Author
 |
COE JR, EDWARD |
|
Submitted to: Canadian Genetics Society
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 6/15/2000 Publication Date: 6/15/2000 Citation: Coe Jr, E.H. 2000. Genetics, genomes, germplasm: maize the modern model. Canadian Genetics Society. V.43:97. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Question-driven research, which is the reason model species are chosen for study, is in its third century for maize. Demonstrations and answers derived in maize include Mendel's and Correns' on basic genetic mechanisms; heterosis; chromosome mechanics; transposable elements; developmental decisions; ectopic expression; and apoptosis. There is no plateau yet: Maize has highly complex genetic and biochemical properties, is highly advanced developmentally, and has been channeled phylogenetically by human selection and transfer. Questions about processes and implications in each of these areas are approachable because maize is uniquely robust experimentally, with powerful tools for manipulation, modification, and analysis. Undergirding the tools, maize has a highly developed foundation of knowledge about plant structure and development, genetic behavior, and origin. Assessments and understandings of quantitative traits, and of germplasm diversity dispersed over time, are among specific current advances based upon this foundation. |
