Enhancing Photosynthetic Efficiency of Crops Through Metabolic Engineering and Nanoformulation

Abstract

Improvements in crop yields have been a challenge for breeders and biotech-nologists, as multiple attributes must be considered simultaneously for successful breeding. These attributes include morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular features. In addition, they are closely associ-ated with the photosynthetic efficiency of crops. In recent years, there has been tremendous advancement in studies on morphological, physiological, and biochemical attributes capable of improving photosynthetic efficiency through manipulation. However, there is limited information on the molecular processes that can similarly affect crops. Furthermore, the use of nanotech-nology for the improvement of crops has been scarcely studied. This chapter presents metabolic engineering as a molecular approach that enhances cell membrane thermostability and photosynthetic efficiency. We also consider nanoformulation as a growing nanotechnology approach. Nanoformulation involves using nanoparticles to deliver abiotic stress tolerance traits capable of improving photosynthetic efficiency. Finally, the analytical platforms used in the metabolic characterization of higher crops, which can be used to assess the metabolic profiles of nanoformulated crops, are discussed. This chapter provides molecular and nanotechnology crop-specific information to enable breeders and biotechnologists to breed successfully.