From Ancestral Genomes to Modern Fields: Researching Corn’s Roots to Improve Nitrogen Efficiency

Holly, a first-year Ph.D. student at the University of Illinois, is studying how ancestral corn genetics could help today’s farmers grow more nitrogen-efficient crops.

With a background in genetics and genomics, Holly is part of a multi-university research project exploring how modern corn breeding may have unintentionally reduced traits that once helped plants retain nitrogen. Over generations of domestication, some of those nitrogen-retaining characteristics and the beneficial relationships between corn roots and soil microbes may have been lost.

Her research asks an important question: Can we reintroduce ancestral genetics into modern maize to restore those traits?

The team focuses on the maize microbiome — the community of microbes in the soil that interact with corn roots. Because soil microbes play a major role in breaking down fertilizer and influencing nitrogen loss through nitrate leaching and nitrous oxide emissions, improving how corn interacts with these microbes could help keep more nitrogen in the soil where plants can use it.

Currently, Holly is testing promising corn lines in controlled greenhouse settings. The team measures soil samples, nitrous oxide emissions, and examines how roots release compounds that influence microbial activity.

Supported as an IL Corn Fellow, Holly’s work is helping connect ancient corn genetics with modern sustainability goals working toward stronger yields and smarter nitrogen management for the future.