Verlag-springer text Berlin Heidelberg , germany Department of Plant Sciences 2009 - eng

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369 hlm : ilus During the past decade, we have seen tremendous progress in maize improvement through the application of molecular genetics and biotechnology. Today, more than half of the US corn acreage is genetically engineered, and further development of this technology will have far-reaching effects on corn production throughout the world. This volume provides an overview of our current knowledge of maize molecular genetics, how it is being used to improve the crop, and future possibilities for crop enhancement. First, we consider the technical approaches for introducing novel genes into the maize genome, regeneration of transformed cells into plants, and creation of transgenic lines for field production. We then consider a number of genetically engineered traits that are currently, or soon will be, in commercial production. Next, we consider how molecular genetic techniques are being used to identify genes and characterize their function, and how these procedures are utilized to accelerate the development of elite maize germplasm. Characterization of the maize genome at the DNA and chromosomal level is providing insight into its structure and evolution, and this information is creating technical approaches that help us to understand and control gene expression. Ultimately, these approaches may lead to the understanding of a fundamentally important feature of maize, hybrid vigor. Currently, more than 70% of corn production is used for food and feed; hence, knowledge of the biochemical genetics of starch, protein and lipid production is fundamental for improving the nutritional and food-making properties of corn. We also consider chloroplasts, as they provide energy for the cell and the precursors for starch, protein, and lipid synthesis. Finally, we consider a new and growing use for corn as biomass for energy production. Thus, this volume provides an in-depth review of the foundation for maize biotechnology. Springer-Verlag Biotechnology in Agriculture and Forestry 78-3-540-68919-5 240405 20240405105830 INLIS000000000002327 Converted from MARCXML to MODS version 3.5 using MARC21slim2MODS3-5.xsl (Revision 1.106 2014/12/19)