Backcrossing Modulates the Metabolic Profiles of Anthocyanin-Pigmented ‘Vitamaize’ Lines Derived from Elite Maize Lines

Abstract

AbstractVitamaize lines (VMLs) were created by backcrossing the pigmented aleurone trait into Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (CIMMYT) maize lines (CMLs). This study evaluates metabolic differences between the VMLs and their original CMLs. Direct infusion mass spectrometry (DIMS) analyses, carotenoid profiling, total anthocyanins content (TAC) determination, and biochemical evaluation of the quality protein maize (QPM) endosperm trait allowed a comprehensive chemical characterization of the maize lines. DIMS data indicate higher hexoses and trigonelline content for most VMLs; the carotenoid profile revealed a decrease in β-cryptoxanthin to less than half of the original parent content for two VMLs but an augmentation for one VML. The pigmented aleurone VMLs did not inherit the complex QPM endosperm trait of the QPM CMLs. Except for anthocyanin accumulation, no other metabolites were consistently modified across all the backcross-generated maize lines with a pigmented aleurone trait. These findings suggest using genetic or metabolic markers rather than morphological or visual traits for future breeding programs.