Journal of Plant Process and Function

It is essential to identify and determine the properties of native plants as natural genetic resources. The present study was performed to identify the Mindium (Michauxi) laevigata species using molecular and biochemical procedures such as genomic DNA extraction, sequencing, and antioxidant capacity and protein content determination at both vegetative and generative phases in various parts of the plant. For this purpose, Mindium laevigata plants were collected from natural habitats and their genomic DNAs were extracted and purified. This was followed by the extraction of 18S ribosomal DNA sequence from the genomic DNA by PCR and its analysis to determine the antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and catalase). Accordingly, the proteins were quantitatively and qualitatively assayed at both vegetative and reproductive stages in the different plant organs of roots, stems, and leaves. Ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activities were detected in  the stem samples at the vegetative and generative phases, respectively. Gel electrophoresis bands of the total protein were found to be different in various parts and at different developmental stages of the plant. Another aspect of the study involved the use of the phylogenetic tree for the biosystematic investigations of Mindium laevigata. Molecular analyses resulted in the inscription of a new gene in GenBank under the accession number KC294445.1. Mindium laevigata seems to be a rich source of antioxidant enzymes and proteins and as such it is recommended for further research.