Genetic Diversity of Barley (Hordeum vulgare) Genotypes Using Microsatellite Markers and Association Analysis of Traits Related to Drought Compatibility

This study was conducted to investigate the genetic diversity and classification of 52 barley genotypes from Egypt, Iran and China (obtained from Dryland Agricultural Research Institute, Maragheh) using microsatellite markers. DNA was extracted from young barley leaves and amplified PCR products were separated on 4.5% polyacrylamide denaturing gel electrophoresis using 59 microsatellite primer pairs. From 40 microsatellite primer pairs with good amplification, 134 polymorphic alleles were identified with average alleles of 3.4 per marker and the PIC average for all of the markers was calculated 0.47. Based on the results, microsatellite markers showed high polymorphisms in barley genotypes. In cluster analysis based on UPGMA method, genotypes were classified into two main groups and two-rowed and six-rowed genotypes were diverged mostly from each other. Desirable genetic diversity was also detected within and between groups. Based on association analysis, 18 informative markers for drought compatibility were identified, which after confirmation in other tests could be used in breeding programs. In addition, these markers can be used efficiently for assessment of genetic diversity and classification of barley germplasm.