Subcellular distribution of metals in developing seeds

Manganese (Mn) plays a crucial role in plants in photosynthesis, synthesis of antioxidants, and cell wall compounds. Efficient transport of Mn within and between cells, mediated by specific transporters, is essential for proper cellular function. Our research has revealed that the movement of Mn from the outer cell layers to the inner embryos in plant seeds relies on the NRAMP2 transporter, which is located on an intracellular organelle called the trans-Golgi network (manuscript in prep). Disruption of this transport mechanism results in altered zinc contents, seeds germination is susceptibility to seed-transmitted pathogens. A critical question remains: how does a transporter situated in an intracellular organelle facilitate cell-to-cell transport of Mn? We propose to map the localization of manganese and zinc in the developing seeds of wild type and nramp2 mutants at cellular and subcellular resolutions. This research could significantly advance the field of seed biofortification.