Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

Drought is one of the most important environmental stresses that influences metabolism and growth of plant.The genetic basis of the molecular, cellular and developmental responses to drought involve many gene functions regulated by water availability. In this paper we describe the first attempts toward the identification of the drought-responsive genes in the endemic species Acantholimon albanicum. Total RNA was extracted from leaves using protocols based on TRIzol Reagent from Ambion and the other using Total RNA Mini Kit from Gene aid. Spectrophotometric readings showed differences in RNA quantity and quality as well as gel electrophoresis determining the second protocol as more efficient in RNA quality. The cDNA was synthesized using Super Script III First-Strand Synthesis System for RT-PCR. Four pairs of specific primers were tested for amplifying sequences of a DREB gene reported to be responsible for plant response to abiotic stresses. Two sets of them resulted more effective in amplifying the target-sequences.

Biography

Fabjana Lakuriqi is currently working on her PhD in Plant Biotechnology at the University of Tirana, Albania. Part of her work was also carried at the Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources, CNR, Bari, Italy. She has worked as assistant professor with undergraduate and graduate students in the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Science leading laboratory work. She has published several papers and her areas of interest include molecular markers for plant characterization/ diversity, serological and molecular diagnosis in plant pathology, conservation of plant genetic resources, in vitro cultures for germplasm conservation and genetic improving.

Email: fabjanaa@hotmail.com