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Overall objective:
To contribute to the improvement of Kenyan maize by
identifying and utilizing segments of the maize genome
associated with quantitative resistance to two important
foliar diseases.
Specific objectives:
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To identify segments of the maize
genome associated with disease resistance based on published QTL
studies, analysis of shifts in allele frequency in maize populations
that have been subjected to recurrent selection for disease
resistance, and trait-marker associations in segregating populations.
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To develop and characterize near-isogenic
lines for disease QTL, as a basis for better understanding chromosomal
segments carrying disease resistance loci.
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To identify molecular markers that
can be used for marker assisted selection for disease resistance.
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To provide support to collaborators
in Kenya for molecular analysis of disease resistance in particular,
and molecular genetic analysis in general.
Short description of the project:
Gray leaf spot (GLS) and northern corn leaf blight (NCLB) are severe
problems for Kenyan maize farmers, and are also important for maize
production in the US. This summary relates to the US component of a
collaborative project aimed at improving disease resistance in African
maize populations. The overall project brings together molecular
analysis of disease resistance with marker-assisted selection and
conventional resistance breeding.
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