Cyanobacteria are dependent on but can also be compromised by metals such as iron. On the one hand the demand for iron for photosystem functionality represents a challenge for the iron uptake machinery in iron limiting environments. On the other hand intoxication by iron causes a severe problem for growth and reproduction. To overcome this dilemma cyanobacteria have developed a regulatory network controlling iron uptake. They produce siderophores, which are distinct from that of other bacteria. Furthermore, the iron metabolism is linked to the nitrogen metabolism as documented for example in Anabaena sp. PCC 7120.

Further reading: Iron Uptake and Homeostasis in Microorganisms

Labels: Anabaena, cyanobacteria, Iron acquisition mechanisms, Iron deficiency, Iron transporters, Iron uptake in Cyanobacteria, Iron uptake systems, Iron-homeostasis, Iron-uptake, Siderophore, Siderophores