ARS | Publication request: THE IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS OF MAIZE QTLS FOR SOUTHERN LEAF BLIGHT AND GRAY LEAF SPOT RESISTANCE

Submitted to: American Phytopathological Society Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 1, 2005
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Quantitataive resistance is the dominant form of resistance utilized in cultivated maize and quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance to many diseases have been identified. However, almost nothing is known about the molecular genetic or phenotypic basis of quantitative resistance in maize or any other crop. Our work has two major aims; working with the foliar diseases Gray Leaf Spot (GLS) and Southern Leaf Blight (SLB), we are identifying and mapping new sources of resistance from diverse germplasm. In addition, we are developing materials and methods for the detailed characterization and fine-mapping of selected QTLs. We have developed controlled environment screens for both GLS and SLB and have examined parameters that effect host resistance such as light intensity and plant maturity. We have identified several novel QTL for both diseases at both the seedling and mature plant stages. Furthermore, we have identified and made preliminary analyses of Near Isogenic Lines (NILs) differing in QTLs for both GLS and SLB resistance. These results will be presented and discussed.