Mugineic acid

Mugineic acid is the organic compound consisting of a azetidine group and three carboxylates.

More specifically, it is a phytosiderophore, i.e. a plant-produced siderophore.

It functions as an iron accumulating agent for barley and other plants.

Related phytosiderophores include nicotianamine and avenic acid.

The compound binds metal ions as a hexadentate ligand.

Structure of Co(III) complex of tetra-deprotonated mugineic acid (as sodium salt, not shown). [ 2 ] [ 3 ]