Evaluation of biochemical parameters and drought resistance in ZmDREB2A transgenic maize at the seedling stage

Abstract

DREB transcription factor group is related to responses of plants to abiotic stresses including drought. In this study, the ZmDREB2A transgenic maize lines at the seedling stage were evaluated for drought resistance and biochemical characteristics. The survival rate of ZmDREB2A lines were 2.5 times higher than wildtype plants in artificial drought tests. Morphological characteristics also showed the root length of ZmDREB2A lines were 21-28% higher than that of control groups, which indicates ZmDREB2A lines could suffer drought better. Moreover, the chlorophyll concentration of ZmDREB2A lines was 10% higher than the wildtype in drought condition. Other parameters such as proline and nonstructural carbohydrate accumulation of the transgenic lines were higher as compared to control groups.