Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 93-101 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 93 Feature Review Open Access Genetic and Environmental Factors Influencing Grain Quality in Maize Xingzhu Feng Hainan Institute of Biotechnology, Haikou, 570206, Hainan, China Corresponding email: xingzhu.feng@hibio.org Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0010 Received: 27 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 08 Apr.., 2024 Published: 28 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Feng, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Feng X.Z., 2024, Genetic and environmental factors influencing grain quality in maize, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(2): 93-101 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0010) Abstract Grain quality in maize (Zea mays L.) is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. This review synthesizes current research on the genetic determinants and environmental conditions that affect maize grain composition and quality. Studies have shown that transcription factors and other regulatory proteins play a significant role in gene expression variability, which in turn impacts grain composition. Genetic control over kernel compositional traits has been extensively studied, revealing substantial phenotypic variation attributable to both genetic and environmental factors. Environmental variables such as soil type, rainfall, and management practices also significantly influence grain yield and quality. Recent findings suggest that while genetic improvements have contributed to yield gains, the role of agronomic practices and climate conditions is increasingly critical. This review highlights the need for integrated approaches combining genetic, molecular, and environmental strategies to enhance maize grain quality. Keywords Maize grain quality; Genetic factors; Environmental influences; Transcription factors; Agronomic practices 1 Introduction Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most significant crops globally, serving as a staple food for millions of people and a critical component in animal feed and industrial products. Its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and its high yield potential make it a vital crop in both developed and developing countries. In regions like Argentina, maize production is undergoing changes with farmers planting later in the growing season, which necessitates an understanding of the influences of genotype, management, and environmental variables on grain yield (Lee and Tollenaar, 2007; Gambin et al., 2016). Similarly, in sub-Saharan Africa, maize is crucial for food security, and breeding programs have focused on developing cultivars that can withstand stress conditions such as drought and low soil fertility (Badu‐Apraku et al., 2015; Mebratu et al., 2019). Grain quality in maize encompasses a variety of traits, including kernel composition (e.g., protein, starch, and oil content), kernel hardness, and breakage susceptibility. These traits are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. For instance, studies have shown that nitrogen application can significantly affect kernel hardness and breakage susceptibility, with genotype playing a larger role in determining grain quality parameters than nitrogen rate (Duarte et al., 2005). Additionally, the interaction between genotype and environment (GEI) is a critical factor in determining the stability and quality of maize grain across different environments (Katsenios et al., 2021; Renk et al., 2021). The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the genetic and environmental factors influencing grain quality in maize. By examining various studies conducted across different regions and under varying conditions, can identify key factors that contribute to grain quality and yield stability. The scope of this study includes an evaluation of the effects of genotype, environmental conditions, and management practices on grain quality traits. It also explores the potential for breeding programs to develop high-yielding and stable maize hybrids that can thrive under both stress and non-stress conditions. This study will serve as a valuable resource for researchers, agronomists, and policymakers involved in maize production and breeding programs.
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