Insight into the composition and differentiation of endophytic microbial communities in kernels via 368 maize...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Plant Science
• Genetics

Background:

• Maize kernels are vital reproductive structures.
• Systematic studies on maize kernel endophytic microorganisms from a population perspective are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate endophytic microorganism composition in developing maize kernels.
• To identify differences in microbial communities among maize inbred lines.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of transcriptomic data from 368 maize inbred lines.
• Exploration of endophytic microorganism composition and diversity.

Main Results:

• Fungi were most abundant in kernels, followed by bacteria and protozoa; viruses were least abundant.
• Significant variations in microbial composition and abundance exist across maize lines.
• Tropical/subtropical (TST) maize showed more stable and connected microbial networks with predominant beneficial bacteria compared to temperate (NSS) maize, which had more pathogenic bacteria.

Conclusions:

• Tropical maize germplasm exhibits enhanced resistance to pathogenic microorganisms.
• This germplasm offers valuable genetic resources for developing disease-resistant maize varieties.