Nuclear DNA Content Analyses by Flow Cytometry of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Populations Obtained from Safranbolu, Türkiye

TL;DR

This study uses flow cytometry to analyze DNA content in saffron populations from Türkiye, revealing subtle genetic variation that could aid in breeding and conservation.

Contribution

The study identifies genomic diversity in saffron populations from Safranbolu using flow cytometry, challenging the assumption of minimal genetic variation.

Findings

Nuclear DNA content ranged from 10.45 pg/2C to 10.9 pg/2C among saffron individuals.

All individuals shared the expected triploid chromosome number (2n = 3x = 24).

Observed polymorphism suggests detectable genomic diversity within the genotypes.

Abstract

C. sativus (saffron) is the source of the world’s most expensive spice. Despite its economic significance, the genome structure is poorly studied. C. sativus is a sterile triploid (2n = 3x = 24) species, traditionally considered to exhibit minimal genetic variation. In this study, we analysed 45 individuals representing 15 accessions of C. sativus obtained from farmers in the Davutobası and Yukarıçiftlik villages of Safranbolu—an important centre of saffron cultivation in Türkiye. These populations represent an underexplored reservoir of germplasm with potential implications for biodiversity, conservation, and genetic improvement. Flow cytometry based on propidium iodide staining was used to assess nuclear DNA content, a key cytogenetic characteristic relevant to taxonomy, breeding, and molecular research. Nuclear DNA content among individuals ranged from 10.45 pg/2C DNA to 10.9 pg/2C DNA, all sharing the expected triploid chromosome number (2n = 3x = 24). Although variation was subtle, the observed polymorphism suggests the presence of detectable genomic diversity within these genotypes. These findings highlight the importance of analysing genotypes in understanding the genetic landscape of C. sativus. Selected individuals exhibiting variation in genome size may serve as valuable material for further molecular and breeding studies aimed at improving this culturally and economically significant crop.

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