Research Progress on RNAi Technology for Genetic Improvement of Maize

The research advances of transgenic maize mediated by RNAi in disease resistance, quality improvement and transgenic technology in recent years were summarized with the priority focused on virus gene expression blocked by RNAi to improve disease resistance. Silencing specific genes in metabolic pathways by RNAi has also been used to increase the amylose and amino acid synthesis, thus to improve the quality of maize. Transgenic maize mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens and particle gun was also discussed. RNAi technology opens new possibilities for genetic improvement of maize.