Zinc homeostasis in Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Most metal ions such as iron, calcium, zinc, or copper are essential for all eukaryotes. Organisms must maintain homeostasis of these metal ions because excess or deficiency of metal ions could cause damage to organisms. The steady state of many metal ions such as iron and copper has been well studied in detail. However, how to regulate zinc homeostasis in Schizosaccharomyces pombe is still confusing. In this review, we provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms that how S. pombe is able to maintain the balance of zinc levels in the changes of environment. In response to high levels of zinc, the transcription factor Loz1 represses the expression of several genes involved in the acquisition of zinc. Meanwhile, the CDF family proteins transport excess zinc to the secretory pathway. When zinc levels are limited, Loz1 was inactivated and could not inhibit the expression of zinc acquisition genes, and zinc stored in the secretory pathway is released for use by the cells. Besides, other factors that regulate zinc homeostasis are also discussed.