Involvement of the ABCG 37 transporter in secretion of scopoletin and derivatives by Arabidopsis roots in response to iron deficiency

What is it about?

Plants need iron for growth as it underpins key processes like photosynthesis and respiration. If there is insufficient iron available in the soil, development of chlorophyll is hampered, which causes yellowing of young leaves. Ultimately, iron deficiency causes plant death. PLANT RESPONSES TO IRON DEFICIENCY Plants have evolved strategies to mine iron, and their roots secrete organic compounds in reaction to iron deficiency. Until this study, little was known about the chemical composition of the compounds or the biosynthetic pathways and root cell membrane transporters involved. AN IMPORTANT GENE FOR IRON DEFICIENCY This study reveals that a gene, ABCG37, is upregulated (an increase in the cellular component) upon iron deficiency. The protein encoded by the gene enables the secretion of compounds that actually help them to cope with iron-poor growing conditions. Overall, the study's main findings are: • Iron deficiency induces the secretion of coumarin (fragrant organic chemical) compounds by Arabidopsis plant roots • The ABCG37 ABC transporter is instrumental in this • The coumarin compounds improve plant iron nutrition. Notably, as iron deficiency increases, secretion is enhanced

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