Differences in Vvufgt and VvmybA1 Gene Expression Levels and Phenolic Composition in Table Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) 'Red Globe' and Its Somaclonal Variant 'Pink Globe'.

A novel 'Red Globe' (RG)-derived grape variety, 'Pink Globe' (PG), was described and registered as a new genotype, with earlier ripening and sweeter taste than those of RG. Microsatellite analysis revealed that PG and RG are undifferentiable; however, the PG VvmybA1c contains six single-nucleotide polymorphisms within the coding and noncoding region, possibly related to the reduced VvmybA1 expression levels. Conversely, HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis showed significantly lower anthocyanin content in PG skin than in RG skin, and PG had no detectable trihydroxylated anthocyanins. Total flavonols did not differ between the variants, although some quercetin derivate concentrations were lower in PG. HPLC-FLD analysis revealed slightly higher concentrations of epicatechin and a procyanidin dimer in PG seeds, although the antioxidant capacity of crude extracts from either variety did not differ significantly. These differences, particularly in monomeric anthocyanin content, can be attributed to altered activity of a MYB-type transcription factor, reducing Vvufgt expression.

Identification and characterization of microsatellites from calafate (Berberis microphylla, Berberidaceae).

PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Southern barberry or calafate (Berberis microphylla) is a shrub species endemic to the Patagonian region of South America that is used for human consumption. The fruit is very rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins and has a very high antioxidant capacity. There have been only a few genetic studies of this and other closely related species. • METHODS AND RESULTS: Here we present the first 18 microsatellite markers of B. microphylla that were characterized using 66 accessions of calafate from Patagonia. On average, they had 7.6 alleles per marker, with an expected heterozygosity of 0.688. The informativeness of these markers was also evaluated in another 15 Berberis species, including most of the native and endemic Chilean species. • CONCLUSIONS: The results confirm that these new simple sequence repeat markers are very polymorphic and potentially useful in genetic studies in any species of the genus Berberis.