Georgia Davis
Associate Professor of Plant Sciences
| E-mail: | davisge@missouri.edu |
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| Office Phone: | (573) 882-9224 | |
| Fax: | (573) 882-1469 | |
| Office: | 52 Agriculture Building | |
| Mailing Address: |
Plant Sciences
1-87 Agriculture Building University of Missouri-Columbia Columbia, MO 65211 |
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| Research Areas: |
Maize functional genomics. |
Research Description
We utilize genetic, genomic, and proteomic approaches to identify maize genes associated with various traits including Lepidopteran resistance, aflatoxin reduction, and drought stress in roots. We have identified a major QTL for reducing aflatoxin in maize. Aflatoxin is a secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus flavus. It is the most potent natural carcinogen. We are currently taking both a candidate gene and a genome screen approach to identify the gene responsible for the QTL. A defect in the chalcone synthase gene can lead to a 7-fold increase in toxin production. Chalcone synthase corresponds to one of our minor QTL. We are currently analyzing a variety of flavanoid compounds for their efficacy in reducing aflatoxin. In addition we are using proteomic and microarray strategies to identify the remaining QTL for aflatoxin reduction.
The Glossy15 gene is involved in juvenile adult transition in maize and regulates the epicuticular wax biosynthesis pathway. We have shown that this pathway is involved in resistance to Lepidopteran insects. We are currently characterizing the chemical consistuent of the wax that is responsible for the resistance.
Drought is a major limiting factor to crop production worldwide. It is a contributing factor in aflatoxin production. Through a collaboration with Dr. Robert Sharp, Dr. Henry Nguyen, Dr. Hans Bonhert, Dr. Daniel Schachtman, and Dr. Julia Gross we hope to identify agronomically important genes from maize roots that can mediate the effect of drought and genes that are responsible for signalling under drought stress.
