Transcriptome Analysis of Flowering Time Genes under Drought Stress in Maize Leaves

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Plant Biology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Flowering time is crucial for maize yield and seed quality.
• Drought stress negatively impacts maize yield by increasing anthesis-silking intervals (ASI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the correlation between flowering time and drought stress in maize.
• To identify genes and transcripts affected by drought stress during the reproductive stage.

Main Methods:

• RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and bioinformatics tools were employed.
• Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was performed on drought-responsive genes and transcripts.

Main Results:

• 619 genes and 126 transcripts showed altered expression under drought stress.
• 20 drought-responsive genes involved in flowering time were identified, including PRR37, HY5, and CONSTANS.
• Novel drought-responsive transcripts with C2H2, CCCH, and NAC domains were discovered, potentially regulating flowering time.

Conclusions:

• Drought stress significantly impacts maize flowering time regulation.
• Identified genes and transcripts offer potential targets for improving drought tolerance and yield in maize.