Genetic Modification in Vitamin-Rich Crop Biofortification
摘要
The technique of modifying an organisms’ genetic makeup by biotechnological methods is known as genetic modification. Genetic modification is a pivotal aspect of modern biotechnology that revolutionizes the manipulation of organisms’ genetic makeup for diverse purposes. Here, DNA is interfered with by adding, removing, or changing particular genes in order to produce desirable features or properties such as improved nutritional value. This chapter dives into the principles and applications of genetic modification across various crops. Beginning with an exploration of gene modification techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 and transgenesis, it elucidates how these methods enable precise modifications at the molecular level. Understanding genetic modification provides ample opportunities for innovation. Generally, it is possible to introduce genes encoding enzymes necessary for the production of vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, or vitamin E into crops like cassava, maize, or rice. This enhances the synthesis of vitamins in crops. Genes from one organism are injected into the genome of another using a process called transgenic technology. These genes allow the crop to produce larger levels of the desired vitamins in its tissues once they are integrated into the plants’ genome. Vitamin producing genes are inserted into the target crop through conventional plant breeding technique called Biofortification. Commonly Biofortification is used to improve crop quantity and quality, correcting micronutrient shortages, encouraging sustainable agriculture, lowering dependency on supplements, and customizing attributes to the local environment. This chapter aims to ensure all the favorable effects of implementation are realized while minimizing possible risks giving an in-depth analysis of scientific, ethical, and socioeconomic aspects.