Progress and Prospect in Transgenic Breeding of Cassava

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae, which is planted in over 100 countries. Its starchy roots and edible leaves provide food for 600 million people in world. The high starch content makes cassava a desirable raw material for starch and alcohol industry in China. With the widely use of cassava products, the research and input into its genetic improvement are increasing. In comparison to the traditional breeding method, transgenic breeding is a feasible and effective way for the genetic improvement of cassava varieties. We reviewed the progress on the transgenic technology application in cassava breeding genetic, such as reducing the total cyanide content of cassava roots, improving the tolerance of pest, disease, pathogen and herbicide, increasing the content of starch and protein in cassava tuber roots, and alleviating or retarding the post-harvest physiological deterioration of cassava roots. Meanwhile, the problems and future development prospects in cassava transgenic breeding were also discussed.