24th Annual Student Research Conference
Analysis of Maize Seed Storage Protein Diversity Among Experimental Specialty Starch Lines
Rita M. Jokerst
Dr. Mark Campbell and Dr. Brian D. Lamp, Faculty Mentors
Two starch types have been selected using tropical maize germplasm in cooperation with the USDA-Germplasm Enhancement of Maize (GEM) program. One type is a high-amylose corn starch nearly indigestible to monogastrics and therefore is classified as Resistant Starch (RS), a prebiotic that enhances the immune system. The other corn starch type also resists digestion more than conventional corn but less than RS and therefore is classified as Slowly Digestible Starch (SDS) and may benefit patients in need of blood sugar regulation. These natural modifications are often made at the expense of grain quality and starch content. Seed storage proteins (zeins) may influence seed quality. We examined a diverse set of RS and SDS lines by profiling zeins using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and comparing to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images, revealing variable starch protein interactions. Additionally, zein profiles were compared to kernel weight, density and other kernel quality measures.
Keywords: amylose, HPLC, zein, maize, starch, GEM
Topic(s):Agricultural Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 1-3
Location: Georgian Room - SUB
Time: 4:30