Presented by David Holding, University of Nebraska

Abstract: Although the hard kernel Quality Protein Maize version of the high lysine opaque-2 mutant has been in use for decades, the nature of the modifier genes has remained ambiguous. To dissect QPM QTLs we used a deletion mutagenesis approach, which confirmed the 27-kDa gamma zein as the major chromosome 7 QTL. BSR-seq mapping of QPM recombinant inbred lines has identified a starch biosynthesis-related candidate behind the other major QTL on chromosome 9. For more general seed and whole plant functional genomics, we have extended the deletion mutagenesis approach to the B73 maize reference background and have developed a substantial population of novel seed and vegetative mutants. I will use several mutants to exemplify the BSR-seq and exon-seq tools we have been using to map these mutants and identify causal mutations and to demonstrate that a useful proportion of deletions affect single genes. Finally, I will describe our efforts to generate and characterize reduced kafirin sorghum lines for improved grain digestibility and protein quality.

Refreshments will be served in the Molecular Biology Building Atrium at 3:45 p.m.

Host: Tom Peterson