Engineering autonomously luminescent plants using the fungal bioluminescence pathway

Abstract

Bioluminescence is a remarkable biological phenomenon observed across diverse taxa. Fungal bioluminescence, with the recent elucidation of the fungal bioluminescence pathway (FBP), enables the development of autonomous self-glowing plants through endogenous caffeic acid recycling; this plant-compatible mechanism overcomes critical limitations in sustainable implementation. We review the molecular basis of FBP and its optimization through metabolic engineering and protein optimization, which have collectively enhanced luminescence intensity by orders of magnitude. Current applications span from basic research to commercial bioluminescent plants, demonstrating successful integration of biotechnology with sustainable lighting solutions. Future implementations may revolutionize botanical applications through intelligent crop monitoring, urban illumination, and decorative horticulture. The FBP platform now stands as a transformative tool for noninvasive plant studies and agricultural innovation, marking a paradigm shift from fundamental discovery to practical application.