Breeding for Quality Protein Maize (QPM) Varieties: A Review

Abstract

Abstract:The nutritional evaluation of quality protein maize (QPM) in feeding trials has proved its nutritional superiority over non-QPM varieties for human and livestock consumption. The present paper reviews some of the most recent achievements in development of QPM varieties using both conventional and molecular breeding under stressed and non-stressed environments. It is evident that numerous QPM varieties have been developed and released around the world over the past few decades. While the review points out some gaps in information or research efforts, challenges associated with adoption QPM varieties are highlighted and suggestions to overcome them are presented. The adoption of released varieties and challenges facing QPM production at the farmer level are also mentioned. Several breeding methods have been conventionally used to develop QPM varieties in stressed (drought, low soil nitrogen, resistance to grey leaf spot, Turcicum leaf blight, ear rot, and Striga) and non-stressed environments. At least three genetic loci have been found to be implicated in controlling the levels of a protein synthesis factor correlated with lysine. They have been mapped on chromosomes 2, 4, and 7. While the use of molecular approaches will improve the efficiency and speed of variety development, the cost implications might limit the use of these technologies in the developing world. More emphasis should be given to breeding QPM for tolerance to environmental stresses, such as low soil pH, heat, and combined heat and drought stress. The post-harvest attack of QPM grains should also be considered. The adoption of QPM genotypes by farmers has been found to be limited mainly due to the minimal collaboration between maize breeders, farmers, agricultural extension workers, and other relevant stakeholders, as well as the need for isolating QPM varieties from normal maize. Therefore, there is need to use participatory plant breeding (PPB) and/or participatory variety selection (PVS) to enhance and improve the adoption of QPM varieties.

Marker‐assisted introgression of rare allele of β‐carotene hydroxylase (crtRB1) gene into elite quality protein maize inbred for combining high lysine, tryptophan and provitamin A in maize

“…Further, unbalanced protein in the diet leads to protein‐energy malnutrition (PEM) that affects more than a billion people worldwide (Tessema et al, ). High concentration of lysine and tryptophan enhances the quality of protein and helps in combating PEM (Tandzi, Mutengwa, Ngonkeu Eddy, Woin, & Gracen, ).…”

Response of Yellow Quality Protein Maize Inbred Lines to Drought stress at Seedling Stage

“…Moreover, QPM can be an economically valuable substitute for normal maize in stock feeds as it requires little or no supplementary protein source to balance feeds [4]. However, despite all the nutritional benefits associated with QPM, very little progress has been made towards breeding for tolerance to abiotic stress factors in QPM varieties [5].…”

Lysine Supply Is a Critical Factor in Achieving Sustainable Global Protein Economy

“…The use of such varieties would considerably improve the value of maize as a protein source, although it could still not match the value of animal protein or legumes. However, according to Tandzi et al (2017), the area of the global QPM production is 3.5 million hectares, which is only less that 2% of the production area of standard maize. One of the reason for the limited use of GPM is the lower yield compared to the standard maize.…”