Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 171-181 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 176 of both species. Subsequent backcrossing with maize helps to retain the desired traits while maintaining the overall genetic makeup of maize. For instance, teosinte has been used to develop backcross inbred lines (BILs) that exhibit resistance to pests like the red flour beetle and improved plant architecture traits (Joshi et al., 2021; Adhikari et al., 2022). These BILs are evaluated for various agronomic traits, and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) are mapped to identify genomic regions associated with these traits (Joshi et al., 2021; Adhikari et al., 2022). 5.2 Marker-assisted selection (MAS) Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) is a technique that uses molecular markers to select plants with desirable traits during the breeding process. This method accelerates the breeding cycle by allowing for the early identification of plants carrying the desired genes. In the context of teosinte and maize, MAS has been employed to introgress traits such as pest resistance and improved plant architecture. For example, SSR markers have been used to map QTLs governing traits like plant height, leaf length, and ear number in teosinte-introgressed maize populations (Kumar et al., 2020; Adhikari et al., 2022). These markers facilitate the selection of superior lines that can be used in further breeding programs. 5.3 Genomic selection (GS) Genomic Selection (GS) is an advanced breeding technique that uses genome-wide markers to predict the performance of breeding lines. This method allows for the selection of plants with the best genetic potential for multiple traits simultaneously. In maize breeding, GS can be particularly useful for incorporating complex traits from teosinte, such as stress resistance and yield improvement. Studies have shown that introgressed teosinte alleles can enhance maize's adaptability to different environmental conditions, making GS a valuable tool for developing resilient maize varieties (Calfee et al., 2021; Adhikari et al., 2022). 5.4 CRISPR/Cas9 and gene editing CRISPR/Cas9 and other gene-editing technologies offer precise methods for introducing or modifying specific genes in the maize genome. These techniques can be used to directly edit genes identified in teosinte that confer beneficial traits. For example, CRISPR/Cas9 has been used to create waxy corn hybrids with higher yields compared to those produced by traditional breeding methods (Gao et al., 2020). Additionally, gene editing can be employed to introgress specific alleles from teosinte that have been lost during maize domestication, thereby enhancing traits like plant architecture and yield under high-density planting conditions (Tian et al., 2019). By leveraging these techniques, researchers can effectively utilize the genetic diversity of teosinte to enhance maize breeding programs, leading to the development of superior maize varieties with improved agronomic traits and resilience to environmental stresses. 6 Case Studies of Teosinte Utilization 6.1 Drought Tolerance Teosinte has been instrumental in enhancing drought tolerance in maize through various genetic approaches. For instance, the development of hybrid models using artificial intelligence techniques has shown promise in predicting drought tolerance indices in teosinte introgressed maize lines. The genetic algorithm-based support vector machine (SVM-GA) model, in particular, has demonstrated high potential in forecasting drought tolerance and stress tolerance indices, making it a valuable tool for improving drought resilience in maize (Kumar et al., 2022). Additionally, the TCP family genes, specifically ZmTCP42, have been identified to play a significant role in drought tolerance. Overexpression of ZmTCP42 in Arabidopsis has validated its function in enhancing drought tolerance, suggesting its potential application in maize breeding programs (Ding et al., 2019). 6.2 Disease resistance Teosinte-derived alleles have also been utilized to confer multiple disease resistances in maize. A notable example is the teosinte-derived allele of the Mexicana lesion mimic 1 (ZmMM1) gene, which has been shown to provide resistance to northern leaf blight (NLB), gray leaf spot (GLS), and southern corn rust (SCR). The strong multiple disease resistance (MDR) conferred by this allele is linked to polymorphisms in the 3' untranslated region of the ZmMM1 gene, leading to increased accumulation of the ZmMM1 protein. This discovery not only aids in
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