As a result of molecular studies, the information gathered from many molecular studies such as genome sequencing, gene mapping and creation of genetic linkage maps, and detection of quantitative character loci have begun to direct plant breeding studies. In this way, the time required for the development of disease-resistant, high-yielding, nutritious varieties having great adaptation ability to various growth conditions has been shortened. By usage of genetic markers and determination of polymorphic region on genome thanks to molecular studies, plant breeding programs have been accelerated.

In the Molecular Plant Breeding Laboratory of Argeto Vegetable Seeds, the disease resistance of economically important vegetables such as melon, watermelon, zucchini, pepper, eggplant, tomato, cucumber, and gherkin are examined following Molecular Assisted Selection (MAS) studies. Genomic DNA (gDNA) and RNA (gRNA) molecules extracted with high purity and concentration by organic extraction methods are used for MAS.

In addition to screening resistance genes against dozens of different diseases, plant materials are examined to reveal whether they are contaminated or not by plant pathogens for hours in the Molecular Plant Breeding Laboratory of Argeto Vegetable Seeds. RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) and RT-qPCR (Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) methods are preferred to detect contamination of plant samples with any pathogen. Furthermore, biochemical compounds are turned into products to improve the efficiency of plant breeding processes in our laboratories. The outputs of our works are presented in project competitions and international congresses.

Standard germination tests are performed in our laboratory in new generation germination cabins in addition to molecular studies. Moreover, various seed viability tests (tetrazolium test, hydrogen peroxide test, etc.) and seed vigor tests (cold test, accelerated aging test, electric conductivity test, etc.) are carried out by different methods in our laboratory. The results obtained from seed analyses are examined with statistics and artificial intelligence applications to determine the field performance of our candidate varieties.

To recap, thanks to its work, the Molecular Plant Breeding Laboratory shortens breeding processes, enables the rapid identification of promising genotypes, and reduces the cost of variety development processes.