Molecular cloning, polyclonal antibody preparation, and characterization of a functional iron-related transcription factor IRO2 from Malus xiaojinensis

► We cloned the iron-related transcription factor, IRO2, from Malus xiaojinensis. ► IRO2 was localized in the nucleus and had weak transcriptional activation activity. ► MxIRO2 was expressed in Escherichia coli and used to raise a polyclonal antibody. ► Transcription and translation of MxIRO2 were induced under iron deficiency. ► MxIRO2 may play a role in regulating genes related to the iron-deficiency response.