Iron uptake, signaling, and sensing in plants

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient that affects the growth and development of plants because it partic-ipates as a cofactor in numerous physiological and biochemical reactions. As a transition metal, Fe is redox active. Fe often exists in soil in the form of insoluble ferric hydroxides that are not bioavailable to plants. Plants have developed sophisticated mechanisms to ensure an adequate supply of Fe in a fluctuating envi-ronment. Plants can sense Fe status and modulate the transcription of Fe uptake-associated genes, finally controlling Fe uptake from soil to root. There is a critical need to understand the molecular mechanisms by which plants maintain Fe homeostasis in response to Fe fluctuations. This review focuses on recent advances in elucidating the functions of Fe signaling components. Taking Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa as examples, this review begins by discussing the Fe acquisition systems that control Fe uptake from soil, the major components that regulate Fe uptake systems, and the perception of Fe status. Future explo-rations of Fe signal transduction will pave the way for understanding the regulatory mechanisms that un-derlie the maintenance of plant Fe homeostasis.

Automated summary

This article focuses on recent advances in elucidating the functions of Iron (Fe) signaling components. The paper discusses the Fe acquisition systems that control Fe uptake from soil, the major components that regulate Fe uptake systems, and the perception of Fe status in Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa. Further exploration of Fe signal transduction will pave the way for understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying the maintenance of plant Fe homeostasis.