Identification, sequencing and phylogeny of APETALA1 ortholog gene (AP1) in Eruca sativa (Brassicaceae)

The transition from vegetative to reproductive phase is an important developmental under genetic control. This stage requires the activation of a set of genes in apical meristem, the expression of which transforms the meristem from vegetative to reproductive. The APETALA1 (AP1) gene plays an important role in transition phase and flower meristem identity. The identification and homology of this gene and its deduced protein in Eruca sativa was studied. Total RNA was extracted from flower buds and cDNA made. Specific primers were designed and then used for RT-PCR reaction. The results showed that the desired fragment of the gene contains 782 nucleotides (complete cds). This fragment was called EvsAP1 and recorded in the NCBI database (KX524132.1). BLAST of this sequence with other species, showed that Raphanus sativus and Brassica nigra have the highest similarity (87%) with EvsAP1. The deduced protein of the EvsAP1 gene contains 256 amino acids, which is 82% similar to Raphanus sativus. The total length of AP1 protein obtained from NCBI databases in most species of Brassicace is 256 amino acids confirming the sequence. Examination of location of the different species in the phylogenetic tree showed that all species of Brassicaceae place in clads close to Eruca sativa. The species has the highest similarity with Brassica nigra and Raphanus sativus so that the later and Eruca sativa located in one clade. These results confirm the accuracy of the obtained sequence for the AP1 gene in this specie.