Epigenetic variation through the breeding processes of maize

The concurrent epigenetic changes during this period of remarkable improvement in maize grain yield remain unknown. Here, we performed MethylC-seq and RNA-seq on 4 related inbred lines with known pedigree information. Analysis of epigenetic changes over the course of historical maize breeding is a valuable new avenue in the exploration for crop improvement. These data lead us to suggest that novel epihaplotypes, in addition to DNA variation, are a substrate of selection during breeding, and that epigenetic variation between parents may also contribute to heterosis in hybrids.

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