Summary

The aim of this project is to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms that are associated with high yields of commercially desirable essential oils in Melaleuca alternifolia. A single-nucleotide polymorphism is a DNA sequence variation occurring when a single nucleotide — A, T, C, or G — in the genome differs between individuals of a species.

Program

Tea Tree Oil

Research Organisation

Australian National University

Objective Summary

1. To identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DNA from candidate genes of Melaleuca alternifolia.
2. To genotype 400 samples of Melaleuca alternifolia DNA to identify which individuals have particular patterns of SNPs
3. To perform a formal association analysis to identify which SNPs are associated with high foliar concentrations of desirable essential oils.
4. To design and validate genotyping assays to monitor these SNPs in breeding populations of M. alternifolia.