Genotype-specific disinfection protocols enable reliable in vitro culture from mature field-harvested maize seeds

Disinfection of field-harvested maize seeds remains a major challenge for in vitro culture, especially in resource-limited settings. Developing reproducible, genotype-responsive protocols is essential to expand access to plant biotechnology. We evaluated eleven disinfection treatments across four maize genotypes (ATP, CHH, CHABA, KASSAI) using mature seeds and embryos. Treatments ET2, ST1, ST2, and controls supported high germination but allowed fungal persistence, while ET3, ST3, and ST5 achieved near-complete microbial suppression at the cost of reduced viability. Microbial profiling revealed dominant fungal (Fusarium, Penicillium) and 10 bacterial isolates contaminants. Genotype-specific responses were evident, underscoring the need for tailored approaches. This study validates mature field-harvested maize seeds as reliable explants for in vitro culture when disinfection protocols are optimized. The findings support scalable, low-cost tissue culture systems and contribute to sustainable biotechnology practices aligned with food security and equitable access to innovation.