Improving photosynthesis in agricultural environments

There has been much recent interest in improving photosynthesis to increase crop yields. Here we evaluate strategies for increasing photosynthesis, focusing mainly on Triticum aestivum (bread wheat). We conclude that photosynthetic improvement needs to be viewed within a context of balancing feedbacks and resources (water, nitrogen) in an agricultural system with strategies required to best manage the source–sink dynamic during reproductive development to maximize radiation use efficiency (RUE). New genetic resources provide promise; genetic modifications (GM) of photosynthesis have not been sufficiently tested in field conditions. Trehalose 6-phosphate (T6P) chemical intervention increases photosynthesis and yield by activating grain filling sink strength. Technologies and breeding strategies that improve source and sink together currently provide the best prospects for improving crop photosynthesis and yield.