Microsatellites in Zea - variability, patterns of mutations, and use for evolutionary studies

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Evolutionary Biology
• Botany

Background:

• Microsatellites, or simple sequence repeats (SSRs), are valuable genetic markers.
• Their utility across diverse Zea species, including maize, requires thorough evaluation for evolutionary studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the performance and applicability of maize-derived microsatellite loci for evolutionary research in the Zea genus.
• To reconstruct phylogeographic relationships and analyze genetic diversity within Zea populations.

Main Methods:

• Applied 46 maize microsatellite loci to diverse Zea species and 101 maize inbred lines.
• Analyzed microsatellite allele variation, including mutations in flanking regions.
• Reconstructed phylogeographic relationships using a genetic distance based on the infinite allele model.

Main Results:

• Maize microsatellites proved applicable to other Zea species with minimal obstacles.
• Observed complex mutation patterns, including indels in flanking regions.
• Demonstrated high intraspecific variability and successful reconstruction of Zea phylogeography.
• Identified a clear division between tropical and temperate maize inbred lines, aligning with known pedigrees.

Conclusions:

• Microsatellite markers are highly effective and reliable for evolutionary studies in Zea.
• These markers provide valuable insights into intraspecific variation, population structure, and phylogeographic history.
• The findings support the use of microsatellites for genetic resource management and understanding maize evolution.