Micronutrient Biofortification: A Dual Strategy for Provoking Plant Primary and Secondary Metabolism and Food Security

Dear Colleagues,

Micronutrients, including minerals (e.g., zinc, iron, and iodine) and essential vitamins (e.g., vitamin A), are crucial in various physiological functions, such as those of the immune system, cognitive development and improvement, and overall well-being. Deficits in these nutrients are associated with hidden hunger, which can have serious consequences for human health status. Unlike the visible signs of malnutrition resulting from a lack of calorie or protein intake, hidden hunger may not produce obvious physical symptoms. Moreover, micronutrients are essential for plant growth and optimum yield; for instance, zinc (Zn) is a critical cofactor for many enzymes involved in primary metabolism. Meanwhile, in secondary metabolism, Zn can impact the biosynthesis of beneficial compounds, including pigments and defense metabolites. Iron (Fe) is a central cofactor for enzymes involved in oxidation–reduction reactions in plant metabolism (e.g., peroxidase, catalase, ferredoxin, and iron–sulfur proteins). Moreover, Fe participates in the biosynthesis of various secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds and alkaloids. Iodine (I) is recognized as a beneficial nutrient for plant growth and development and can impact several physiological processes (e.g., photosynthesis, respiration, and carbohydrate metabolism). It may stimulate the production of secondary metabolites associated with antioxidant capacity and defense properties. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for humans and animals and can be beneficial for plants. Se enrichment can influence the biosynthesis of valuable metabolites involved in plant defense mechanisms. Overall, micronutrients regulate various metabolic pathways and are crucial for maintaining optimal plant growth, development, and stress responses.

In this Special Issue, we invite researchers with distinguished expertise in this area to contribute original research articles, short communications, and critical reviews. This will provide an extensive current level of knowledge on the advancements in the primary and secondary metabolism associated with micronutrient enrichment, including the role of micronutrient biofortification in (i) determining the crop’s nutritional and quality attributes and indices, (ii) improving and developing stress tolerance against various biotic and abiotic stress factors, (iii) inducing metabolic reprogramming by affecting secondary metabolite productions, (v) strengthening the medicinal significance and therapeutic properties of food crops, and (iv) assessing environmental sustainability and food security.

Prof. Dr. Karl H. Mühling
Dr. Muna Ali Abdalla
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• hidden hunger

• crop quality attributes and indices
• nutritive value of crops
• protein quality
• phytoremediation
• cereals
• pulses
• the Zn, Fe, and I homeostasis in plants and their crosstalk with other elements
• silicon (Si) biofortification
• selenium (Se) biofortification
• antagonistic and synergistic interplay
• agronomic biofortification
• transgenic approach
• seed priming
• primary metabolites
• secondary metabolites
• phytochemical constituents
• vitamins
• carotenoids
• polyphenolic compounds
• terpenoids
• essential oil
• antinutritional substances
• enhancement of crop stress defense mechanism