Dissection of the Genetic Basis of Maize Plant Architecture and Candidate Gene Mining Based on the MAGIC Population

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: L.), yet the genetic networks orchestrating these complex traits require deeper elucidation. METHODS: In this study, we utilized a Multi-parent Advanced Generation Inter-cross (MAGIC) population comprising 935 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from 16 diverse elite founders. A comprehensive phenotypic characterization of six pivotal architectural traits-plant height (PH), ear height (EH), ear leaf length (LL), ear leaf width (LW), tassel main axis length (TL), and tassel branch number (TBN)-was conducted across three distinct agro-ecological environments. RESULTS: (F-box protein), which were associated with reproductive organ development and leaf elongation, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that maize plant architecture is regulated by a modular genetic framework, with specific loci independently regulating canopy structure and source-sink components. It should be noted that the findings of this study are based solely on statistical models identifying significant associations between genetic loci and phenotypes; the biological regulatory functions of the candidate genes have not yet been experimentally validated. Nevertheless, this study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying maize morphogenesis and lays a solid theoretical foundation for molecular design breeding aimed at developing high-yielding varieties tolerant of high planting densities.