Deoxymugineïnezuur

Deoxymugineïnezuur is a plant hormone belonging to the mugineic acid family of phytosiderophores. These compounds are crucial for plants in acquiring essential micronutrients, particularly iron, from the soil, especially under conditions where iron availability is limited. Deoxymugineïnezuur plays a vital role in the strategy plants employ to cope with iron deficiency stress.

When iron levels in the soil are low, plants release deoxymugineïnezuur into the rhizosphere, the area of soil directly surrounding the plant roots. This molecule acts as a chelator, meaning it binds tightly to iron ions. Once chelated, the iron becomes soluble and is then readily absorbed by the plant roots. This mechanism is particularly important for cereals like rice and barley, which are known to synthesize and utilize mugineic acid family compounds for iron uptake.

The biosynthesis of deoxymugineïnezuur involves a complex pathway starting from methionine. Enzymes catalyze a series of reactions to form the characteristic structure of the molecule, which includes a nitrogen atom and multiple hydroxyl groups, contributing to its strong metal-binding capabilities. The regulation of deoxymugineïnezuur synthesis and release is tightly controlled by the plant's internal iron status. Understanding the role and synthesis of deoxymugineïnezuur is of significant interest in agricultural research, aiming to improve crop nutrition and yield, especially in soils with low iron content.