Differential expression of leaf proteome of tolerant and susceptible maize (Zea mays L.) genotype in response to multiple abiotic stresses.

In the present work, tropical maize genotypes were evaluated against the combined stresses (drought x low-N, and waterlogging x low-N) that were set to 30 days old maize seedlings concurrently. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) was used to examine the protein changes induced by combined stresses, in leaves, of tolerant and susceptible genotypes. Moreover, some physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed, to understand the physiological status of tolerant and susceptible genotypes under combined stresses. Analysis of protein expression patterns of tolerant genotype, revealed that up-regulated proteins species contributed in maintaining acclimated state and restoring of plant growth and development even under stress. Alternatively, in susceptible genotype, the up-regulated proteins are mainly involved in activation of defense response against the pathogen, and effort to maintain the energy metabolism, and alleviate the genotype to survive under multiple stress condition. We concluded that depending on the given stress treatment, tolerant and susceptible differed in stress enduring approaches. Therefore, studies gave the insight to comprehend the response of tolerant and susceptible genotypes under combined stress, which could be valuable for further research and will substantiate to be advantageous, in selecting tolerant genotypes for combined stresses.