DIFFUSE, A PATTERN GENE IN ZEA MAYS

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Abstract
Diffuse (Df) is a dominant gene in maize which partially inhibits pigmentation in pericarp and cob. Its maximum expression is attained in combination with PRR, self red pericarp and cob, to which it is epistatic. Manifestation of the Df effect is correspondingly reduced in plants carrying P alleles lower in the dominance series, such as PWR and PVV, which limit the distribution of pigment. The inhibitory action of Df varies locally over the ear from complete suppression of pigmentation to no detectable effect, and thus results in a highly irregular pattern. The transition from a colored and to a colorless pericarp area usually is gradual. The Df gene was found in two stocks of Peruvian origin. It has not been encountered in numerous other strains under observation, and probably is rare. The Df gene gives about 5.0 percent recombination with translocation 2-4b which serves to mark chromosome 2. at L.88 and chromosome 4 at L.54. The results of tests against other translations involving these two chromosomes point to the distal portion oi the long arm of chromosome 2 or the long arm of chromosome 4 as the site of the Df locus. Kernels from a relatively large patch which is colorless or near-colorless as the result of Df action give the same kind of progeny as typical dark diffuse kernels from the same ear. This fact shows that these light colored areas do not result from mutation of the Df gene, but are pattern effects.

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