Identifying Sources of Resistance to Aflatoxin and Fumonisin Contamination in Corn Grain

Researchers at the University of Illinois seek to identify sources of genetic resistance that contribute alleles for low aflatoxin and low fumonisin accumulation in grain and low severity of Aspergillus and Fusarium ear rots to commercial corn (Zea mays L.) inbreds. Studies of resistance to aflatoxin accumulation in grain and Aspergillus ear rot began in 1988 with experiments designed to address fundamental needs of a new breeding program. Through the 1990s, diverse inbred lines, test crosses, and segregating populations were developed and evaluated for resistance in numerous environments. Concerns of industry inspired researchers to initiate an accelerated program for resistance to fumonisin accumulation in grain and Fusarium ear rot in the late 1990s. Present research in both programs is directed with the latest molecular marker technology, and is focused on incorporating novel genes for resistance from diverse sources into elite inbred lines that impart high yield to hybrid performance. With continued funding, agronomically superior sources of resistance along with information on molecular markers associated with resistance soon may be released.