Inheritance of plant regeneration from maize (Zea mays L.) shoot meristem cultures derived from germinated seeds and the identification of associated RAPD and SSR markers.

The inheritance of shoot regeneration through shoot-tip meristem culture derived from maize seedling was evaluated, and the markers (RAPD and SSR) associated with this regeneration character were identified both in a group of North American maize inbreds and a crossing population. A discrete distribution of percent regeneration and no. of shoots per explant was observed in the inbred group and the F(2) population. The results suggested that this regenerable trait was controlled by several major genes. Five RAPD markers were identified to be relevant to percent regeneration in maize shoot-tip culture system. One RAPD marker and three SSR markers were associated with no. of shoot per explant and its relevant traits. Of them marker BC603-1600 explained 18% of the variation for no. of shoot per explant and 16% of the variation for callus size. The BC603-1600 was sequenced and assigned in linkage group 7 based on a NCBI blast search. The information provided here should benefit to determine the genetic mechanisms involved in the maize regeneration response related to shoot meristem culture pathway and benefit to select high regenerable germplasm by using marker assisted selection.