Nitrogen fixation and mucilage production on maize aerial roots is controlled by aerial root development and border cell functions

Transcriptome analysis on aerial roots at two different growth stages before and after mucilage production confirmed the expression of genes involved in polysaccharide synthesis and degradation. Genes related to nitrogen uptake and assimilation were up-regulated upon water exposure. Sierra Mixe and B73 maize growing in a high ceiling room (14/10h light/dark cycles and 25/17º C and 85%/90% relative humidity) were subject to rain events twice a week to trigger mucilage production. Stage 1 Sierra Mixe aerial roots, stage 2 Sierra Mixe aerial roots, and stage 1 B73 aerial roots were collected before a rain event and then 2 and 24 hours after a rain event.