SNP marker system developed to map genetic diversity in medicinal mulberry germplasm

Researchers have deposited a preprint on bioRxiv describing the development and optimisation of a SNP-based molecular marker system for mulberry (Morus spp.), a genus of economic and ecological significance across East Asia and beyond. The study used genome resequencing of 51 mulberry samples to design SNP primers, with the PCR system refined through single-factor and orthogonal experimental assays.

The team analysed both phenotypic diversity and SNP-marker-based genetic diversity with respect to 1-deoxynojirimycin (1-DNJ), an iminosugar found in mulberry leaves that has attracted research interest for its effects on carbohydrate metabolism. The study characterises correlations between molecular marker groupings and 1-DNJ phenotype, providing a framework intended to support the selection and utilisation of high-quality mulberry germplasm in breeding and pharmacognosy programmes.

This work has not yet been peer-reviewed. The findings are of primary interest to plant geneticists and crop-improvement researchers working on underutilised species, and to educators covering the application of SNP markers in germplasm characterisation. No human health implications should be drawn from this preprint at this stage.