Genetic control of the opaque-2 gene and background polygenes over some kernel traits in maize (Zea mays L.).

Some kernel traits of agronomical importance in maize are affected by the opaque-2 (o2) gene and background polygenes, which express in different genetic systems such as embryo, endosperm, cytoplasm and maternal plant. A genetic model for seed quantitative traits with the o2 gene effects and polygenic effects as well as their GE interactions was used for protein content, lysine content, oil content and kernel density in maize. The results suggested that the o2 gene was involved in the traits investigated but the effects of the o2 gene were distinctive on various traits. The effects of the o2 gene were large on lysine content and protein content while minor on oil content. There was a substantially wide quantitative variation from polygenes expressing in different genetic systems for the traits evaluated. Significant GE interactions of the o2 gene and background polygenes declared that not only the main effects but also specific expressions depending on environments were responsible for variation of the traits studied. There seemed to have strong maternal heterosis and slight embryo heterosis for kernel density.