Characterization of diverse provitamin: A rich inbreds for lipoxygenase (LOXs) gene governing oxidative deterioration in maize

Abstract

Post-harvest deterioration of the quality of maize grain has become a serious problem worldwide. LOXs are large group of monomeric dioxygenase proteins having detrimental role on quality parameters in maize grains. Here, a comprehensive analysis was carried out on physicochemical parameters of LOX gene in diverse maize inbreds. In-silico analysis revealed differential expression of LOX genes in different seed parts like ear, embryo, embryo sac and endosperm. Variation was also found for sub-cellular localization of the protein. Of the 16 inbreds screened in the study through enzymatic assay, LOX activity varied from 2.63 to 9.36 units/min/mg of protein, with mean of 5.09 units/min/mg of protein. VQL1-PV was found to have the highest lipoxygenase activity, whereas HKI323 recorded the lowest LOX activity, offering potential scope in multivitamin staking in bio fortification programme along with high oil content. Identification of contrasting genotypes with differential LOX activity would help in future genetic studies.