Zn kernel content-based biodiversity analysis studies for biofortification in indigenous maize (ZEA MAYS L.) germplasm | Pakistan Journal of Botany 2025

Zn is an essential trace mineral for all forms of life due to its essential role in expression of genes, development of cells and replication. The World Health Organization recommends a daily intake of 6.7 to 15 mg of zinc for humans. Diversity determination among the inbred lines is essential for the heterosis breeding. Genetic biofortification of staple crops like maize presents a sustainable strategy to address malnutrition. The present study was conducted to estimate genetic diversity for Zn content in 50 inbred lines and evaluate their performance by using the correlation and principal component analysis in randomized complete block design with three replications. Zinc content in the grains was quantified by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry technique and six inbred lines 468 Zai, 738 MMRI 32, 749 4B-9, 739 4B-3, 737-339 and 476 Zai was found with higher Zn concentrations. A positive correlation was observed between zinc content and most of the observed traits, except for plant height (PH) and kernel yield (KY), which exhibited a negative association. PCA study revealed that the first three principal components had eigenvalue more than one indicated broad genetic base and accounted for 65.3% of the total variation. The identification of high-level genetic diversity could be used for maize improvement and inbred lines with higher zinc contents are valuable for breeders aiming to develop biofortified maize.

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