Summary
This molecular study elucidates the role of OsABCC7, a C-type ATP-binding cassette transporter, in mediating root-to-shoot translocation of arsenite in rice. Through gene expression analysis, protein localisation studies, and functional characterisation in transgenic and knockout lines, the authors demonstrate that OsABCC7 actively transports arsenic complexed with phytochelatins and glutathione across the xylem parenchyma cell membrane, thereby regulating arsenic accumulation in rice grain—a significant food safety concern.
UK applicability
Rice is not a major staple crop in the United Kingdom; however, the findings are relevant to UK food safety policy and importation standards, as the UK imports substantial quantities of rice. Understanding arsenic translocation mechanisms could inform global efforts to develop lower-arsenic rice varieties and strengthen food safety monitoring protocols for rice and rice products consumed domestically.
Key measures
OsABCC7 gene expression (quantitative real-time RT-PCR); protein localisation (GFP fusion, immunofluorescence); in vitro efflux activity (Xenopus oocyte expression); arsenic concentration in xylem sap and shoot tissue (knockout vs. wild-type); spatial expression pattern (GUS staining)
Outcomes reported
The study identified OsABCC7, an ABC transporter protein, as a key mediator of arsenic root-to-shoot translocation in rice, specifically transporting As(III)-phytochelatin and As(III)-glutathione complexes across the plasma membrane in xylem parenchyma cells. Knockout of OsABCC7 significantly reduced arsenic concentration in xylem sap and shoots, demonstrating its functional role in arsenic accumulation in rice grain.
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