An ARF gene mutation creates flint kernel architecture in dent maize

Haihai Wang, Yongcai Huang, Yujie Li, Yahui Cui, Xiaoli Xiang, Yidong Zhu, Qiong Wang, Xiaoqing Wang, Guangjin Ma, Qiao Xiao, Xing Huang, Xiaoyan Gao, Jiechen Wang, Xiaoduo Lu, Brian A. Larkins, Wenqin Wang () and Yongrui Wu ()
Additional contact information
Haihai Wang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Yongcai Huang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Yujie Li: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Yahui Cui: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xiaoli Xiang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Yidong Zhu: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Qiong Wang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xiaoqing Wang: Shanghai Academy of Agriculture Sciences
Guangjin Ma: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Qiao Xiao: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xing Huang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xiaoyan Gao: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Jiechen Wang: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Xiaoduo Lu: Qilu Normal University
Brian A. Larkins: University of Arizona
Wenqin Wang: Shanghai Normal University
Yongrui Wu: Chinese Academy of Sciences

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-15

Abstract: Abstract Dent and flint kernel architectures are important characteristics that affect the physical properties of maize kernels and their grain end uses. The genes controlling these traits are unknown, so it is difficult to combine the advantageous kernel traits of both. We found mutation of ARFTF17 in a dent genetic background reduces IAA content in the seed pericarp, creating a flint-like kernel phenotype. ARFTF17 is highly expressed in the pericarp and encodes a protein that interacts with and inhibits MYB40, a transcription factor with the dual functions of repressing PIN1 expression and transactivating genes for flavonoid biosynthesis. Enhanced flavonoid biosynthesis could reduce the metabolic flux responsible for auxin biosynthesis. The decreased IAA content of the dent pericarp appears to reduce cell division and expansion, creating a shorter, denser kernel. Introgression of the ARFTF17 mutation into dent inbreds and hybrids improved their kernel texture, integrity, and desiccation, without affecting yield.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46955-9

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