Molecular detection of the flowering gene ZmCCT9 gene appearance in six maize varieties using PCR and fluorescence capillary gel electrophoresis techniques with different flowering times

Abstract

This experiment was conducted at the laboratories of Al-Musayyib Bridge Company for Molecular Analysis in 2024 to investigate the appearance or non-appearance of the flowering gene among six maize varieties. Four of these varieties are Egyptian, (coded as TW-78, TW-345, IY-355, and IY-207), and two are local (Baghdad-3 and Al-Maha). In this study, we used DNA markers based on PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and electrophoresis techniques, where forward and reverse primers for the flowering gene were utilized to distinguish between varieties in terms of flowering time, whether early or late flowering, based on the appearance or non-appearance of the flowering gene. The results indicated that the primer pairs used with the target flowering gene are highly efficient in diagnosing the genetic performance among the selected varieties based on the differences in their flowering times, using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and gel electrophoresis techniques. The results indicate that: the Egyptian variety IY-355 did not show any band in the PCR reaction for the flowering gene, evidence that this variety does not possess the target gene. Consequently, it may flower over a wide thermal range (long days). Genes or genetic loci may influence the trait of early or delayed flowering. Further studies are needed. Egyptian varieties (TW-78, TW-345 and IT-207) and local varieties (Baghdad 3 and Al-Maha) showed a unique single band with a molecular weight of 400 bp, indicating the recognition of the forward and reverse primers for the flowering gene on similar sequences in the DNA of the varieties and considering it a genetic fingerprint to distinguish between them. This will assist in developing superior varieties to increase grain yield and achieve self-sufficiency. As well as developing the genotype and expanding the genetic base of the maize corn crop. So to benefit from those results in selecting and determining the most suitable and appropriate method in programs for cultivating maize to obtain genotype with high productivity and promising traits.