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Screening Methods for Downy Mildew Resistance in Maize: A Systematic Review.
Mable Chebichii Kipkoech1,2, Arsenio Ndeve1,2, Joao Bila2,3
1Department of Crop Production, Faculty of Agronomy and Forest Engineering, Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM), Maputo P.O. Box 257, Mozambique.
Genes
|March 28, 2026
Summary
Screening maize for downy mildew resistance is crucial for crop production. Established phenotypic methods reliably identify resistant varieties, but standardized protocols and molecular marker confirmation are needed for broader application.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Pathology
- Genetics
Background:
- Downy mildew (caused by *Peronosclerospora* and *Sclerophthora* species) significantly impacts maize production in tropical/subtropical regions, causing 30-100% yield loss.
- Effective screening methods are vital for developing resistant maize varieties to mitigate economic losses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize evidence on methods for screening maize resistance to downy mildew.
- To assess the effectiveness, reliability, and associated molecular markers of these screening methods.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and CAB Abstracts (1990-2025).
- Included studies evaluated phenotypic or molecular screening methods for maize downy mildew resistance.
- Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 framework, followed by narrative synthesis.
Main Results:
- Twelve studies, primarily from India and Cambodia, were included.
- Common field methods included spreader row systems and conidial spray inoculation; the glasshouse sandwich technique induced highest disease pressure.
- Phenotypic methods showed strong cross-method correlations (r=0.92-0.99) and high heritability (0.50-0.97). QTL mapping identified resistance loci on chromosomes 2, 3, and 6, with chromosome 6 being stable across species.
Conclusions:
- Existing phenotypic screening methods effectively differentiate maize germplasm resistant to downy mildew.
- Standardization of protocols, wider geographic validation, and independent confirmation of molecular markers are necessary for improved resistance breeding.
