Protein profiles and antifungal activities of kernel extracts from corn genotypes resistant and susceptible to Aspergillus flavus.

Mechanisms of resistance to infection by the fungus Aspergillus flavus and accumulation of aflatoxin were studied in kernels of resistant (GT-MAS:gk, Mp420) and susceptible ( Pioneer 3154, Deltapine G-4666) corn genotypes. Proteins from kernel extracts of corn genotypes were analyzed by several methods of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Consistent differences in protein profiles were detected among genotypes. Several proteins were unique to or present in greater concentration in resistant genotypes, whereas others were present only in susceptible genotypes. Extracts of resistant kernels showed markedly greater antifungal activity against A. flavus than did susceptible kernel extracts. Results from the present study suggest a role for kernel proteins in resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination in corn genotypes.