Analysis of amylose accumulation during seed development in maize.

Starch, which includes amylose and amylopectin, is the most important component in maize (Zea mays L.) seeds. The accumulation of amylose in maize seeds was examined in this study. The percentage of amylose content gradually increased in seeds from day 10 to day 25 after pollination, which is consistent with the changes of GBSS activity. The transcripts of GBSSI were detected in both the endosperm and embryo of wild-type maize. However, its transcripts, GBSS activity, and amylose were not detected in either the endosperm or embryo of waxy maize. These results indicate that the accumulation of amylose is controlled by GBSSI expression in the seeds of maize.