COPPER DYNAMICS IN THE PLANT

REVIEW

Abstract

Copper (Cu) refers to a micronutrient with an important role, a component of metalloproteins responsible for photosynthesis, respiration of electron transport chains, cell wall biosynthesis, secondary metabolism and participates in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The micronutrient is fundamental for plant development, because under conditions of deficiency, the plant reduces its growth, especially the reproductive organs and younger leaves. Under Cu restriction, biological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, protection against oxidative stress and plant metabolic functioning are interrupted, which corroborates with lower production rates. As well as the deficiency, the excess of copper causes several damages to the plant growth parameters. Among the metabolic processes, photosynthesis is severely affected by Cu toxicity. Based on cell metabolism, Cu has a great influence on cell wall metabolism, transcriptional protein transport signaling, oxidative phosphorylation, in addition to the biogenesis of iron (Fe) and molybdenum (Mo), being essential for plant growth. Knowledge about the micronutrient makes it possible to optimize its use in order to establish better conditions for plant development.