A Novel Rust Resistance Gene in Maize Showing Overdominance

Abstract

The Rp8 rust resistance locus of maize is unique in that only Rp8-A/Rp8-B heterozygotes provide resistance and homozygotes are susceptible. A third allele, Rp8-C, provides no resistance in homozygotes or heterozygous combinations. Rp8 maps to the long arm of chromosome 6, near the restriction fragment length polymorphism marker umc21.