Genetic engineering and molecular strategies for nutrient manipulation in plants

Abstract

Plants require an adequate balance of mineral nutrients in each stage of development to achieve maximum yield. Deficiencies of mineral nutrients are common in crops worldwide. To solve this problem in modern agriculture, the fertilizer applications are necessary, but this practice may be associated with undesirable environmental impacts as well as the high cost of fertilizers. However, improving nutrient use efficiency (NUE) via genetic manipulation may result in increased plant capacity to capture and utilize nutrients. In this chapter, we presented the advances made through genetic engineering and molecular strategies in a range of plant species aimed at enhancing uptake, translocation, and remobilization of nutrients as a sustainable way to increase crop productivity and quality.