Agronomic and transgenic approaches for rice Zn biofortification

In humans, zinc deficiency can affect a large number of populations and may cause decreased height, diarrhea, and pneumonia, and also result in higher infant mortality rates. Zn deficiency may appear due to the food produced in ïnfertile lands and also due to the consumption of low Zn foods. Cereal-based diets such as rice (O. sativa L.) are more likely to have micronutrient deficiencies. Present understanding shows that achieving high levels of Zn in rice grains will need a combination of complementary approaches, including transgenic, agronomic practices and breeding. To do that, we should have a deep understanding about Zn uptake, distribution within the plant and loading in developing seeds. This chapter covers the latest updates about the agronomic and transgenic approaches for Zn biofortification in rice which is one of the most important staple food crops of the world.