Elucidating compositional factors of maize cell walls contributing to stalk strength and lodging resistance

Lodging is one of the causes maize (Zea mays L.) production losses worldwide and, at least, resistance to stalk lodging has been positively correlated with strength. In order elucidate putative relationship between cell wall, strength and resistance, twelve inbreds varying in rind penetration were characterized for wall composition structure. Stepwise multiple regression indicates that H lignin subunits confer a greater Besides, predictive model showed high ferulic acid content increases lodging, whereas those diferulates decrease it. These outcomes highlight susceptibility stems may be conditioned by structural features rather than net amount cellulose, hemicelluloses lignin. The results presented here provide biotechnological targets breeding programs aimed improving maize.