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Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Microplot Design and Plant and Soil Sample Preparation for 15Nitrogen Analysis
Published on: May 10, 2020
Genetic improvement of nitrogen- and phosphorus-use efficiency in crops: Old goals with new aspirations
Wei Wang1, Da Chen1, Huwei Sun1
1Guangdong Basic Research Center of Excellence for Precise Breeding of Future Crops and Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Key Laboratory for Enhancing Resource Use Efficiency of Crops in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Breeding, College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
Abstract:
Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are indispensable macronutrients for crop growth and productivity; however, their excessive application in agriculture has caused severe environmental degradation. Enhancing crop N-use efficiency (NUE) and P-use efficiency (PUE) is a critical strategy to reconcile high productivity with sustainability. In this review, we systematically synthesize recent advances in the genetic basis of NUE and PUE in crops, focusing on key traits and their associated signaling networks. We summarize the identification of N/P-efficiency genes and explore how natural variations in these genes correlate with soil nutrient availability, revealing adaptive patterns from crop domestication. Given the distinct biogeochemical behaviors of N and P, we propose tailored strategies that leverage nutrient-specific traits to optimize environment-resource coordination and yield-quality balance. Finally, we discuss strategies for developing future crop cultivars with enhanced NUE or PUE to advance sustainable agriculture.
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