Applying biotechnology to design tree composition for value-added products: a mini-review

A major goal for forest biotechnology is the modulation of tree phenotypes for industrial applications. Such modulation is based on understanding the relationship between genotype and phenotype. Further, the capacity to control gene regulation and expression in a highly targeted manner is a critical component in new methods for achieving this targeted modulation. As such, biotechnology is vital to the continued improvement of existing forest products and the development of aspects of a viable bioeconomy. Such a bioeconomy will be based on differentiated value-added crops and animal breeds for food, feed and health. In a forestry context, novel uses of trees will potentially include traditional and advanced biofibre applications, bioremediation and products from biorefineries: for example, biodegradable plastics and feedstocks. To date biorefinery concepts have emphasised the production of lignin and polyphenolics that have considerable potential for the manufacture of high-value products. This paper discusses such developments and assesses the potential for biotechnology to address these complex questions