SASRI utilises a cutting-edge tool for genetic analysis: DNA fingerprinting. This powerful technology, housed in the SASRI Genetic Analysis Facility within the Biotechnology Department, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and quality of sugarcane varieties in the industry.
What is sugarcane DNA Fingerprinting?
Much like the unique fingerprints on human hands, each sugarcane variety has its own distinct DNA marker profile. Sugarcane DNA fingerprinting uses a set of DNA molecular markers to create a unique genetic marker profile for each genotype or variety. By comparing a sample’s genetic marker profile against a reference database, researchers can confirm the identity of the sugarcane variety. This process is essential for everything from breeding and selection to quality control and pest and disease management.
The reference genotype fingerprinting database
To streamline this process, SASRI has developed the Sugarcane Reference Fingerprint Database (SRFD), which houses the genetic marker profiles of all released sugarcane varieties, as well as those pre-released genotypes still in the breeding pipeline. This database serves as a key resource for verifying the identity of sugarcane samples. For instance, if a sugarcane sample labelled as ‘variety N82’ matches the genetic marker profile of N82 in the SRFD, it is certified as ‘true to type’. If there’s a mismatch, the sample is rejected as an ‘off-type’, ensuring that only the correct variety is used in breeding, cultivation and export.
Ensuring quality control at every stage
The importance of DNA fingerprinting extends beyond research. It is a vital tool in quality control at every step of the sugarcane production process. The SASRI Quarantine Facility, for example, uses DNA fingerprinting to ensure that all exported sugarcane varieties are accurately identified and ‘true to type’. Similarly, SASRI’s Extension Specialists, Biosecurity Officers, and P&D Inspectors regularly use fingerprinting to confirm the genetic identity of varieties in the field.
One of the most critical applications of DNA fingerprinting at SASRI is in the NovaCane® programme. All NovaCane®-produced sugarcane material undergoes DNA fingerprinting to guarantee it is ‘true to type’. Stringent quality control measures are in place for both internal and external laboratories involved in NovaCane® production.
Throughout the various stages of tissue culture, plant material is routinely sampled and tested to prevent any varietal mix-ups. This ensures that when growers receive their sugarcane material, they can be confident it’s the correct, certified variety.
The benefits of DNA Fingerprinting
Beyond identity verification, DNA fingerprinting offers several key benefits for the sugarcane industry, including:
- Genetic Characterisation: Provides detailed insights into the genetic makeup of sugarcane varieties, which aids in breeding and selection.
- Variety Protection: Helps safeguard the integrity of released varieties, preventing the spread of misidentified or mixed varieties.
- Traceability: Ensures that sugarcane products can be traced back to their source, adding transparency to the industry.
By incorporating DNA fingerprinting into every stage of sugarcane production, SASRI ensures that growers and stakeholders can rely on high-quality, authentic varieties. For more information, contact your local Extension Specialists, Biosecurity Officers, or P&D Inspectors.
