Molecular Mechanism of Lead Toxicity and Tolerance in Plants

Lead toxicity in plants: mechanistic insights into toxicity, physiological responses of plants and mitigation strategies

“…The enhanced Pb concentration may disrupt natural physiological processes, reduce enzyme activity, interfere with inorganic nutrition and hydration management, and alter the permeability of the cell membrane leading to phytotoxicity, and eventually lead to cell death. 34 , 88 …”

“… 77 Pb decreases the germination rate by interfering with amylase and protease enzyme activity, as well as with metabolic functions, inhibiting the ATPase enzyme, and leading to a decreased energy production in the seed embryo. 34 There is a lowered transpiration rate due to Pb toxicity due to which the amount of water and nutrients reaching the plants’ upper regions is affected adversely. The decreased production of protein, RNA, and DNA in the embryonic axis and endosperms of plants, results in reduced germination of the seedlings.…”

“… 33 Srivastava and Srivastava (2023) highlighted the molecular mechanism of Pb toxicity in plants and their tolerance. 34 Pourrut et al, emphasized the mechanism involved in the uptake and detoxification of Pb in higher plants at the molecular level. 35 Colin et al, emphasized the bioaccumulation of Pb and its effects on plants.…”