Chapter 2 - Molecular links between iron and zinc biofortification in rice

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiencies, including iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and vitamin A, are a significant global public health concern. More than half of preschool children and two-thirds of nonpregnant women of reproductive age around the world suffer from a lack of micronutrients. To tackle this issue, biofortification is a cost-effective approach that provides meaningful and sustainable means of delivering micronutrients through staple foods to populations with limited access to diverse diets and other nutritional interventions. Here we present an updated overview of the absorption, translocation, and storage of Fe and Zn in rice plants, as well as the biofortification approaches that have been considered to increase their concentrations in rice grains. The molecular links between iron and zinc biofortification in rice are also discussed.