International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 195-206 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 201 5.3 Case studies of successful commercialization efforts Several case studies highlight the successful commercialization of SynComs in CEA systems. For instance, a study on the application of root-associated SynComs in soybean demonstrated significant improvements in nutrient acquisition and yield under both nutrient-deficient and sufficient conditions. Field trials revealed that the application of SynComs led to yield increases of up to 36.1%, showcasing the potential of these microbial communities to enhance crop productivity in commercial settings (Wang et al., 2021) (Figure 3). Another example is the use of digital twin architectures in CEA systems to optimize productivity and resource use. By simulating crop growth and environmental conditions, digital twins can help fine-tune the application of SynComs, ensuring that they perform effectively under varying conditions (Chaux et al., 2021). These case studies underscore the importance of integrating advanced technologies and robust production methods to achieve successful commercialization of SynComs in CEA systems. Figure 3 Field application of SynComs in different sites (Adopted from Wang et al., 2021) Image caption: (A) Yield performance, bar = 10 cm; (B, D) Pod number; (C, E) Seed weight; Soybean plants with or without SynCom application were grown in field site II (A-C) and III (D, E); Different letters indicate significant differences among different treatments in Duncan′s multiple comparisons test; Among the three SynComs, SynCom1 exhibited the highest and most stable promotion effects on soybean yield, as reflected by increases of 43.4% and 32.1% in pod number, and 23.3% and 36.1% in seed weight at site II and site III, respectively, in comparison with uninoculated control plants (Adopted from Wang et al., 2021) 6 Regulatory and Safety Considerations 6.1 Regulatory frameworks governing the use of SynComs in agriculture The use of synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) in agriculture is subject to various regulatory frameworks that ensure their safe and effective application. Regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in Europe have established guidelines for the approval and monitoring of microbial inoculants. These frameworks typically require comprehensive risk assessments, including the evaluation of potential environmental impacts and human health risks associated with the release of SynComs into agricultural settings (Dsouza et al., 2021; Martins et al., 2023). Additionally, international standards such as those set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provide guidelines for the safe handling and application of microbial products in agriculture (Martins et al., 2023).
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