Differential Expression Of Stress Responsive Scdr1 Gene In Indigenous Sugarcane Genotypes

Advancements in molecular approaches have helped to develop desired crop plants through transgenic technology. In addition to exogenous genes, endogenous plant genes may also be tailored for the betterment of particular traits. Here we report the comparative analysis of physiological performance parameters and differential expression of an endogenous stress responsive gene, Sugarcane drought responsive 1 (Scdr1) in indigenous elite sugarcane genotypes while growing on different levels of salt stress. Six sugarcane genotypes (CPF-247, CPF-248, CPF-246, CP77-400, S2006-US-272 and S2003-US-127) were grown in pots and exposed to salt stress ranging from 30 mM to 170 mM NaCl. Quantitative expression analysis revealed that Scdr1 is a stress inducible gene as elevated level of expression was observed in all genotypes after exposure to salt stress. Its expression was highest in genotype CPF-77400 and lowest in genotype CPF-246 under salt stress. Further, genotypes with higher expression of Scdr1 appeared to be more competent when assessed for physiological performance. Hence, retreived results may be employed for the selection and screening of stress tolerant sugarcane genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that homologues of this gene are present in sorghum, wheat, rice, maize and barley so, these results can be of great value for the improvement of other monocots as well. (C) 2019 Friends Science Publishers