Metabolic engineering of lipids for crop resilience and nutritional improvements towards sustainable agriculture.

Metabolic engineering of lipids in crops presents a promising strategy to enhance resilience against environmental stressors while improving nutritional quality. By manipulating key enzymes in lipid metabolism, introducing novel genes, and utilizing genome editing technologies, researchers have improved crop tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, modified lipid pathways contribute to resistance against biotic stresses, including pathogen attacks and pest infestations. Engineering multiple stress-resistance traits through lipid metabolism offers a holistic approach to strengthening crop resilience amid changing environmental conditions. Beyond stress tolerance, lipid engineering enhances the nutritional profile of crops by increasing beneficial lipids such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. This dual approach not only improves crop yield and quality but also supports global food security by ensuring sustainable agricultural production. Integrating advanced biotechnological tools with a deeper understanding of lipid biology paves the way for developing resilient, nutrient-rich crops capable of withstanding climate change and feeding a growing population.