Superior storage stability in low lipoxygenase maize varieties

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of absence of lipoxygenase isoenzymes (LOXs) on deteriorative changes in seeds of maize (Zea mays L.) using accelerated ageing. Three varieties of maize seeds, nongda high-oil 115 and zhengdan 94-2 with LOX-1, 2 and ZAF1 lacking LOX-1, 2, were stored at 42±1 °C and 84% r.h. for a period of 15 d. Standard germination, electrical conductivity, as well as malondialdehyde tests were used to follow changes during accelerated aging tests. The results indicated that germination of all tested seeds decreased with advanced ageing while electrical conductivity of the seed-soaking solution increased. Percentage germination was correlated with increased accumulation of malondialdehyde content. For the variety lacking LOX-1,2, there was a slight change in germination during the 15-d accelerated aging experiment, but for varieties with LOX-1, 2, a decline in germinability was observed, suggesting that LOX-1, 2, may be a definitive factor which influences seed lifespan.