SSR markers distinguish traditional Italian bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) landraces from Lamon

In this study, 12 microsatellite markers (SSR) were evaluated for their applicability to protect from frauds and misuse the Italian Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) product “Common bean from Lamon”. SSR analysis generated polymorphic alleles, with an average of 4 alleles per locus and all in the range of molecular weight between 181 and 284 bp. Twenty-nine variety-specific fragments were identified, which might be reasonably adopted for characterization and traceability purposes. Cluster analysis well outlined the relationships between the genotypes studied. Overall, our study underlines the use and usefulness of molecular markers to protect both farmers and consumers from frauds.