Abstract

The distribution of iron in maize (Zea mays L.) seeds is essential for both seed development and its nutritional value. In this study, we analyzed the role of the VIVIPAROUS1 (VP1) gene in regulating iron localization and ferritin accumulation using loss-of-function mutant alleles. Histological stainings revealed significant iron mislocalization in vp1 mutants, particularly in the scutellum, aleurone cells, and cells surrounding the provasculature, altering the iron distribution pattern observed in wild-type seeds but not the total iron content. Western blot analysis highlighted an increase in FERRITIN protein accumulation in mutant seeds, suggesting that VP1 plays a crucial role in repressing FERRITIN gene expression. Our findings highlight the genetic regulation of iron storage and transport by VP1, with implications for both seed development and nutritional improvement in maize crops.