Genetic profiling of eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E) in Cabai Berangkai variant (Capsicum Annuum): Comparative Alignment and Exon Sequencing Approach

Abstract: Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E) has been demonstrated as a key regulator of protein translation in vivo and it participates in plant defense mechanisms against viral pathogens. In this study, we examined the genetic variation within a local pepper variant (Capsicum annuum) called Cabai Berangkai (CB), which is characterized by the eIF4E gene. DNA isolation and sequencing of the eIF4E gene were performed, followed by comparative analysis with four reference cultivars: Doux Long Des, Landes (DDL), Yolo Wonder (YW), FloridaVR2 (F), Yolo Y (YY). We detected significant allelic variation in the eIF4E gene of CB with unique single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Results showed that comparison of the amino acids sequence of the eIF4E gene indicates high allele variation with the reference cultivars. CB also showed a unique amino acid substitution in the eIF4E protein among the different strains, possibly indicating genetic differentiation. These findings aid in understanding pepper genetics and are particularly relevant to the potential exploitation of diversity of eIF4E through breeding programs seeking increased viral resistance.