Polymorphism of resistance genes to biotic stresses in some edible vegetable plants revealed by NBS profiling

Background: The flora of Armenia is extremely rich and diverse. It is a source of vast reserves of many different useful plants. Wild plants have played an important role in human life since ancient times: they have been used for food, medicine, fiber, and other purposes. Wild edible plants (WEPs) serve as a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fibers. They are also particularly rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, iron, calcium, iodine, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate. At all stages of ontogenesis, plants are constantly exposed to the risk of infection by various pathogens. Due to their lack of mobility, plants have evolved several molecular and chemical mechanisms that allow them to withstand biotic stresses. Objective: The aim of the research is two-fold. First, to study the nutritional value of some wild, edible vegetable plants distributed in Armenia. Second, to study the polymorphism of NBS-LRR genes, which are associated with resistance to biotic stresses, and conduct population genetic analysis using the NBS-profiling method. Methods: Experimental studies were performed at the Biological Research Laboratory of the “Agrobiotechnology Scientific Center” branch of ANAU. The objects of study were some wild edible vegetable plants common in Armenia Falcaria vulgaris Bernh., Chaerophyllum aureum L., Chaerophyllum bulbosum L., Rumex acetosa L., Rumex crispus L.). Results: The studied wild edible vegetable plants are rich in nutrients, mineral salts, vitamins, and have medicinal properties. The population-genetic indicators of all observed species are relatively high, therefore, according to the scale for assessing the state of the gene pool of herbaceous plant species, they are in a satisfactory state. Conclusion: Wild edible vegetable plants are a significant potential food source, and their domestication and introduction into cultivation is an urgent priority. The results presented in the work clearly demonstrate the advantage of NBS profiling in R and RGA gene marker and population genetic studies, therefore NBS profiling can serve as a important new tool in the process of obtaining varieties resistant to biotic stresses of agricultural crops and improving existing ones. Keywords: Wild edible plants, NBS profiling, nutritional value, biotic stresses, polymorphism.