Harnessing Genetic Tools for Sustainable Bioenergy: A Review of Sugarcane Biotechnology in Biofuel Production

Kashif Ahmad and Ray Ming ()
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Kashif Ahmad: Key Laboratory of Genetics, Breeding and Multiple Utilization of Crops, Ministry of Education, College of Agriculture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
Ray Ming: Center for Genomics and Biotechnology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China

Agriculture, 2024, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-22

Abstract: Sugarcane ( Saccharum spp.) is a prominent renewable biomass source valued for its potential in sustainable and efficient second-generation biofuel production. This review aims to assess the genetic enhancement potential of sugarcane, emphasizing the use of advanced genetic engineering tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9, to improve traits crucial for biomass yield and biofuel production. The methodology of this review involved a thorough analysis of the recent literature, focusing on the advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnological applications pertinent to sugarcane. The findings reveal that CRISPR-Cas9 technology is particularly effective in enhancing the genetic traits of sugarcane, which are essential for biofuel production. Implementing these genomic tools has shown a significant rise in biomass output and, ultimately, the effectiveness of bioethanol manufacturing, establishing sugarcane as a feasible and reliable source of biofuel implications of these advancements extend. These advancements have a profound impact not only on agricultural productivity but also on enhancing the efficiency and scalability of the bioethanol industry. Developing superior sugarcane varieties is expected to boost economic returns and advance environmental sustainability through carbon-neutral biofuel alternatives. This review underscores the transformative role of genetic engineering in revolutionizing sugarcane as a bioenergy crop. The evolution of genetic engineering tools and methodologies is crucial for tapping into the full potential of sugarcane, and thereby supporting global efforts towards sustainable energy solutions. Future research should focus on refining these biotechnological tools to meet increasing energy demands sustainably, ensure food security, and mitigate negative environmental impacts.

Keywords: bioethanol production; CRISPR-Cas9; genetic improvement; lignocellulosic biomass; sugarcane biotechnology (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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