Phosphate dynamics: From plant physiology to human health and environmental impact

Abstract

The phosphate cycle, which involves the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, significantly affects its availability to plants. Factors such as soil characteristics, microbial activity, and agricultural practices are critical, emphasizing the need for optimizing phosphorus use in agriculture for sustainable crop production. Due to limited phosphorus availability in soils, phosphate fertilizers are often necessary. This review paper discusses the inefficiency of phosphorus utilization in plants and environmental concerns related to runoff, exploring physiological, genetic, and biotechnological approaches to enhance phosphorus utilization efficiency (PUE), including root architecture changes, symbiotic relationships, gene manipulation, and innovative biotechnological interventions. Additionally, it explores the role of phosphates in food technology, detailing their applications in improving food quality, safety, and nutritional value, as well as addressing regulatory aspects and potential health implications associated with phosphate use in food products.