Abstract
The major facilitator superfamily (MFS) is a large and diverse group of secondary transporters found across all kingdoms of life. Zinc-induced facilitator-like (ZIFL) transporters are the MFS family members that function as exporters driven by the antiporter-dependent processes. The presence of multiple ZIFL transporters was shown in various plant species, as well as in bryophytes. However, only a few ZIFLs have been functionally characterized in plants, and their localization has been suggested to be either on tonoplast or at the plasma membrane. A subset of the plant ZIFLs were eventually characterized as transporters due to their specialized role in phytosiderophores efflux and auxin homeostasis, and they were also proven to impart tolerance to micronutrient deficiency. The emerging functions of ZIFL proteins highlight their role in addressing important traits in crop species. This review aims to provide insight into and discuss the importance of plant ZIFL in various tissue-specific functions. Furthermore, a spotlight is placed on their role in mobilizing essential micronutrients, including iron and zinc, from the rhizosphere to support plant survival. In conclusion, in this paper, we discuss the functional redundancy of ZIFL transporters to understand their roles in developing specific traits in crop.
Highlights
The major facilitator superfamily is one of the second largest membrane transporters that is ubiquitously present in living organisms
Multiple wheat zinc-induced facilitator-like (ZIFL) have been induced in the tissue-specific manner when exposed to metals such as Co, Cd and Ni [22]
Membrane-localized TOMs are the known effluxer of PS. This evidence indicates that ZIFL is a TOM protein that could eventually assist in the uptake and transport of Fe, two functions that are specific for cereal crops
Summary
The major facilitator superfamily is one of the second largest membrane transporters that is ubiquitously present in living organisms. The new members of plant MFS proteins, such as ferroportin and zinc-induced facilitator-like (ZIFL) proteins, are being explored for their role in metal homeostasis, especially in regulating the flux of two important micronutrients, viz Fe and Zn. Micronutrients, including Fe and Zn, in grains are required for germination, seedling development and provide primary nutritional sources for humans, especially for people consuming cereals as staple foods [13]. The current review highlights the recent advances that suggest an essential role of ZIFL in different biological functions and substrate transport. This information will provide new avenues for the genetic manipulations of ZIFL genes, using biotechnological approaches to develop unique traits
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