Backcrossing Modulates the Metabolic Profiles of Anthocyanin-Pigmented 'Vitamaize' Lines Derived from Elite Maize Lines.

Vitamaize lines (VMLs) were created by backcrossing the pigmented aleurone trait into Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (CIMMYT) maize lines (CMLs). This study evaluates metabolic differences between the VMLs and their original CMLs. Direct infusion mass spectrometry (DIMS) analyses, carotenoid profiling, total anthocyanins content (TAC) determination, and biochemical evaluation of the quality protein maize (QPM) endosperm trait allowed a comprehensive chemical characterization of the maize lines.