Molecular identification of genes associated with water stress tolerance in maize varieties
Keywords:
candidate genes, drought tolerance, genetic improvement, maize, molecular markers, water stressAbstract
Water stress is one of the main environmental factors limiting the growth, development, and productivity of maize. The identification of genetic materials with favourable characteristics under limited water availability represents a relevant strategy for plant selection and breeding programmes. This study aimed to molecularly identify candidate genes associated with water stress tolerance in maize varieties by integrating molecular markers with the evaluation of physiological and productive responses under controlled water availability conditions. A completely randomised experimental design with a factorial arrangement consisting of six maize varieties and two water conditions—normal irrigation and controlled water stress—was used. Plant height, root length, dry biomass, relative water content, and water-use efficiency were evaluated. Molecular characterisation was performed through DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction amplification, and the use of specific markers linked to candidate genes associated with responses to water deficit. The results showed significant differences among varieties and water availability conditions. Two of the evaluated varieties showed a greater capacity to maintain relative water content, root growth, and biomass accumulation under water stress. Molecular analysis identified differences in the amplification patterns of the evaluated markers and associations between the presence of specific alleles and phenotypic responses related to tolerance. The integration of molecular and physiological results allowed the identification of maize varieties with contrasting responses to limited water availability. It is concluded that combining molecular characterisation with physiological assessment provides an effective approach for identifying genetic materials with favourable responses to water deficit and generates relevant information for developing marker-assisted selection strategies in maize breeding programmes.
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