J Integr Plant Biol.

• Mini Review •    

Plant synthetic biology-based biofortification, strategies and recent progresses

Kai Wang1,2* and Zhongchi liu1,2*   

  1. 1. Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen 518107, China
    2. Institute of Emerging Agricultural Technology, Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen 518107, China

    *Correspondences: Zhongchi liu (zc.liu2@siat.ac.cn); Kai Wang (wangkai@suat-sz.edu.cn, Dr. Wang is fully responsible for the distribution of all materials associated with this article)
  • Received:2025-03-31 Accepted:2025-04-27 Online:2025-05-16
  • Supported by:

    This research was financially supported by a startup fund from the Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology.

Abstract: Hidden hunger, caused by chronic micronutrient deficiencies, affects billions of people worldwide and remains a critical public health issue despite progress in food production. Biofortification offers a promising solution by enhancing nutrient levels within plant tissues through traditional breeding or advanced biotechnologies. Recent advancements in plant synthetic biology have significantly improved biofortification strategies, enabling precise and targeted nutrient enrichment. This mini-review outlines five core strategies in synthetic biology-based biofortification: overexpression of endogenous biosynthetic genes, introduction of heterologous biosynthetic pathways, expression of nutrient-specific transporters, optimization of transcriptional regulation, and protein (directed) evolution. Vitamin B1 biofortification serves as a primary illustrative example due to its historical importance and ongoing relevance. Recent breakthroughs, particularly from Chinese research teams, are also highlighted. Together, these strategies offer transformative potential for addressing global nutritional challenges through precise, sustainable and innovative plant-based approaches.

Key words: biofortification, CRISPR/Cas, hidden hunger, plant synthetic biology, vitamin B1

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