Silicon (Si), the most abundant mineral element in the earth’s crust, is taken up by plant roots in the form of silicic acid through Low silicon rice 1 (Lsi1). Saitoh et al. uncovered the crystal structure of Lsi1 at a resolution of 1.8 Å. Combined structural, functional, and theoretical investigations provide a solid structural basis for Si uptake mechanism in plants, which will contribute to secure and sustainable rice production by manipulating Lsi1 selectivity for different metalloids. 

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