Molalign Assefa

Dr. Molalign Assefa

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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12 February 2026 in Archives of Microbiology
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
PDF file
ZUZujaja Umer
Zujaja Umer
YZYajie Zhao
Yajie Zhao
CZChao Zhou
Chao Zhou
Xiansheng ZhangXiansheng Zhang
Xiansheng Zhang
LMLina Ma
Lina Ma
YSYuanda Song
Yuanda Song

Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
MAMolalign Assefa
Molalign Assefa
YZYajie Zhao
Yajie Zhao
CZChao Zhou
Chao Zhou
YSYuanda Song
Yuanda Song
Xiansheng ZhangXiansheng Zhang
Xiansheng Zhang
Recent advances in molecular studies on plant lipids have revealed novel functions, increasing interest in their roles in plant metabolic processes and food functionality. With evolving living standards, the demand for crop-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) oil is increasing due to their benefits for cardiovascular health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite these benefits, there are gaps in comprehensive, integrated, and consolidated documents on recent advancements in crop biotechlogy, particularly concerning the biosynthesis of essential lipids. Such a document could provide valuable insights for researchers, breeders, and industry professionals seeking to enhance crop oil profiles and optimize the nutritional and functional qualities of plant-based foods. Therefore, this study aims to: (1) provide an updated review of crop lipid biosynthesis and (2) identify trending topics, key contributors, and institutions contributing to research on crop PUFAs, their health benefits, and genes associated with these functions. Methods: Systematic and mixed-method review approaches were used to gather the most recent evidence by identifying all relevant primary research studies on the specific review topic. Five databases were used in the process. Result and conclusion: 366 papers were identified, with 73 highly cited and recent ones focusing on crop PUFA biosynthesis and genetic engineering. Key genes involved in lipid biosynthesis include FAD, TMT, HGG, GhKAR, GhHAD, and transcription factors like MYB89, MYB96, WRI, LEC, GL2, FUS3, and HB2 all critical for enhancing PUFA biosynthesis. However, challenges such as poor transgene expression, reduced seed germination, and metabolic toxicity must be addressed to develop crops with improved oil profiles.

2 November 2024 in World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
PDF file
TNTahira Naz
Tahira Naz
MSMuhammad Tariq Saeed
Muhammad Tariq Saeed
SUSamee Ullah
Samee Ullah
YNYusuf Nazir
Yusuf Nazir
MAMolalign Assefa
Molalign Assefa
YSYuanda Song
Yuanda Song

1 April 2026 in Journal of Sustainable Agriculture and Environment
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
MAMolalign Assefa
Molalign Assefa
MSMohammed Tariq Saeed
Mohammed Tariq Saeed
TNTahira Naz
Tahira Naz
YFYoupeng Fan
Youpeng Fan
XZXiangyu Zhao
Xiangyu Zhao
YSYuanda Song
Yuanda Song
The overuse of synthetic pesticides in agriculture has raised significant environmental and health concerns. Biopesticides have emerged as viable, environmentally compatible alternatives. However, recent comprehensive reviews integrating all biopesticide categories and emphasizing their contribution to synthetic‐pesticide‐free and health‐safe products remain limited. This PRISMA‐based systematic review synthesizes 98 peer‐reviewed studies. It evaluates the main categories of biopesticides: microbial, biochemical, and plant‐incorporated protectants (PIPs), their roles in sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management (IPM), as well as the future trajectory of biopesticides. Microbial agents (bacteria, fungi, viruses) show strong target specificity and reduced environmental persistence. Biochemical pesticides, derived from plant extracts and pheromones, disrupt the behavior or physiology of pests with minimal non‐target toxicity. PIPs, developed through genetic engineering, provide crop‐embedded protection and greatly reduce chemical inputs. Despite these advantages, inconsistent field performance, short shelf life, regulatory hurdles, and low farmer awareness limit commercialization. Innovations such as RNA interference (RNAi), Nano‐formulations, and microbial consortia offer promising solutions. This review underscores the need for better delivery systems, harmonized regulations, and coordinated outreach to accelerate adoption. Overall, biopesticides are a scientifically robust and essential component of sustainable crop protection.