Unraveling the genetic basis of maize ear diameter in a multi-parent RIL population derived from tropical and temperate germplasms.

IF 4.2 1区农林科学 Q1 AGRONOMY

Theoretical and Applied Genetics Pub Date : 2025-07-09 DOI:10.1007/s00122-025-04964-2

Xiaoping Yang, Ranjan K Shaw, Fuyan Jiang, Guohong Wang, Xingming Fan

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Key message: Based on WGS data, GWAS and QTL mapping jointly reveal the genetic mechanisms underlying maize ear diameter and identify candidate genes associated with this trait. Maize ear diameter is a crucial yield-related trait, yet its underlying genetic mechanisms remain largely undefined. To elucidate its genetic basis, a multi-parent population was developed from tropical and temperate maize germplasms. Employing a combined genome-wide association study and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping approach, five novel candidate genes (Zm00001eb032370, Zm00001eb050010, Zm00001eb303690, Zm00001eb023590, and Zm00001eb035700) and three key QTLs (qE1-1, qE1-5, and qE1-7) significantly associated with maize ear diameter were identified. Comprehensive analysis revealed that these candidate genes are involved in essential biological processes, including growth regulation, signal transduction, and stress responses, and likely modulate ear diameter through mechanisms such as hormone balance, cell division, and expansion. This study provides critical novel candidate genes for improving maize ear diameter and offers valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating plant growth and development. Our findings not only enhance the understanding of maize developmental biology but also lay a theoretical foundation and offer new strategies for the genetic improvement of maize yield traits.

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揭示来自热带和温带种质的多亲本RIL群体玉米穗径的遗传基础。

基于WGS数据，GWAS和QTL定位共同揭示了玉米穗径的遗传机制，并鉴定了与该性状相关的候选基因。玉米穗径是一个重要的产量相关性状，但其潜在的遗传机制仍未明确。为了阐明其遗传基础，利用热带和温带玉米种质资源开发了一个多亲本群体。利用全基因组关联研究和数量性状位点（QTL）定位方法，鉴定出5个与玉米穗径显著相关的候选基因（Zm00001eb032370、Zm00001eb050010、Zm00001eb303690、Zm00001eb023590和Zm00001eb035700）和3个关键QTL （qE1-1、qE1-1和qE1-7）。综合分析表明，这些候选基因参与了重要的生物学过程，包括生长调节、信号转导和应激反应，并可能通过激素平衡、细胞分裂和扩增等机制调节耳径。该研究为提高玉米穗径提供了新的关键候选基因，并对调控植物生长发育的分子机制提供了有价值的见解。本研究不仅加深了对玉米发育生物学的认识，而且为玉米产量性状的遗传改良奠定了理论基础，提供了新的策略。

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来源期刊

Theoretical and Applied Genetics 生物-农艺学

CiteScore

9.60

自引率

7.40%

发文量

241

审稿时长

2.3 months

期刊介绍： Theoretical and Applied Genetics publishes original research and review articles in all key areas of modern plant genetics, plant genomics and plant biotechnology. All work needs to have a clear genetic component and significant impact on plant breeding. Theoretical considerations are only accepted in combination with new experimental data and/or if they indicate a relevant application in plant genetics or breeding. Emphasizing the practical, the journal focuses on research into leading crop plants and articles presenting innovative approaches.