The role of ZIP transporters and group F bZIP transcription factors in the Zn‐deficiency response of wheat (Triticum aestivum)

Summary Understanding the molecular basis of zinc (Zn) uptake and transport in staple cereal crops is critical for improving both Zn content and tolerance to low‐Zn soils. This study demonstrates the importance of group F bZIP transcription factors and ZIP transporters in responses to Zn deficiency in wheat (Triticum aestivum). Seven group F TabZIP genes and 14 ZIPs with homeologs were identified in hexaploid wheat. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of Zn‐deficiency‐response elements (ZDREs) in a number of the ZIPs. Functional complementation of the zrt1/zrt2 yeast mutant by TaZIP3, ‐6, ‐7, ‐9 and ‐13 supported an ability to transport Zn. Group F TabZIPs contain the group‐defining cysteine–histidine‐rich motifs, which are the predicted binding site of Zn2+ in the Zn‐deficiency response. Conservation of these motifs varied between the TabZIPs suggesting that individual TabZIPs may have specific roles in the wheat Zn‐homeostatic network. Increased expression in response to low Zn levels was observed for several of the wheat ZIPs and bZIPs; this varied temporally and spatially suggesting specific functions in the response mechanism. The ability of the group F TabZIPs to bind to specific ZDREs in the promoters of TaZIPs indicates a conserved mechanism in monocots and dicots in responding to Zn deficiency. In support of this, TabZIPF1‐7DL and TabZIPF4‐7AL afforded a strong level of rescue to the Arabidopsis hypersensitive bzip19 bzip23 double mutant under Zn deficiency. These results provide a greater understanding of Zn‐homeostatic mechanisms in wheat, demonstrating an expanded repertoire of group F bZIP transcription factors, adding to the complexity of Zn homeostasis. Significance Statement Understanding the molecular basis of Zn uptake, transport throughout the plant and homeostasis is an important step toward the improvement of both Zn content and tolerance to low Zn soils of the staple cereal, wheat. Here we identify and characterise Zn‐responsive members of the wheat ZIP membrane transporter family and also wheat F group bZIP transcription factors and determine their role in the response to Zn deficiency.