Identification and characterization of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers derived in silico from Brassica oleracea genome shotgun sequences

The availability of sequence data derived from shotgun sequencing programs enables mining for simple sequence repeats (SSRs), providing useful genetic markers for crop improvement. This study presents the development and characterization of 40 SSR markers from Brassica oleracea shotgun sequence and their cross-amplification across Brassica species. The markers show reliable amplification, genome specificity and considerable polymorphism, demonstrating the utility of SSRs for genetic analysis of commercial Brassica germplasm.