Whole-plant phenotypic engineering: moving beyond ratios for multi-objective optimization of nutrient use efficiency. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: York, Larry M; Griffiths, Marcus; Maaz, Tai McClellan
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in biotechnology. Volume 75(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 660.6
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102682
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0958-1669

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Interpreting NUE requires understanding of individual terms and its components. Uptake efficiency is not only determined by root traits as commonly assumed. An overlooked aspect of uptake efficiency is overall plant vigor. NUE needs synchrony between plant nutrient demand and the supply by the soil. Breeding gains require focusing on multiple underlying traits simultaneously. Abstract : Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) is typically measured as the ratio of yield to soil nutrient availability but ignores contributions of underlying plant traits. Relevant plant traits can be grouped as root acquisition efficiency, shoot radiation use efficiency, and plant metabolic efficiency. The intentional integration of these traits will lead to synergistic improvements of NUE. Recent progress in trait-focused research includes phenotyping root nutrient uptake rates and respiration, engineering reduced photorespiration, and identification of nutrient assimilation pathways. Traits need to be conceptualized in agricultural systems contexts to improve synchrony of plant demand and soil supply of nutrients, including consideration of crop mixtures. Use of simulation modeling and multi-objective optimization will allow accelerating NUE gains beyond selection for a single ratio.