Biofortification Programs Research Articles

Variability assessment and screening of superior rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes for grain micronutrients and yield components

The present study was carried out to assess the genetic parameters and divergence in 38 rice genotypes for important yield and grain quality traits. Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) exceeded genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits taken for the study, while high heritability was recorded for all the traits, except kernel length to breadth ratio and grain iron content. The trait number of grains per panicle exhibited high heritability (91.00%) and high genetic advance as a percentage of mean suggesting simple selection may be followed to improve the traits. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into seven clusters. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters VII and IV (537.17). Five genotypes excelled in grain yield, ten genotypes for grain zinc content and one genotype for grain iron content over the check variety Rajendra Bhagwati. Despite high variability in grain zinc and iron content, no genotype surpassed the check variety for all three crucial attributes i.e. grain yield, grain zinc and iron content. The experimental material's variability for grain nutrient status suggests their potential use in biofortification programs. Keywords: Rice, biofortification, micronutrients, variability, genetic diversity, heritability

Foliar iodine application: a strategy for tomato biofortification and yield optimization

Iodine (I) is a beneficial micronutrient for crop plants and essential for human health, yet approximately two billion people worldwide suffer from I deficiency, resulting in significant health issues. Agricultural soils often lack sufficient I, resulting in crops with low I content. However, tomatoes have shown potential to accumulate I when supplemented externally, making them an ideal candidate for I biofortification, particularly as an alternative to iodized salt for individuals on low-sodium diets. This two-year greenhouse pot experiment evaluated the effectiveness of foliar application of potassium iodide (KI) in biofortifying two commercial tomato hybrids. Different concentrations of I (0, 1, 3, 6, and 9 mM/plant) were applied as foliar treatments to assess their effects on physiological parameters, yield attributes, and quality traits, especially I enrichment in tomato fruit. The results demonstrated that foliar application of KI significantly increased fruit I contents at concentrations that also promoted overall plant growth and development. These findings underscored the efficient translocation of I through the phloem in tomatoes. I enrichment in tomato fruits ranged up to 5.27 mg/kg, exceeding the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 150 μg/day. Even lower doses of 1–3 mM KI were effective in achieving significant I enrichment suitable for biofortification programs. In conclusion, tomato emerged as an excellent candidate for agronomic biofortification with I due to the practicality, and affordability of foliar application. The study highlights the potential of foliar I application as a feasible strategy for addressing global I deficiency, emphasizing its suitability for widespread adoption by farmers.

Genotype × Environment Interaction for Appraisal of Iron and Zinc Rich Stable Genotypes in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)

Background: Micronutrient malnutrition is a severe peril for wellbeing of humankind, which can be holistically addressed through genetic biofortification. Lentil, proclaim as poor man’s meat can hold a great promise in global biofortification programme. The present study was designed to appraise genetic variability for Fe and Zn content and elucidate the role of Genotype × Environment interaction for delimitation of micronutrient enriched stable lentil genotypes integrating HA-GGE biplot with REML/BLUP. Methods: Grain Fe and Zn content of 44 lentil genotypes grown at three different locations of West Bengal during two consecutive years were estimated for deciphering the G × E interaction combining HA-GGE and REML/BLUP. Result: Results revealed substantial genetic variability for Fe (48.07 to 107.45 mg kg-1) and Zn (38.72 to 60.07 mg kg-1) in 44 lentil genotypes with significant influence of environment and GE interaction. The present study precisely detected ILL-10123 and VL-156 as the ‘ideal’ genotypes for Fe and Zn content, respectively in addition to non-redundant testing location. Identified genotypes and testing location aid in global biofortification programme for upscaling micronutrient concentration in lentil.

Trace elements profiling of hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus L.): A rational screening of the breeding lines for biofortification programs

Trace element malnutrition is a global malaise and remains a concern for humanity. Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus L.), an underutilized legume vegetable, could be a suitable option to alleviate such malaise owing to its high content of trace elements. Our study aimed to evaluate phenotypic segregation of some pole-type hyacinth bean genotypes and their logical screening for specific biofortification programs (genetic or agronomic). We observed significantly (P <0.05) higher pod yields in 16/DOLP VAR 4 (344.19 q ha−1), 17/DOLP VAR 1 (283.47 q ha−1), 16/DOLP VAR 2 (280.19 q ha−1), and 16/DOLP VAR 1 (260.22 q ha−1) compared to others. Experimental results also revealed that yield was a function of pod weight and width. Although concentration of trace elements varied significantly (P <0.05) between the genotypes, 16/DOLP VAR 4 showed significantly (P <0.05) greater uptake of Zn (822.12 g ha−1), Fe (2240.28 g ha−1), and Cu (268.42 g ha−1). The relation between the trace elements was antagonistic in most genotypes for Mn and Cu (r = –0.34; P >0.05) followed by Zn and Fe (r = –0.25; P >0.05). Quadrant segregation, based on the relation between yield and uptake of trace elements, identified genotype BCDB 5 (low yield with less uptake potential) as suitable for agronomic biofortification (Zn and Fe) while 16/DOLP VAR 4 (high yield with greater uptake potential) for genetic biofortification (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu) program. Since agronomic biofortification offers a scope for additional enrichment of trace elements concentration (particularly Zn and Fe), we conclude that it may be necessitated as an immediate effort to promote the underutilized hyacinth bean in populations with the potential for higher consumption.

Potential of Cassava Clones for Iron, Zinc, and Selenium Biofortification

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a crucial staple food in South America, providing starchy storage roots that contribute to the sustenance of millions. To address deficiencies in iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se), a global initiative is underway to identify plant species and genotypes that naturally accumulate these nutrients for human consumption, such as cassava. In this way, this study aims to identify potential cassava genotypes for biofortification in Fe, Zn, and Se, while also improving the overall cassava yield. We evaluated the accumulation potential of Fe, Zn, and Se in 20 South American cassava genotypes under traditional growing conditions, concurrently examining their photosynthetic and growth characteristics. Cassava roots exhibited Zn content ranging from 3.20 to 8.56 mg kg−1, Fe content from 2.20 to 10.73 mg kg−1, and Se content from 1.20 to 9.43 µg kg−1 (expressed on a dry basis). Genotypes MS018, DG014, and DG839 emerged as promising candidates for biofortification programs, displaying elevated levels of Fe, Zn, and Se, coupled with superior photosynthetic capacity. These genotypes, recommended for biofortification programs, also demonstrated increased yield potential. The findings from this study contribute to the development of cassava genotypes with enhanced agronomic biofortification and elevated yield potential.

Genome-wide association and genomic prediction for iron and zinc concentration and iron bioavailability in a collection of yellow dry beans.

Dry bean is a nutrient-dense food targeted in biofortification programs to increase seed iron and zinc levels. The underlying assumption of breeding for higher mineral content is that enhanced iron and zinc levels will deliver health benefits to the consumers of these biofortified foods. This study characterized a diversity panel of 275 genotypes comprising the Yellow Bean Collection (YBC) for seed Fe and Zn concentration, Fe bioavailability (FeBio), and seed yield across 2years in two field locations. The genetic architecture of each trait was elucidated via genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and the efficacy of genomic prediction (GP) was assessed. Moreover, 82 yellow breeding lines were evaluated for seed Fe and Zn concentrations as well as seed yield, serving as a prediction set for GP models. Large phenotypic variability was identified in all traits evaluated, and variations of up to 2.8 and 13.7-fold were observed for Fe concentration and FeBio, respectively. Prediction accuracies in the YBC ranged from a low of 0.12 for Fe concentration, to a high of 0.72 for FeBio, and an accuracy improvement of 0.03 was observed when a QTN, identified through GWAS, was used as a fixed effect for FeBio. This study provides evidence of the lack of correlation between FeBio estimated in vitro and Fe concentration and highlights the potential of GP in accurately predicting FeBio in yellow beans, offering a cost-effective alternative to the traditional assessment of using Caco2 cell methodologies.

Genotype and ripening method affect carotenoid content and bio-accessibility in banana.

Bananas (Musa spp.) are a target crop for provitamin A carotenoids (pVACs) biofortification programs aiming at reducing the negative impact on health caused by vitamin A deficiency in vulnerable populations. However, studies to understand the effect of ripening methods and stages and the genotype on carotenoid content and bioaccessibility in the banana germplasm are scarce. This study evaluated carotenoid content and bioaccessibility in 27 different banana accessions at three maturation stages and two ripening methods (natural ripening and ethylene ripening). Across most accessions, total carotenoid content (TCC) increased from unripe to ripe fruit; only two accessions showed a marginal decrease. The ripening method affected carotenoid accumulation; 18 accessions had lower TCC when naturally ripened compared with the ethylene ripening group, while nine accessions showed higher TCC when ripened with exogenous ethylene, suggesting that treating bananas with exogenous ethylene might directly affect TCC accumulation, but the response is accession dependent. Additionally, carotenoid bioaccessibility varied across genotypes and was correlated with the amount of soluble starch and resistant starch. These findings highlight the importance of ripening methods and genotypes in maximizing banana carotenoid content and bioaccessibility, which could contribute to improving pVACs delivery in biofortification programs.

Agronomic biofortification with magnesium nanofertilizer and its effect on the nutritional quality of beans

Crop quality has been compromised due to nutrient deficiencies. The macronutrient magnesium (Mg) is essential; however, it has not been considered in agronomic fertilization programs, affecting human health. The objective of the study was to increase the Mg content in the fruits of green beans cv. ‘Strike’ by applying Mg-nanofertilizer, as well as evaluating its effect on growth, performance and nutritional quality, versus magnesium sulfate (MgSO4). The experiment was carried out under shade mesh conditions in Delicias, Chihuahua, Mexico during the period August-October 2022. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with two Mg sources: Mg nanofertilizer (NanoMg) and MgSO4 at doses of 50, 100 and 200 ppm and a control without application, forming seven treatments with six repetitions each. The results indicate that the maximum yield was provided by NanoMg and MgSO4 at 200 ppm, with values greater than 300%. The Mg distribution pattern for the NanoMg treatments presented the following concentration order: root&gt;leaf&gt;stem&gt;fruit; while, for the MgSO4 treatments it was: leaf&gt;root&gt;stem&gt;fruit. The most efficient treatment in increasing the Mg content in the fruit was NanoMg at 200 ppm, which achieved a biofortification of more than 120% with respect to the control. Therefore, when consuming 100 g of green beans cv. ‘Strike’ biofortified by NanoMg, the recommended daily needs of the human being could be satisfied. Finally, it is concluded that nanofertilizers are the best option for a biofortification program since they offer a sustainable alternative by increasing productivity and quality in green bean fruits.

Low expression of lipoxygenase 3 (LOX3) enhances the retention of kernel tocopherols in maize during storage.

Deficiency of vitamin E results in several neurological and age-related disorders in humans. Utilization of maize mutants with favourable vte4-allele led to the development of several α-tocopherol (vitamin E) rich (16-19µg/g) maize hybrids worldwide. However, the degradation of tocopherols during post-harvest storage substantially affects the efficacy of these genotypes. We studied the role of lipoxygenase enzyme and Lipoxygenase 3 (LOX3) gene on the degradation of tocopherols at monthly intervals under traditional storage up to six months in two vte4-based contrasting-tocopherol retention maize inbreds viz. HKI323-PVE and HKI193-1-PVE. The analysis revealed significant degradation of tocopherols across storage intervals in both the inbreds. Lower retention of α-tocopherol was noticed in HKI193-1-PVE. HKI323-PVE with the higher retention of α-tocopherol showed lower lipoxygenase activity throughout the storage intervals. LOX3 gene expression was higher (~ 1.5-fold) in HKI193-1-PVE compared to HKI323-PVE across the storage intervals. Both lipoxygenase activity and LOX3 expression peaked at 120 days after storage (DAS) in both genotypes. Further, a similar trend was observed for LOX3 expression and lipoxygenase activity. The α-tocopherol exhibited a significantly negative correlation with lipoxygenase enzyme and expression of LOX3 across the storage intervals. HKI323-PVE with high tocopherol retention, low -lipoxygenase activity, and -LOX3 gene expression can act as a potential donor in the vitamin E biofortification program. Protein-protein association network analysis also indicated the independent effect of vte4 and LOX genes. This is the first comprehensive report analyzing the expression of the LOX3 gene and deciphering its vital role in the retention of α-tocopherol in biofortified maize varieties under traditional storage.

Composition of methionine and association with lysine and tryptophan in subtropically adapted maize breeding lines

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesMaize protein lacks essential amino acids such as methionine, lysine, and tryptophan. Limited information exists on the composition and variation of kernel methionine. This study assessed methionine variability and its relationship with lysine and tryptophan in 48 maize inbreds at three locations.FindingsAnalysis of variance revealed significant variations for kernel methionine (0.031%–0.305%), lysine (0.118%–0.389%), and tryptophan (0.014%–0.090%). CML591 (0.305%), CML596 (0.286%), and CML421 (0.284%) showed the highest methionine content. The average methionine contents were comparable in quality protein maize (0.156%) and normal (0.150%) lines. Methionine showed no correlation with lysine (r = 0.001) and tryptophan (r = 0.032), while lysine and tryptophan showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.740). CML165 (methionine: 0.272%, lysine: 0.320%, and tryptophan: 0.090%), CML186 (methionine: 0.254%, lysine: 0.389%, and tryptophan: 0.083%), and HKI163 (methionine: 0.252%, lysine: 0.331%, and tryptophan: 0.084%) were promising genotypes considering all three amino acids.ConclusionsMultilocation experiment revealed genetic variation in methionine, lysine, and tryptophan among the 48 inbreds. No negative correlation between the amino acids indicates the possibility of developing cultivars high in methionine, lysine, and tryptophan.Significance and NoveltyIdentified nutrient‐rich inbreds will serve as valuable germplasm in maize biofortification programs. This is the first report on methionine variability and its relationship with lysine and tryptophan in subtropical maize.

Influence of storage duration on retention of kernel tocopherols in vte4-based biofortified maize genotypes

The degradation of tocopherols during post-harvest storage poses a challenge to their efficacy in addressing vitamin E deficiency (VED), a problem faced by humans. Here, a diverse panel of vte4 gene-based inbreds along with their wild-type genotypes was analyzed to study genetic variation for retention of tocopherols during conventional storage (temperature: 25–30 °C and humidity: 42–82%) for six months. vte4-based inbreds possessed 2-fold higher tocopherol fractions over normal inbreds immediately after harvest [0 days after storage (DAS)]. High genetic variation for retention of tocopherol fractions viz. α-tocopherol (17.20–45.44%), γ-tocopherol (30.46–44.03%), and δ-tocopherol (20.51–33.87%) was observed after six months of storage (180 DAS) among vte4-based inbreds, whereas, normal inbreds possessed comparatively low genetic variation [α-tocopherol (8.54–12.29%), γ-tocopherol (23.74–27.48%) and δ-tocopherol (15.88–23.68%)]. A major fraction of α-tocopherol, and δ-tocopherol was lost during the last three months of storage (3rd month: 31.00% loss, 6th month: 75.22%), meanwhile, γ-tocopherol showed comparatively slower degradation (3rd month: 31.62% loss, 6th month: 65.56% loss). HKI323-PVE (45.44%), HKI1105-PVE (24.08%), HKI161-PVE (23.17%) and HKI1128-PVE (22.73%) were the promising maize inbreds with higher retention of α-tocopherol at 180 DAS. These potential inbreds can be effectively used as valuable genetic resources in the biofortification programme, and the contrasting genotypes distinctly differing for retention of tocopherols can be used to map the loci for higher retention of tocopherols.

A Promising Approach for Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies and Enhancing Nutritional Quality in Food Crops through Biofortification

Biofortification is a promising agricultural approach for addressing micronutrient shortages and increasing the nutritional content of food crops. Micronutrient deficiencies, also known as "hidden hunger," continue to affect many people around the world, particularly in underdeveloped countries. This presentation emphasises the need of biofortification in solving this worldwide health issue. Biofortification tries to improve the level of important micronutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, and iodine in edible plant portions by using traditional breeding techniques or current biotechnological procedures. Iron-fortified beans, zinc-enhanced rice, vitamin A-rich sweet potatoes, and iodine-enriched crops are all examples of successful biofortified crops. To maximise their impact, biofortification programmes must be integrated with nutrition education and agronomic practises, according to the abstract. Governments, research institutes, non-governmental organisations, and the commercial sector must work together to scale up biofortification activities and build healthier, more resilient communities around the world.

Enchanting Insights and Exploring the Relevance of the Magic Population in Advancing Cereal Crop Improvement

Multiparent Advanced Generation Inter-cross Populations (MAGIC) populations are portrayed as inbred recombinant sets that were created by inter-crossing certain numerous parents. However it takes a lot of work to produce MAGIC populations but Its more effective approach for detecting QTL’s (Quantitative Trait Loci) when we involves MAGIC populations. The availability of more genetic variety in the germplasms due to various founder lines is one of the main benefits of employing a MAGIC population. In order to identify QTL’s for crop improvement under biotic and abiotic stress conditions, MAGIC populations were developed for the indica and japonica rice cultivars as well as MAGIC plus and Global MAGIC populations. Also the employment of MAGIC populations for the improvement of rice grain size also improves the yield and quality aspects of rice. Utilization of rice MAGIC plus populations for the improvement of nutrient profile of rice which is prime important in the biofortification program of rice as a goal of united nations. Where the utilization of association mapping and MAGIC populations in maize crop for improving saccharification efficiency results in higher biofuel production. Various institutes and universities are involved in production of MAGIC populations in respective specialised crops. This article gives the idea of MAGIC populations and their applications in different and diverse applications for the ultimate benefit of yield improvement.

Role of socio-economic research in developing, delivering and scaling new crop varieties: the case of staple crop biofortification.

The CGIAR biofortification program, HarvestPlus, was founded with the aim of improving the quality of diets through micronutrient-dense varieties of staple food crops. Implemented in four phases - discovery, development, delivery and scaling - the program was designed to be interdisciplinary, with plant breeding R&D supported by nutrition and socio-economic research. This paper explains the need, use and usefulness of socio-economic research in each phase of the program. Ex ante and ex post benefit-cost analyses facilitated fundraising for initial biofortification R&D and implementation in each subsequent phase, as well as encouraged other public, private, and civil society and non-governmental organizations to take on and mainstream biofortification in their crop R&D, policies, and programs. Socio-economics research helped guide plant breeding by identifying priority micronutrient- crop- geography combinations for maximum impact. Health impacts of biofortification could be projected both by using empirical results obtained through randomized controlled bioefficacy trials conducted by nutritionists, and through farmer-adoption models estimating impact at scale. Farmer and consumer surveys and monitoring systems provided the underlying information for estimating farmer adoption models and helped understand input/output markets, farmer and consumer preferences, and additional opportunities and challenges -all of which informed crop breeding and delivery activities, while building the knowledge base for catalyzing the scaling of biofortification.

Onion Biofortification Using Selenium Bionanofertilizer and its Bulk Source under Sandy Soil Conditions

Human health depends on the daily supply of fresh vegetables and fruits, which contain the essential, nutrients, vitamins and other bioactive compounds. Due to malnutrition in several places all over the world, the biofortification approach is a crucial solution to overcome this global problem. In the current study, the biological nanofertilizer of selenium (nano-Se) was tested on onion crop comparing with its bulk source under the sandy soil conditions. the applied doses of nano-Se were 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg L−1 in both nano and mineral form of Se. The main investigated parameters of onion were the vegetative growth parameters and the nutritional status in leaves and bulbs. The obtained results have a significant difference between mineral and nano-Se doses for studied measurements. In general, all studied parameters increased in their values with increasing the applied doses from both Se sources up to 30 or 40 mg L−1 compared to the control, depending on the selected parameter. This increase reached to more than 60% (for applied nano-Se on bulb dry weight), or more than 55% for the same parameter after applying mineral Se source. Applying nano Se was achieved higher values in some studied parameters of onion, whereas the mineral form of Se was domain for others. This study confirmed that both Se forms can be applied for biofortification of onion because the Se content in bulb located in the accepted level of Se in crop with priority to nano-Se, which accumulate in leaves and bulb in a lower concentration compared to mineral form. This work opened more question about the nano-biofortification and the possibility to apply for more studied crops with focus on the suitable added dose to be safe for successful biofortification program.

Nutritional and nutraceutical potential of rice bean (Vigna umbellata) -a legume with hidden potential.

In the recent years there has been paradigm shift in global agriculture for the exploration of different underutilized crops as future potential crops. Rice bean [Vigna umbellata (Thunb.) Ohwi and Ohashi] one of the lesser known pulses among Vigna species has gained attention during last decade as food and nutritional security crop. Rice bean seeds are well-balanced source of beneficial constituents such as protein, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and anti-oxidants for health benefits and combating malnourishment in human. In the present investigation, seeds of 15 diverse rice bean accessions from north-western Himalayan region were analyzed for nutrients, anti-nutrients and nutraceutical traits. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for different traits. The rice bean genotypes revealed variation for major quality traits including total carbohydrates (50.56-56.87%), crude protein content (22.56-25.97%) and lipid content (1.87 to 3.17%) with the higher proportion of linolenic acid followed by linoleic acid which are nutritionally desirable PUFAs. The genotype IC-548758 revealed higher proportion of desirable quality traits. Among protein fractions, globulins and albumins constituted major seed storage protein fraction in rice bean seeds. The wide range variation was also observed for anti-nutrients like including raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs), phenolics, tannins, trypsin inhibitor (TI), phytic acid, lipoxygenase activity and saponin content among genotypes. Insignificant correlation among iron, zinc, magnesium and manganese revealed good selection accuracy for genetic biofortification program in rice bean. In summary, the genotype IC-548757, IC-548760 and IC-548770 revealed lower proportion of anti-nutrients, whereas, the genotype IC-548759 and IC-548757 revealed higher level of free radical scavenging activity indicating nutritional and nutraceutical superiority of these genotypes. Overall, the study revealed nutritional superiority of genotype IC-548770, IC-548758 and IC-548760 with balanced proportions of nutrients and anti-nutrients. Rice bean legume has the potential to support more sustainable and resilient food and nutritional security in future. Our study highlights the potential of different rice bean genotypes as functional ingredients for future food and nutritional security programmes.

Household-Level Coverage of Iron-Biofortified Beans in the Northern Province of Rwanda

BackgroundBiofortification, the process of enhancing the micronutrient content of staple crops, is a nutrition-sensitive agricultural intervention with the potential to increase micronutrient intakes and improve health outcomes, especially among vulnerable populations. Although data are available on the number of farming households that grow biofortified crops, information on the coverage of biofortified foods in the general population is limited. Such information is critical to assess the performance of biofortification programs and guide decisions related to program implementation while ascertaining progress toward achieving expected impacts. ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the household coverage of iron-biofortified beans (IBBs) in rural areas of the Northern Province of Rwanda. MethodsWe applied methods previously used to assess coverage in large-scale food fortification programs to develop coverage indicators for IBBs. These indicators were 1) consumption of beans in any form; 2) awareness of IBBs; 3) availability of IBBs; 4) consumption of IBBs (ever); and 5) consumption of IBBs (current). ResultsOf the 535 households surveyed, 98% consumed beans in any form and 79% were aware of IBBs. Among the 321 households that provided bean samples, only 40% of the samples were biofortified (as determined by a breeding specialist) and only 21% of respondents were able to correctly identify IBBs. Although 52% of households reported to be ever consuming biofortified beans, only 10% of households were currently consuming these beans. ConclusionsDespite relatively high awareness of IBBs among surveyed households, a few households currently consume IBBs, highlighting the need to explore strategies to promote consumption. More research is also required to investigate factors hindering the consumption of IBBs.

Accumulation Capacity of Nickel and Zinc in Yerba Mate Cultivated in Soils with Contrasting Parent Materials.

Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hill.) has shown a relatively high capacity for micronutrient absorption and could be a candidate for biofortification and combating a lack of micronutrients. To further evaluate the accumulation capacity of Ni and Zn, yerba mate clonal seedlings were grown in containers under five rates of Ni or Zn (0, 0.5, 2, 10, and 40mgkg-1) with three soils originating from different parent material (basalt, rhyodacite, and sandstone). After 10months, plants were harvested, divided into component parts (leaves, branches, and roots), and evaluated for 12 elements. The use of Zn and Ni enhanced seedling growth under rhyodacite- and sandstone-derived soils at the first application rate. Application of Zn and Ni resulted in linear increases based on Mehlich I extractions; recovery of Ni was smaller than Zn. Root Ni concentration increased from approximately 20 to 1000mgkg-1 in rhyodacite-derived soil and from 20 to 400mgkg-1 in basalt- and sandstone-derived soils; respective increases in leaf tissue were ~ 3 to 15mgkg-1 and 3 to 10mgkg-1. For Zn, the maximum obtained values were close to 2000, 1000, and 800mgkg-1 for roots, leaves, and branches for rhyodacite-derived soils, respectively. Corresponding values for basalt- and sandstone-derived soils were 500, 400, and 300mgkg-1, respectively. Although yerba mate is not a hyperaccumulator, this species has a relatively high capacity to accumulate Ni and Zn in young tissue with the highest accumulation occurring in roots. Yerba mate showed high potential to be used in biofortification programs for Zn.

Iron and zinc biofortification and bioaccessibility in carrot ‘Dordogne’: Comparison between foliar applications of chelate and sulphate forms

Hidden hunger is a worldwide problem, with iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiency being the most common causes of mineral deficiency. Vegetable biofortification is an effective strategy to fight mineral deficiency, especially when commonly consumed vegetables are utilized, as in the case of carrots. This biofortification study aimed to investigate the response of the off-season carrot cv. Dordogne to different forms of foliar applications of Fe and Zn. The crop received four applications of both minerals, either in the form of inorganic salt (FeSO4 and ZnSO4) or chelated forms (Fe-DTPA and Zn-EDTA), at a concentration of 6 mM of these elements. FeSO4 was efficient in increasing the Fe concentration in carrots (by 52%), while Fe-DTPA caused no significant differences. Regarding Zn, both forms were effective in the biofortification, but Zn-EDTA proved to be more efficient in increasing root Zn concentration (+94%) than ZnSO4 (+57%). Bioaccessibility data, measured after in vitro digestion, showed that biofortified carrots with the chelated forms retained a full bioaccessibility of the minerals (around 100% as in control carrots). However, the sulfate-biofortified carrots showed reduced bioaccessibility values (60% and 80% for Fe and Zn, respectively). The results also showed an increase in dry matter, total nitrogen content and antioxidant activity in plants treated with Zn-EDTA. This trend paralleled the increase of polyphenols and total carotenoids content, suggesting the overall benefit of biofortification strategies conducted in the field. In conclusion, our study revealed that chelated forms of both minerals are preferable in the biofortification programs of carrots.

Folate Biofortification in Soybean: Challenges and Prospects

Folate deficiency is a significant global health issue that affects millions of people and causes severe adverse effects. Major staple crops, which provide significant amounts of calories, often contain inadequate folate levels. Synthetic fortification has contributed to a reduction in low-folate populations, but a more sustainable solution is needed. Biofortification, or the breeding of crops to naturally increase their nutrient content, is a promising alternative. Soybean is a highly nutritious crop and a good candidate for folate biofortification. However, studies on folate have been limited due to the challenges in folate analysis. The development of sensitive and selective tools, reference materials, and studies on the stability of folate vitamers in crops has facilitated the development of improved folate determination methods. Additionally, the soybean folate biofortification program can be improved by leveraging previous studies in major cereals, common bean and pea, as well as combining conventional breeding with new genomics approaches. In this review, we discuss the folate content, composition, and analytical challenges in soybean and suggest possible frameworks and strategies for folate biofortification in soybean. We also conducted an in silico analysis of key folate biosynthesis enzymes in soybean.