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Measuring Fluxes of Mineral Nutrients and Toxicants in Plants with Radioactive Tracers
Published on: August 22, 2014
Current understanding of HAK potassium transporters in plant development and stress tolerance
Yuxin Cui1, Xiaoqian Zhang1, Meixiang Yang1
1Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of Life Science, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, Shandong, China.
Abstract:
Potassium (K+) is a critical nutrient for plant growth and development. The K+ uptake/high-affinity K+ transporter/K+ transporter (KUP/HAK/KT) family comprises high-affinity K+ transport proteins in plants, with vital roles in K+ uptake and transport, especially under K+-deficient conditions. In this review, we summarize the functions of HAK transporter proteins in mediating K+ uptake and plant growth and development. We also discuss their roles in enhancing plant tolerance to salt, drought, K+ deficiency, and virus stresses, as well as their regulation. We propose that the functions of HAKs in regulating photosynthesis and growth, as well as the mechanisms by which HAKs interact with related genes and proteins to carry out their functions, warrant future investigation. The studies discussed here are important for improving the efficiency of K+ fertilization, enhancing crop yield and quality, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
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