Potassium and phosphorus transport and signaling in plants

Nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) are essential macronutrients for plant growth and development, and their availability affects crop yield. Compared with N, the relatively low availability of K and P in soils limits crop production and thus threatens food security and agricultural sustainability. Improvement of plant nutrient utilization efficiency provides a potential route to overcome the effects of K and P deficiencies. Investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying how plants sense, absorb, transport, and use K and P is an important prerequisite to improve crop nutrient utilization efficiency. In this review, we summarize current understanding of K and P transport and signaling in plants, mainly taking Arabidopsis thaliana and rice (Oryza sativa) as examples. We also discuss the mechanisms coordinating transport of N and K, as well as P and N.

Automated summary

Nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are essential macronutrients for plant growth, with their availability affecting crop yield. Improving plant nutrient utilization efficiency is key to overcoming limitations caused by potassium and phosphorus deficiencies. Investigation of molecular mechanisms in plant sensing, absorbing, transporting, and using potassium and phosphorus is crucial for enhancing crop nutrient utilization efficiency.