Regulation of growth and storage product metabolism in cultured kernels of maize

Maize (Zea mays L.) kernel growth and grain yield are functions of endosperm starch accumulation. In vitro seed culture was used to study the influence of assimilate supply on the growth and composition of maize endosperm and to determine how various metabolic events in developing endosperm are related to starch accumulation. Immature kernels were grown to maturity on liquid medium containing different concentrations of C (as sucrose) and N (as an amino acid mixture). Endosperm starch and protein syntheses responded to N supply in much the same way as do kernels grown on the intact plant. Protein accumulation was generally independent of sucrose concentration in the medium, while starch synthesis was reduced by low C supply. Extremely low or high concentrations of N also interfered with starch metabolism, possibly through a deficiency in metabolic enzymes or an osmotic imbalance. The relationship between starch and protein accumulation was dependent, at least in appearance, under low N and independent otherwise.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Agronomy

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Singletary, George William

Contributors dc:contributor

• Below, Frederick E.

• Chemistry, Biochemistry
• Biology, Plant Physiology

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1989 Singletary, George William

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI8924944
(UMI)AAI8924944

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/22140