Cesium uptake in rice: Possible transporter, distribution, and variation

Abstract

Here, we review cesium uptake and accumulation in rice. Cesium is an alkaline metal, and its uptake is affected by potassium nutrition. Several transporters for cesium have been described. The distribution of cesium in the rice plant body differs from that of potassium, suggesting differential transport/storage mechanisms for cesium and potassium in rice. Cesium concentration in rice differs among cultivars, and it would be possible to determine the gene(s) responsible for cesium uptake/accumulation in future. This knowledge will form the foundation for the development of low radiocesium-Accumulating cultivars.