DNA-Based Molecular Markers and Antioxidant Properties to Study Genetic Diversity and Relationship Assessment in Blueberries

Abstract

Blueberries (Vaccinium L. spp.) are an economically and medicinally important plant. Their antioxidant properties are well-known for their medicinal value in negating the harmful effects of free radicals. It is very important to develop genotypes that are high in health-promoting factors and economic value to meet present world needs. Estimation of genetic diversity using molecular markers, antioxidant properties, and their association can reveal genotypes with important characteristics and help in berry improvement programs. Wild blueberries are a better source of antioxidant metabolites compared to cultivated ones. Extensive variations are present in molecular and biochemical contents among wild clones and cultivars. The current review provides detailed and updated information on the economic and medicinal importance of blueberries, the application of molecular markers, and biochemical estimation in berry improvement and conservation, filling the gap in the literature.

Keywords

• antioxidants
• DNA markers
• genome-wide association
• quantitative trait loci
• polymorphism
• <i>Vaccinium</i> spp.