Characterization of gene expression profiles in developing kernels of maize ( Zea mays) inbred Tex6.

Maize inbred Tex6 is resistant to several pests. The objectives of this study were to characterize gene expression profiles in Tex6 kernels and identify unique genes that expressed up- or down-ward in developing kernels in the later stages. Because of the resistance of Tex6 kernels, we reasoned that it would be an interesting candidate for microarray study. By using maize microarray, we analysed gene expression profiles in developing kernels from 25 DAP (days after pollination) to 45 DAP. A total of 8497 positive array spots were detected with unique IDs, in which 4247 genes were detected in all samples. The trends of total expressed genes were decreasing when kernels were maturing. Expression patterns of some genes in several metabolic pathways, including starch, lipid and storage proteins, were analysed. In comparison with 25 DAP, expressions of 211 gene features were significantly different at 45 DAP (P < 0.05), which will be used to produce a macroarray for germplasm assessment and evaluation. The real-time qRT-PCR was used to validate microarray study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]