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GWAS and Transcriptome Analysis Reveal Key Genes Affecting Root Growth under Low Nitrogen Supply in Maize
Yunyun Wang1, Tianze Zhu1, Jiyuan Yang1
1Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology, Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics of the Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Agricultural College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
Genes
|September 23, 2022
Summary
Nitrogen deficiency significantly alters maize root structure, prompting researchers to identify key genes like ZmNAC36. This study provides valuable genetic insights for developing maize varieties with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Plant Genetics and Physiology
- Agricultural Science
- Crop Improvement
Background:
- Nitrogen (N) is crucial for crop production, and plant root systems adapt significantly to N availability.
- The precise genetic mechanisms governing root plasticity in response to low nitrogen (low-N) conditions are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate natural variations in root and shoot traits in maize under varying nitrogen conditions.
- To identify genetic loci and candidate genes associated with root plasticity in response to low-N stress.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed 213 maize inbred lines using hydroponic systems under normal and low-N conditions.
- Assessed 22 root and 6 shoot traits, employing genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Resequenced the candidate gene ZmNAC36 to identify specific genetic variations linked to root traits.
Main Results:
- Observed substantial phenotypic variation in root and shoot traits; low-N increased root length but decreased diameter.
- Identified 297 significant marker-trait associations across different N levels and N response values.
- Discovered 51 candidate genes and found specific SNPs and indels in ZmNAC36 associated with multiple root traits under low-N.
Conclusions:
- Elucidated the genetic basis of root plasticity in maize in response to nitrogen deficiency.
- Identified promising genetic loci and candidate genes, including ZmNAC36, for improving maize nitrogen use efficiency and tolerance.
