A critical evaluation of SSRs analysis applied to Tuscan grape (Vitis vinifera L.) germplasm.

The SSRs amplification test is widely used as a genotype control instrument to monitor the identity of accessions undergoing clone selection programmes. In this work, 14 grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) accessions which are widespread in Tuscany, including Sangiovese and other minor grapevines known for their importance to release coloured pigments to red wines such as Colorino, Alicante and Abrusco, were characterized by SSRs amplification test (MS). The genotype data were obtained following three alternative methodological approaches. Statistical elaboration of the three data sets led to the production of three distinct dendrograms. Accuracy of SSRs analysis for genotyping depends on appropriate molecular tools, like the MS amplification test for genotyping, dependent on appropriate statistical elaboration rigour, since setting up an unsuitable methodological approach leads to inexact conclusions concerning the genetic similarity of individuals within population.