RAPD Markers for the Detection of Common Smut Resistance Gene(s) in Inbred Lines of Maize (Zea mays L.)

This study was conducted to develop the common smut resistance gene(s) associated DNA markers in some maize inbred lines and estimate the genetic diversity among the six maize inbred lines under investigation. Twenty RAPD random primers have been used to determine marker(s) between the resistant and susceptible corn plants. Results indicated that some distinct markers were observed in case of using some primers but with the most of other primers, no markers were observed. Two markers, in case of primer no. 4 (5^- GTCCACACGG 3^-), at 280 and 400 bps in case of resistant bulk, were detected. Five markers, in case of primer no.16 (5^- TCGGCGATAG 3^-), at 620 and 1200 bps in resistant bulk, were detected and also at 330, 400 and 890 bps in susceptible one. Moreover, two markers, in case of primer no. 19 (5^- TTCCGAACCC 3^-), one of them at 480 bp in resistant bulk and the second at 900 bp in susceptible one. One marker in inbred line GM 27 at 280 bp and the other one in inbred line GM 30 at 400 bp were detected in resistant plants only. Four cluster groups were identified, however, the first included the inbred line G635, white; the second included two lines GM14 and GM27, white; the third included two lines GM1002 and GM 1021, yellow; the fourth cluster included only line GM30, white. Accordingly, the shortest genetic distance (highest similarity value) was detected between two white lines GM14 and GM27 (0.55). On the other hand, the highest genetic distance (lowest similarity value) was manifested between two lines; G635, white and GM1002, yellow (0.29).