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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Ames, Iowa » Plant Introduction Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #193683
Title: UTILIZING THE NPGS (NATIONAL PLANT GERMPLASM SYSTEM) FOR MEDICINAL PLANT RESEARCH

Author
item McCoy, Joe Ann
item Widrlechner, Mark

Submitted to: American Society of Horticulture Science Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/1/2006
Publication Date: 7/1/2006
Citation: Mccoy, J.H., Widrlechner, M.P. 2006. Utilizing the NPGS (National Plant Germplasm System) for medicinal plant research [abstract]. American Society of Horticulture Science Meeting. HortScience. 41:961.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The NPGS is a cooperative effort by public (State and Federal) and private organizations to preserve the genetic diversity of plants by long-term storage of germplasm, primarily in the form of seeds. The mission of the NPGS includes: 1.) the conservation of diverse crop germplasm through collection and acquisition; 2.) conducting a variety of germplasm-related research; and 3.) encouraging the use of the germplasm collections and associated information for research, crop improvement and product development. Accession data is maintained via the Germplasm Resources Information Network's database (GRIN http://www.ars-grin.gov/npgs/). 466,173 accessions are represented in the NPGS as of 26 Feb 2006. This presentation will summarize how medicinal plant researchers can utilize the NCRPIS. The collections are suitable for a wide variety of research projects ranging from ornamental breeding studies to LC/GC analysis of metabolites of interest. Examples of current research projects will be discussed. The Echinacea collection will be used as a model example of a comprehensive collection available for research purposes. Illustrations of seed and control-pollinated cage propagation methods, and facilities utilized for seed cleaning, testing and storage will also be included. In addition, instructions on how to use the GRIN database to view evaluation data and acquire germplasm will be provided.