Increasing aleurone layer number and pericarp yield for elevated nutrient content in maize

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Breeding
• Genetics

Background:

• Maize bran, comprising aleurone and pericarp, is rich in micronutrients, protein, and antioxidants.
• Enhancing bran quantity is crucial for maize biofortification.
• Accurate quantification of aleurone and pericarp layers is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop efficient analytical techniques for maize bran layers (aleurone and pericarp).
• To develop molecular markers for predicting pericarp and aleurone yield.
• To investigate the genetic basis of the multiple aleurone layer (MAL) trait.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping-by-sequencing was employed on two maize populations (yellow and blue corn).
• Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) analysis was performed for pericarp, aleurone, and grain quality traits.
• Elemental analysis was conducted on MAL lines to assess nutrient content.

Main Results:

• The multiple aleurone layer (MAL) trait is primarily controlled by a locus on chromosome 8, with minor loci also contributing.
• MALs significantly increased anthocyanin content (20-30%) in blue corn and iron content (17.5%) in grain.
• Increased iron (35.5% over Mo17) and zinc (15.5%) content were observed in MAL lines.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully identified molecular markers for the MAL locus, aiding in marker-assisted selection.
• MALs are effective in enhancing phytonutrient content, including anthocyanins and essential minerals like iron and zinc.
• Findings support plant breeders in developing biofortified maize varieties with improved nutritional profiles.