SH1-dependent maize seed development and starch synthesis via modulating carbohydrate flow and osmotic potential balance

BACKGROUND: As the main form of photoassimilates transported from vegetative tissues to the reproductive organs, sucrose and its degradation products are crucial for cell fate determination and development of maize kernels. Despite the relevance of sucrose synthase SH1 (shrunken 1)-mediated release of hexoses for kernel development, the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms are not yet well understood in maize (Zea mays). RESULTS: FW). As a direct source of starch synthesis, the decrease of Glc-1-P may cause a significant reduction in carbohydrates that flow to starch synthesis, ultimately contributing to the defects in starch granule development and reduction of starch content. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrated that SH1-mediated sucrose degradation is critical for maize kernel development and starch synthesis by regulating the flow of carbohydrates and maintaining the balance of osmotic potential.