Abstract text: Abiotic stresses such as drought and heat induce structural and spatial changes in maize cell wall, that may determine stress tolerance. This study aims to characterize histological modifications in stem tissues associated with abiotic stress response.

Eight maize inbred lines previously classified as tolerant (A638, CO384, EPD6, EPD1) or susceptible (EP1, B73, EP42, PB130) have been evaluated under control and drought conditions in field experiments. Internode stem samples have been collected at key developmental stages: V9, flowering, 15 days after flowering, and 55 days after flowering. Cross-sections have been stained with FASGA and digitized using whole-slide microscopy scanners. Quantitative image analysis will assess tissue organization, vascular bundle distribution, cell wall thickness, and lignification patterns.

We hypothesize that tolerant lines display stress-induced structural adjustments trough plant development, such as modified lignin deposition and vascular organization, contributing to improved tissue integrity under adverse conditions. Identifying histological traits associated with tolerance may provide anatomical markers to optimize maize breeding programs aimed at improving resilience to climate-related stresses.