The Role of Membrane Transporters in the Biofortification of Zinc and Iron in Plants

Over three billion people suffer from various health issues due to the low supply of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) in their food. Low supply of micronutrients is the main cause of malnutrition and biofortification could help to solve this issue. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of biofortification is challenging. The membrane transporters are involved in the uptake, transport, storage, and redistribution of Zn and Fe in plants. These transporters are also involved in biofortification and help to load the Zn and Fe into the endosperm of the seeds. Very little knowledge is available on the role and functions of membrane transporters involved in seed biofortification. Understanding the mechanism and role of membrane transporters could be helpful to improve biofortification. In this review, we provide the details on membrane transporters involved in the uptake, transport, storage, and redistribution of Zn and Fe. We also discuss available information on transporters involved in seed biofortification. This review will help plant breeders and molecular biologists understand the importance and implications of membrane transporters for seed biofortification.

Automated summary

More than three billion people worldwide suffer from health issues caused by a lack of zinc and iron, leading to malnutrition. Biofortification is a potential solution to this problem, but understanding the molecular mechanisms involved is challenging. This review discusses the role of membrane transporters in the uptake, transport, storage, and redistribution of zinc and iron in plants, particularly in seed biofortification. The information provided will help plant breeders and molecular biologists understand the importance and implications of membrane transporters for seed biofortification.