Mineral nutrient signaling controls photosynthesis: focus on iron deficiency-induced chlorosis

Abstract

Photosynthetic organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in carbohydrates. To perform this process, an adequate supply of essential mineral elements, such as iron, is required in the chloroplast. Because iron plays a crucial role during electron transport and chlorophyll formation, iron deficiency alters photosynthesis and promotes chlorosis, or the yellowing of leaves. Intriguingly, iron deficiency-induced chlorosis can be reverted by the depletion of other micronutrients [i.e., manganese (Mn)] or macronutrients [i.e., sulfur (S) or phosphorus (P)], raising the question of how plants integrate nutrient status to control photosynthesis. Here, we review how improving our understanding of the complex relationship between nutrient homeostasis and photosynthesis has great potential for crop improvement.

Keywords: antioxidants; chlorophyll content; chlorosis; hormones; iron deficiency; mineral nutrition; nutrient signaling crosstalk; photosynthesis.