Inorganic phosphate uptake in unicellular eukaryotes

Background

Inorganic phosphate (P_i) is an essential nutrient for all organisms. The route of P_i utilization begins with P_i transport across the plasma membrane.

Scope of review

Here, we analyzed the gene sequences and compared the biochemical profiles, including kinetic and modulator parameters, of P_i transporters in unicellular eukaryotes. The objective of this review is to evaluate the recent findings regarding P_i uptake mechanisms in microorganisms, such as the fungi Neurospora crassa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the parasite protozoans Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma rangeli, Leishmania infantum and Plasmodium falciparum.

Major conclusion

P_i uptake is the key step of P_i homeostasis and in the subsequent signaling event in eukaryotic microorganisms.

General significance

Biochemical and structural studies are important for clarifying mechanisms of P_i homeostasis, as well as P_i sensor and downstream pathways, and raise possibilities for future studies in this field.