Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2025

Transient Expression in Nicotiana Benthamiana Leaves for Triterpene Production at a Preparative Scale
Published on: August 16, 2018
Vitamin E in Plants: Biosynthesis Pathways, Biofortification Strategies, and Regulatory Dynamics
Yanjiao Li1, Di Yang1, Yuqing Ren1
1Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
Abstract:
Vitamin E, mainly encompassing tocopherols and tocotrienols, is an essential antioxidant synthesized in the photosynthetic tissues of plants and photosynthetic bacteria, as well as in certain algae, yet dietary intake often falls short of recommended levels. Although synthetic supplements are available, natural vitamin E demonstrates higher bioavailability, creating a need for biofortification strategies to enrich crops with this nutrient. Recent advances in molecular genetics have elucidated key components of the vitamin E biosynthesis pathway, uncovering complex regulatory mechanisms and expanding opportunities for genetic enhancement. This review integrates current advances in vitamin E biosynthesis, novel gene discovery, diverse biofortification strategies, and insights into transporter-mediated regulation to enhance tocopherol and tocotrienol levels in staple crops. By aligning these advances, this review provides a framework to drive innovative biofortification efforts, positioning vitamin E enrichment as a sustainable solution for improved human and animal health.
Related Concept Videos
Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
Transgenic Plants
The first-ever transgenic plant was a tobacco plant developed in 1983 that showed resistance against the tobacco mosaic virus. Since then, many transgenic plants have been developed and commercialized for improving the agricultural, ornamental, and horticultural value of a crop plant. Transgenic...
Vitamins
Synthetic Biology
Golden rice
Golden rice is a genetically modified...
Overview of Metabolism
Plant Metabolism
Sunlight, the primary source of energy in plants, is first absorbed by the chlorophyll pigments present in their leaves. Plants then use this energy to carry out photosynthesis, where water is oxidized into oxygen and carbon dioxide...

