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Interaction Between Sulfur and Iron in Plants
Stefania Astolfi1, Silvia Celletti1, Gianpiero Vigani2
1Department of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy.
Frontiers in Plant Science
|August 6, 2021
Summary
Plant sulfur (S) and iron (Fe) uptake are closely linked, with S availability impacting Fe accumulation and Fe deficiency increasing S demand. Understanding this nutrient interplay is key for sustainable agriculture.
Area of Science:
- Plant nutrition
- Biochemistry
- Agricultural science
Background:
- Sulfur (S) interacts with essential plant macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (Fe, Mo, Cu, Zn, B).
- Interactions stem from shared chemical properties, metabolic dependencies, direct complex formation (e.g., Fe-S clusters), and S's role in vital organic molecules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on the interplay between iron (Fe) and sulfur (S) in plants.
- To identify knowledge gaps in the regulation and sensing mechanisms of Fe/S interactions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review integrating existing and recent studies on Fe/S interactions in plants.
- Critical evaluation of plant nutrient uptake, translocation, assimilation, and signaling.
Main Results:
- Plant iron (Fe) uptake and accumulation are significantly dependent on sulfur (S) availability.
- S application enhances Fe content in wheat grains, especially under Fe-limiting conditions.
- Iron (Fe) deficiency elevates S uptake and assimilation rates, mimicking S deficiency symptoms.
Conclusions:
- The Fe/S nutrient relationship is crucial for plant growth and nutrient management.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of Fe/S interaction and plant adaptation to nutrient fluctuations.
- Understanding Fe/S mechanisms can improve crop performance and promote sustainable agriculture.
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