Ferric Uptake Regulator (FUR) protein: properties and implications in cyanobacteria

Abstract

The Ferric uptake regulator (Fur) protein is a global iron regulator found in most prokaryotes. Although the Fur protein is involved in a variety of metabolic pathways, it is specifically known for the regulation of several iron responsive genes. It binds to the highly conserved sequences located in the upstream promoter region known as iron boxes, using ferrous ion as a co-repressor. Apart from that, the Fur protein is also directly/indirectly involved in a variety of other crucial physiological pathways. Hence, understanding the mechanism of action and the mechanistic pathways of iron regulation by Fur is necessary and important. The basic understanding of the functioning and properties of Fur protein along with its role, interaction and regulation at various levels in cyanobacteria has been discussed in detail.