Wenzhong Huang

Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Tropical Animal and Plant Resources Research Center, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
Field Crop, 2024, Vol. 7, No. 2   
Received: 13 Jan., 2024    Accepted: 24 Feb., 2024    Published: 16 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in legumes is a critical process that significantly contributes to sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This study provides a comprehensive examination of the historical background, genetic mechanisms, symbiotic relationships, agricultural applications, and environmental impacts of nitrogen fixation in legumes. Key discoveries in legume nitrogen fixation and the evolution of symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) research are highlighted, along with the identification of essential genes and genetic pathways involved in SNF. Advances in genetic modification techniques aimed at enhancing nitrogen fixation are discussed. This study also explores the role of rhizobia in nodule formation, plant-microbe signaling, and the benefits of incorporating legumes into cropping systems. Case studies demonstrating successful agricultural implementations and the environmental benefits of BNF are presented, emphasizing the reduction in synthetic fertilizer use and improvements in soil health. A detailed analysis of a case study on genetic modification in soybeans is included, providing insights into future agricultural practices. This study concludes by addressing the challenges and limitations of current genetic and agronomic approaches, proposing potential solutions, and highlighting future research directions. The integration of emerging technologies in genetic engineering and microbiome manipulation, along with the prospects for transferring nitrogen-fixing capabilities to non-legume crops, are discussed. This study underscores the importance of continued research and development in enhancing nitrogen fixation for sustainable agriculture.

Biological nitrogen fixation; Legumes; Symbiotic nitrogen fixation; Genetic modification; Sustainable agriculture