Genome-Wide Association Study of Maize Kernel Quality Related Traits and Their Molecular Mechanisms

In recent years, significant progress has been made in revealing the genetic basis and molecular mechanisms underlying maize kernel quality traits, thanks to the development and application of Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). Kernel quality traits in maize, such as starch, protein, and oil content, not only directly affect its nutritional value and processing quality but are also crucial for enhancing food security. This review summarizes the application of GWAS in the study of maize kernel quality traits, including the discovery of key genes and loci, how these genes regulate specific quality traits, and their potential applications in maize breeding. Furthermore, the article discusses the challenges and limitations of GWAS research, as well as future directions, particularly in the application of high-throughput sequencing technologies, precise gene editing, and integration of multi-omics data analysis, aiming to further improve maize quality. By deeply understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of maize kernel quality traits, this article highlights the importance and prospects of molecular breeding in the improvement of crop quality.