The maize genome has long lines of repetitive code and 50,000 to 60,000 genes to identify and characterise, twice that of humans Photo: Gavin Mills

A collaboration of researchers from academia and biotech corporations, led by Washington University (St Louis) researchers, has mapped out complex genomic sequence of maize, according to an associated press report.

The complexity of maize genomes arises from the structure of the DNA; there are 2.5 billion base pairs that make up the double helix of the DNA and the maize genome has long lines of repetitive code and 50,000 to 60,000 genes to identify and characterise (twice that of humans).  Furthermore, 50 percent of these genes are made up of transposons (jumping genes), which means that frequently the DNA structures and the functions of genes change and differ. The team also discovered several hundred new maize genes which are inherent in these plants only thus are responsible for unique traits of maize.

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Researchers have noted that the breakthrough in understanding the sequence map is essential to improving a crop as the genome is key into understanding how different areas of the plant work. This will allow researchers improve other cereals and grasses and ultimately, the genome could help scientists develop crops that; withstand global climate change, contain added nutritional value, boost yields and, appropriate more aerial carbon into the soil. 

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