In situ analyses of inorganic nutrient distribution in sweetcorn and maize kernels using synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Understanding the spatial distribution of inorganic nutrients within edible parts of plant products helps biofortification efforts to identify and focus on specific uptake pathways and storage mechanisms.

Methods

Kernels of sweetcorn (Zea mays) variety 'High zeaxanthin 103146' and maize inbred line 'Thai Floury 2' were harvested at two different maturity stages, and the distributions of K, P, S, Ca, Zn, Fe and Mn were examined in situ using synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

Key results

The distribution of inorganic nutrients was largely similar between maize and sweetcorn, but differed markedly depending upon the maturity stage after further embryonic development. The micronutrients Zn, Fe and Mn accumulated primarily in the scutellu

SUBMITTER: Cheah ZX 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6377104 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature