Advances in Molecular Techniques for Developing Drought-Tolerant Maize (Zea Mays L.)

Drought is one of the major limiting factors in maize (Zea mays L.) production, causing significant yield losses globally. Breeding for drought tolerance has been a key strategy in increasing maize yield in drought-prone areas. The use of molecular methods in maize breeding has facilitated the identification of genes and quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with drought tolerance. This review summarizes the progress made in using molecular methods to identify and utilize genetic improvements in drought-tolerant maize. It covers various molecular methods used in identifying drought tolerance genes and QTLs, and the application of these findings in marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS). The review also highlights the potential of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to improve drought tolerance in maize.