The gene encodes Fe2+ transporter protein. It is a member of the Zrt/Irt-like protein (ZIP) family of transporters. AtIRT1 has broad specificity for divalent heavy metals, mediating the transport of zinc, manganese, cobalt and cadmium under Fe-deficient conditions. IRT1 is monoubiquitinated to promote endocytic trafficking. The mRNA is cell-to-cell mobile.