Using Seed Chipping to Genotype Maize Kernels

Abstract

Zea mays (maize) is an important model organism for studying monocot growth and development.Genotyping maize in the greenhouse or field can be time consuming and costly.Here, we describe a method to remove or chip a small amount of the endosperm from a maize kernel to genotype the kernel prior to planting.The seed chip is removed with a razor blade for DNA extraction and subsequent genotyping.When done correctly, seeds germinate normally and the kernel genotype can be determined before planting thus saving time, money, and field space.

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