Development of EST-SSR Markers Related to Polyphyllin Biosynthesis Reveals Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Paris polyphylla

Paris polyphylla is an important medicinal plant that can biosynthesize polyphyllins with multiple effective therapies, ranging from anti-inflammation to antitumor; however, the genetic diversity of still unclear. To explore characteristics cultivation populations in primary planting areas, we developed 10 expressed sequence tag simple repeat (EST-SSR) markers related polyphyllin backbone biosynthesis and utilized them 136 individuals cultivated P. var. yunnanensis. The index showed ten loci had relatively high polymorphism levels. Shannon information suggested more occurred within population less among population. In addition, overall exhibited a low degree differentiation populations, but maintained individuals, resulting gene flow general hybridization. structure analysis revealed possibly derived two ancestral groups all were found different levels admixture. at level, suggesting cross-pollination cultivars. These findings will provide insights into germplasm resources facilitate marker-assisted breeding for this herb.