Tetra-primer ARMS-PCR-based genotyping of molecular markers associated with mature fruit cuticular wax in Benincasa hispida
Truong Van Bui, Quyen Ho Thao Phan, Nguyen Hoai Nguyen
Abstract: In wax gourd breeding, mature fruit cuticular wax is an important trait that contributes to preservation ability and commercial value. A previous study has shown that this trait is determined by a dominant allele linked to SNP markers on the BhWAX gene. Notably, a critical SNP at position #902 (relative to the start codon) features a T allele in waxy lines and a C allele in non-waxy lines. This study focuses on establishing a tetra-primer ARMS-PCR system to genotype this trait in various Vietnamese wax gourd landraces (4 varieties × 3 individuals, n = 12). The assay successfully identified homozygous T/T and heterozygous T/C genotypes in all 12 samples, consistent with sequencing results; however, the C/C genotype was absent due to the unavailability of corresponding landraces. The study provides an effective, low-cost molecular screening tool, offering strong support for wax gourd breeding programs, especially in laboratories with limited equipment.