Diversidade genética de cucurbita spp. usando marcadores moleculares

Abstract

Pumpkin is a globally cultivated crop, valued for its high nutritional content, and is used both in human and animal feed, which has led to a growing demand over time. However, some species face challenges related to productivity and resistance, influenced by various factors such as inadequate management practices and pathogen pressure. In this context, the characterization of germplasm accessions is essential to identify more resistant and productive varieties. The objective of this study was to estimate the genetic variability of a Cucurbita spp. population using microsatellite molecular markers and to evaluate genetic resistance to diseases through specific genetic markers associated with these pathogens. Genotypes of Cucurbita moschata, C. maxima, and C. pepo were used, obtained from the Cucurbita spp. Germplasm Bank at UFSCar, Araras Campus. The results showed the effectiveness of SSR markers, resulting in high diversity of polymorphic alleles and allowing genetic differentiation between the studied species. Additionally, the markers associated with disease resistance genes proved effective in the genetic characterization of the plants, emerging as a promising approach for the advancement of pumpkin genetic improvement.