Effects of light modulation on plant photosynthesis process and secondary metabolism

Light modulation on plants significantly affects photosynthetic process as well as plant primary and secondary metabolism. To date, four main light modulation ways have been investigated on plants: (i) monochromatic environments arranged with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) lamps; (ii) supplemental monochromatic light; (iii) partial light depletion; (iv) spectral shifting films. In the present work, the effect of monochromatic blue (B), red (R) and green (G) light on photosynthesis and secondary metabolism are reviewed. Studies on light modulation provide innovative solutions which allow to either maximize plant growth, thanks to the improvement of photosynthetic performances, or promote the accumulation of nutraceutical molecules in the prospective of a healthy diet.