| Autor: |
Adamek K; Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada., Jones AMP; Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada., Torkamaneh D; Département de Phytologie, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.; Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.; Centre de Recherche et d'Innovation sur les Végétaux (CRIV), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.; Institute Intelligence and Data (IID), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada. |
| Abstrakt: |
Advancements in micropropagation techniques have made it easier to produce large numbers of cannabis clones, but these methods may also introduce genetic instability over successive generations. This instability often manifests as somaclonal variation, characterized by the progressive accumulation of genetic mutations or epigenetic alterations with each subculture. In this study, we examined how mutations accumulate in cannabis clones subjected to 6-11 subcultures. Using genotyping-by-sequencing, we identified 9405 polymorphic variants across 70 clones. The analysis revealed a correlation between the number of subcultures and the frequency of these mutations, revealing that genetic changes accumulate over successive subcultures despite clones sharing the same chronological age. Furthermore, we evaluated the functional impacts of accumulated mutations, with particular attention to implications on gene function and overall plant health. While rare, 14 high-impact variants were identified in genes that are important for plant development. Notably, six variants were also found in genes related to cannabinoid and terpene synthesis pathways, potentially affecting the plant's biochemical composition. These findings highlight the need for genetic assessments in micropropagation protocols, impacting plant breeding and conservation. Understanding genetic variations in clonally propagated plants optimizes practices for stability. Crucial for cannabis and horticultural plants, it emphasizes techniques to prevent genetic decay and ensure viability. |
