Effect of diverse germplasm and pedigree structure on quantitative
traits
A large number of genes typically explain why two plant genotypes differ for vegetative
and reproductive traits. We can study the genetic architecture of complex traits by
crossing two plant genotypes and creating two descendant populations with different
genetic histories. If traits do have a complex genetic architecture, then the descendant
population that has undergone several cycles of recombination should have greater
variation than the descendant population that has not undergone several cycles of
recombination. In addition, if traits are genetically complex, we expect to identify more
loci that influence them within the descendant population that has undergone several
cycles of recombination than within the descendant population that has undergone less
recombination. We are using this approach to examine the genetic architecture of several
vegetative and reproductive traits in corn, Zea mays.
In a separate project, we are also examining the genetic diversity of maize in
collaboration with Dr. Liz Lee (University of Guelph).