POLYMORPHISM OF LEGUMIN GENES IN INBRED LINES OF VICIA-FABA

Length polymorphism of genes coding for major (LeB4-, LeA-groups) and minor (LeB3-group) legumin subunits has been studied in 10 individuals of each of 6 inbred lines of Vicia faba with gene specific primers vi a PCR amplification. It was possible to detect variability in number a nd/or size of PCR products obtained with genomic DNA. A general correl ation between the PCR product patterns and the inbreed lines could not be proved. The highest variability in PCR products obtained was detec ted in lines EFK, ACB and BKH; these lines were established by crossin g of three individuals each with a different chromosomal reconstructio n. The number of different LeB genes was estimated to be at least 13 ( inclusive 2 pseudogenes); for LeA, at least 8 different genes occur in the Vicia faba genome.