Boron in plants: deficiency and toxicity

J Integr Plant Biol. 2008 Oct;50(10):1247-55. doi: 10.1111/j.1744-7909.2008.00742.x.

Abstract

Boron (B) is an essential nutrient for normal growth of higher plants, and B availability in soil and irrigation water is an important determinant of agricultural production. To date, a primordial function of B is undoubtedly its structural role in the cell wall; however, there is increasing evidence for a possible role of B in other processes such as the maintenance of plasma membrane function and several metabolic pathways. In recent years, the knowledge of the molecular basis of B deficiency and toxicity responses in plants has advanced greatly. The aim of this review is to provide an update on recent findings related to these topics, which can contribute to a better understanding of the role of B in plants.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Boron / deficiency*
  • Boron / metabolism
  • Boron / physiology
  • Boron / toxicity*
  • Cell Wall / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant / drug effects
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant / physiology
  • Plants / drug effects
  • Plants / metabolism*

Substances

  • Boron