Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Detached Leaf Assays to Simplify Gene Expression Studies in Potato During Infestation by Chewing Insect Manduca sexta
Published on: May 15, 2019
Natural variation in maize defense against insect herbivores
1The Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, Ithaca, New York 14853-1801, USA.
Abstract:
Genetic mapping projects with maize (Zea mays) have resulted in the identification of numerous quantitative trait loci (QTL) that influence resistance to insect herbivores. However, the underlying genetic basis of these QTL has been confirmed in only a small number of cases. Recent advances in genome sequencing, the development of large mapping populations, and advances in reverse genetic approaches will accelerate the discovery of novel herbivore resistance genes in maize. Areas that will merit particular research emphasis are natural variation in maize resistance to rootworms and phloem-feeding insects as well as the identification of previously unknown loci involved in the biosynthesis of maize defensive secondary metabolites.
Related Concept Videos
Defenses Against Pathogens and Herbivores
What is Natural Selection?
Light Acquisition
Frequency-dependent Selection
Monohybrid Crosses
Dihybrid Crosses

