Fe3fytosideroforcomplex

Fe3+-phytosiderophore complexes refer to iron(III) bound by phytosiderophores, organic molecules secreted by certain plant roots to mobilize ferric iron from the soil. The term “Fe3fytosiderof” appears to be a misspelling or shorthand for this concept. In graminaceous plants, this process is part of Strategy II for iron uptake. The primary phytosiderophores belong to the mugineic acid family, including deoxymugineic acid and related compounds. These molecules are synthesized in root tissues and actively exuded into the rhizosphere, where they form stable, water-soluble complexes with Fe3+. The resulting Fe3+-phytosiderophore chelates increase iron solubility and availability in soils where iron tends to precipitate, such as alkaline or calcareous conditions.

Uptake of the complex by the plant occurs through specialized transporters in the root epidermis and cortex, notably members of the Yellow Stripe1-like (YSL) family. These transporters recognize the Fe3+-phytosiderophore complex and import it into root cells, where iron is subsequently released and assimilated for metabolic needs. The exudation and transport process is typically induced by iron deficiency and is a key adaptation in grasses such as barley, wheat, and rice.

Biosynthesis of phytosiderophores starts from primary metabolism providing precursors like nicotianamine, which are converted through enzymatic steps to mugineic acids and related compounds. Environmental factors, including soil pH and microbial competition for iron, influence the efficiency of this system.

Overall, Fe3+-phytosiderophore complexes play a central role in plant iron nutrition, enabling growth in soils with limited iron availability, and they illustrate a distinct strategy from non-graminaceous plants that rely more on root acidification and direct iron uptake.