QTL mapping for controlling anthesis-silking interval based on RIL population in maize

Nitrogen (N) deficiency will severely affect many metabolic pathways and physiological progresses during maize ( Zea mays L.) growth and change of anthesis-silking interval (ASI) is one of the most serious consequences. To realize the genetic basis of ASI, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population consisting of 239 RILs, derived from the cross between Mo17 and Huangzao4, was used to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling ASI under different N environments. As a result, 6 QTLs were detected under high N environment on chromosome 3, 6, 7 and 8 and could explain total 53.67% of phenotypic variance. While, under low N environment, only 3 QTLs were identified on chromosome 6, 7 and 8, and they could account for total 31.87% of phenotypic variance. The two QTLs Qasihn6-1 and Qasihn3-1 , identified under high N environment, were quite near to their linked marker Phi077 and Bnlg197, respectively, with less than 1 cM of genetic distance. These results are beneficial for understanding the genetic basis of ASI in maize.