Recent Progress in the Genetic Engineering of Biofuel Crops

The utilization of biomass energy is increasingly considered as a promising means for the sustainable supply of energy and for long-term conservation of the global environment. In order to achieve the effective production of biomass-based energy, a key challenge will be the breeding of biofuel crops that enable high and stable biomass production. In this context, genetic engineering to optimize metabolism, create value-added biomass production, and enable environmental adaptability for growth on marginal land will be instrumental for establishing the next generation of biofuel crops. This review focuses on recent progress in the development of dedicated biofuel crops by means of genetic engineering, particularly switchgrass for lignocellulosic feedstock and jatropha and camelina for biodiesel feedstock.