RAPD studies on genomic DNA isolated from antimalarial plants: Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (Eucalyptus) and Artemesia annua L. (Artemesia)

This research paper reports a comparision of the genomic DNA constitution between two selected antimalarials plants, i.e., Eucalyptus globulus Labill. and Artemisia annua L. The Random Amplification of Polymorhic DNA (RAPD) analysis was performed to detect the polymorphism between them. Genetic analysis of these plants relies on high yields of pure DNA samples. Optimized conditions for DNA isolation and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) polymerization were provided. The method involves a modified Cetyltrimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) extraction employing polyvinyl pyrrolidone. The yield of DNA ranged from 1-2 mu g/mu l per gram of the leaf tissue and purity (ratio) was between 1.6-1.7, indicating minimal levels of contaminating metabolites. The isolated DNA was used for RAPD analysis. Reproducible and amplifiable products were observed in all PCR reactions that are polymorphic. The analysis revealed that these two plants showed genomic similarities, hence, it may be useful in paving a gateway for further research to design new modified drugs for malaria.