Genome and transcriptome wide association study identify candidate genes regulating folate levels in maize

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics
• Nutritional biochemistry
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Maize (Zea mays L.) is a vital dietary folate source.
• Genetic factors influencing natural folate variation in maize are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing folate accumulation in maize.
• To identify key genes regulating folate content in maize kernels.

Main Methods:

• Integrated multi-omics approaches including RNA-seq, GWAS, and TWAS.
• Quantified folate content using HPLC and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs).
• Validated candidate gene expression using qRT-PCR.

Main Results:

• Identified 137 DEGs enriched in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and stress response pathways.
• GWAS identified 2,153 candidate genes; integrated analyses pinpointed 7 key genes.
• TWAS identified 13 causal genes involved in folate biosynthesis, with validated higher expression in high-folate maize.

Conclusions:

• Identified key regulatory genes influencing folate accumulation in maize.
• Provides insights for developing biofortified maize with enhanced nutritional value.