Mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants: a review

Abstract

Abstract: Pollution by heavy metal contamination caused by recent human activities such as industry, agriculture and mining practices has attracted great attention worldwide. The mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants have been one of the worldwide hotspots of study. Heavy metal enters plants from the soil solution through the rhizodermis. It traverses the root via symplasmic or apoplasmic pathways and then enters the xylem where it is transported to the shoot. Many genes, such as the ABC transport system gene and P-type ATPase gene, are associated with heavy metal transport and accumulation. This article reviews the role of different parts of the plant in heavy metal accumulation and translocation and the genes related to heavy metal transport. Future research fields ont heavy metal transport in plants is also suggested.

CLC Number:

Q946.92

HUANG Bai-fei, XIN Jun-liang. Mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants: a review[J]. Acta Prataculturae Sinica, 2013, 22(1): 300-307.

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