plant using (AFLP) technique

Abstract

Solanum nigrum is an herbal plant that is reported for its healing powers against many ailments. In Jordan S. nigrum grows wild as a toxic weed in neglected fields and without any consideration of its medicinal value. This research aimed to collect and examine the genetic relationships of S. nigrum from different sites in Jordan. The in vitro-grown S. nigrum was established from the collected wild populations. Results of wild populations of S. nigrum. were arranged in two clusters (A & B) at the top range of hierarchy (genetic similarity of 0.13). Cluster A separated Bergesh Reserve population into its own group, while cluster B contained the remaining populations which were divided into two sub-clusters at a genetic similarity of 0.65, B1 contained Deer Alla and Jerash (2014 + 2015) populations at genetic similarity of 0.69 and B2 contained Almojeb Valley and Salt populations at genetic similarity of 0.71. However, the highest genetic similarity (0.87) was obtained between Jerash 2014 and Jerash 2015 from the same location. This dissimilarity might be due to the probability of cross-pollination AFLP (Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism) molecular analysis gave no genetic variations between in vitro grown S. nigrum before and after micropropagation compared with wild-type mother plants collected from the Jerash site in 2014. A solid conclusion needs more research on the genetic diversity of Jordanian wild-grown S. nigrum. This can be achieved by extending the collection scale to include all sites where this valuable plant grows.