Signals from chloroplasts and mitochondria for iron homeostasis regulation

Trends Plant Sci. 2013 Jun;18(6):305-11. doi: 10.1016/j.tplants.2013.01.006. Epub 2013 Feb 22.

Abstract

Iron (Fe) is an essential element for human nutrition. Given that plants represent a major dietary source of Fe worldwide, it is crucial to understand plant Fe homeostasis fully. A major breakthrough in the understanding of Fe sensing and signaling was the identification of several transcription factor cascades regulating Fe homeostasis. However, the mechanisms of activation of these cascades still remain to be elucidated. In this opinion, we focus on the possible roles of mitochondria and chloroplasts as cellular Fe sensing and signaling sites, offering a new perspective on the integrated regulation of Fe homeostasis and its interplay with cellular metabolism.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Cell Communication
  • Chloroplasts / physiology*
  • Homeostasis*
  • Iron / physiology*
  • Mitochondria / physiology*
  • Plant Physiological Phenomena*
  • Plants
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • Iron