Comparative analysis of the proteomes from cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) tuberous roots from sweet and bitter varieties

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a relevant crop, but the knowledge on the molecular basis of its quality is scarce. In this regard, the study of the proteome of the tuberous root may provide access to useful information, because the proteins are the effectors of gene expression and account for the agronomic or nutritional traits. Thus, this project aims to identify the proteins of tuberous roots of cassava which are significantly different between some varieties, since it is likely that their proteomes would also differ in respect to the proteins related to some specific traits. The protein profiles will be revealed by fluorescence after electrophoretic separation combining IEF and SDS-PAGE, and the proteins of interest will be sequenced by mass spectrometry. The identification of differential proteins may contribute to improve our understanding on the molecular basis of cassava quality and to the development of new varieties. (AU)