Autophagy: The unlikely hero that balances zinc and iron in plants

Nutrient imbalances can adversely impact crop health and agricultural productivity. The trace elements zinc and iron are taken up by the same 'transporters' in plants; so, zinc deficiency can result in excess uptake of iron. How does the plant cope with this imbalance? Researchers reveal that autophagy, the process of intracellular self-degradation, may have an unexpected role in restoring zinc-iron balance in plants.

from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/08/210818083951.htm