Exploring the Genetic Basis of Flavonoid Accumulation in Maize Plant: Implications for Fall Armyworm Resistance
Research Poster Health & Life Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Quinn Loudy
Exhibition Number 77
Abstract
The devastation caused by Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on global maize production necessitates innovative pest management strategies. One promising approach is the exploitation of natural plant defense mechanisms, particularly flavonoid accumulation. Flavonoids, specifically 3-deoxyanthocyanidins (3-DAs), deter herbivory and reduce crop damage in maize. Their biosynthesis is regulated by the MYB transcription factor P1 required for the accumulation of 3-deoxyflavonoids (3-DFs). This study aims to identify allelic diversity for flavonoid accumulation in young maize leaves at the V2-V4 growth stage, preferred feeding sites for fall armyworm (FAW) larvae. We propose using Nested Association Mapping (NAM) and the mutant-assisted gene identification and characterization (MAGIC) approach to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for 3-DAs and 3-DFs accumulation. NAM combines linkage and association mapping for high-resolution genetic analysis, while MAGIC enhances genetic diversity, improving QTL mapping precision. A thorough evaluation of flavonoid pigmentation and genotypic analysis will link phenotypic traits with genotypic variations, facilitating the development of FAW-resistant maize varieties through marker-assisted selection. Such varieties may enable the reduction of pesticide and genetically modified crop use, input costs, and increase the sustainability of maize production.
Importance
The widespread use of harmful pesticides and GMO maize hybrids for managing fall armyworm (FAW) herbivory in maize has raised concerns regarding production costs, pest resistance, and environmental impacts. Identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with early flavonoid accumulation in maize leaves can contribute to breeding programs to develop maize varieties with increased resistance to FAW. By pinpointing specific genetic markers associated with enhanced flavonoid production, biotechnological approaches like marker-assisted selection can be employed to efficiently create maize varieties better equipped to combat FAW. This aligns with the intention to promote sustainable agricultural practices that minimize reliance on chemical pesticides, ultimately benefiting environmental health and lowering production costs for farmers.