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Sun X, Kong T, Huang D, Chen Z, Zhang Y, Häggblom MM, Soleimani M, Liu H, Ren Y, Wang Y, Huang Y, Li B, Sun W. Microbial Sulfur and Arsenic Oxidation Facilitate the Establishment of Biocrusts during Reclamation of Degraded Mine Tailings. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38900020 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Degraded tailings generated by the mining of metal ores are major environmental threats to the surrounding ecosystems. Tailing reclamation, however, is often impeded due to adverse environmental conditions, with depleted key nutrients (i.e., nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)) and elevated sulfur and metal(loid) concentrations. Formation of biocrusts may significantly accelerate nutrient accumulation and is therefore an essential stage for tailing reclamation. Although suggested to play an important role, the microbial community composition and key metabolisms in biocrusts remain largely unknown and are therefore investigated in the current study. The results suggested that sulfur and arsenic oxidation are potential energy sources utilized by members of predominant biocrust bacterial families, including Beijerinckiaceae, Burkholderiaceae, Hyphomicrobiaceae, and Rhizobiaceae. Accordingly, the S and As oxidation potentials are elevated in biocrusts compared to those in their adjacent tailings. Biocrust growth, as proxied by chlorophyll concentrations, is enhanced in treatments supplemented with S and As. The elevated biocrust growth might benefit from nutrient acquisition services (i.e., nitrogen fixation and phosphorus solubilization) fueled by microbial sulfur and arsenic oxidation. The current study suggests that sulfur- and arsenic-oxidizing microorganisms may play important ecological roles in promoting biocrust formation and facilitating tailing reclamation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Sun
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Tianle Kong
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Duanyi Huang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Yuxue Zhang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Max M Häggblom
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, United States
| | - Mohsen Soleimani
- Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Huaqing Liu
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Youhua Ren
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yize Wang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Ying Huang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Baoqin Li
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Weimin Sun
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control,Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
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Vitelli V, Giamborino A, Bertolini A, Saba A, Andreucci A. Cadmium Stress Signaling Pathways in Plants: Molecular Responses and Mechanisms. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:6052-6068. [PMID: 38921032 PMCID: PMC11202648 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Heavy metal (HM) pollution, specifically cadmium (Cd) contamination, is a worldwide concern for its consequences for plant health and ecosystem stability. This review sheds light on the intricate mechanisms underlying Cd toxicity in plants and the various strategies employed by these organisms to mitigate its adverse effects. From molecular responses to physiological adaptations, plants have evolved sophisticated defense mechanisms to counteract Cd stress. We highlighted the role of phytochelatins (PCn) in plant detoxification, which chelate and sequester Cd ions to prevent their accumulation and minimize toxicity. Additionally, we explored the involvement of glutathione (GSH) in mitigating oxidative damage caused by Cd exposure and discussed the regulatory mechanisms governing GSH biosynthesis. We highlighted the role of transporter proteins, such as ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABCs) and heavy metal ATPases (HMAs), in mediating the uptake, sequestration, and detoxification of Cd in plants. Overall, this work offered valuable insights into the physiological, molecular, and biochemical mechanisms underlying plant responses to Cd stress, providing a basis for strategies to alleviate the unfavorable effects of HM pollution on plant health and ecosystem resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Vitelli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Agnese Giamborino
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrea Bertolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alessandro Saba
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Area, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.G.); (A.B.); (A.S.)
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Phaenark C, Seechanhoi P, Sawangproh W. Metal toxicity in Bryum coronatum Schwaegrichen: impact on chlorophyll content, lamina cell structure, and metal accumulation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2024; 26:1336-1347. [PMID: 38379318 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2024.2317878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
This research examined the impact of heavy metals, including Cd, Pb, and Zn, on chlorophyll content and lamina cell structure in Bryum coronatum. After exposure to varying metal concentrations (0.015, 0.065, 0.250, 1, and 4 mg/L), chlorophyll content, chloroplast numbers, lamina cell change, and metal accumulation were investigated. Chlorophyll content was assessed using spectrophotometry, whereas chloroplast numbers and lamina cell changes were examined under a light microscope. Metal accumulation was quantified through ICP-MS. The findings revealed that Cd notably reduced chlorophyll a content, while Pb and Zn showed minimal influence. Cd and Pb exposure decreased the number of chloroplasts in lamina cells, with no impact from Zn. The moss's capacity to absorb metals increased with higher exposure levels, indicating its potential as a biomonitor for heavy metal pollution. Cell mortality occurred in response to Cd and Pb, primarily in the median and apical lamina regions, while Zn had no effect. This study sheds light on heavy metal toxicity in B. coronatum, underscoring its significance for environmental monitoring. Further research on the mechanisms and consequences of heavy metal toxicity in bryophytes is essential for a comprehensive understanding of this critical issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetsada Phaenark
- Conservation Biology Program, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, Mahidol University, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
| | - Paramet Seechanhoi
- Conservation Biology Program, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, Mahidol University, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
| | - Weerachon Sawangproh
- Conservation Biology Program, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, Mahidol University, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
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Świsłowski P, Nowak A, Rajfur M. Significance of moss pretreatments in active biomonitoring surveys. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2024; 26:304-313. [PMID: 37537866 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2023.2241583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The present study examines the impact of pretreatment procedures on the metal concentrations in bags that are to be exposed. We examine Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb amounts in Sphagnum fallax and Dicranum polysetum mosses using atomic absorption spectrometry. The concentration of Hg was also determined using a mercury analyzer. Two sample preparation ways were tested (with and without rinsing) and their influence was evaluated by determining the coefficient of variation (CV). Chlorophyll content was also determined in mosses collected from three habitats (deep woodland, forest road, and wood lot). The results indicate, that the concentration of elements deposited in mosses depends on the species and the habitat where they were collected (ANOVA, p < 0.001). Rinsing of mosses reduces the CV for Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn and uniform the material prior to exposure (CV for the majority of metals <10%). Selected correlations were found for element concentrations with chlorophyll content. Photosynthetic activity of mosses decreased by about 80% during their one-month storage in the laboratory. Due to the varying concentration of metals in the collected samples, proper, and standardized preparation of mosses before exposure, they can be effectively used in active biomonitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arkadiusz Nowak
- Botanical Garden - Centre for Biodiversity Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Botany and Nature Conservation, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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Hu WY, Mao HT, Yin XY, Chen JY, He AQ, Huang LY, Zhang ZW, Yuan S, Yuan M, Su YQ, Chen YE. Melatonin alleviates Hg toxicity by modulating redox homeostasis and the urea cycle in moss. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167958. [PMID: 37866616 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic metal and can cause severe damage to many organisms under natural conditions. As an effective free radical scavenger and antioxidant, Melatonin (MT) has played important protective roles in alleviating oxidative damage caused by environmental cues including heavy metal stress in plants. However, the detailed mechanisms of melatonin in alleviating Hg toxicity still remain unclear in plants. Our results showed that the application of melatonin greatly reduced the concentrations of total and intracellular Hg in Taxiphyllum taxirameum. Meanwhile, melatonin significantly improved the antioxidant capacity and thus alleviated oxidative damage to the chloroplasts of T. taxirameum under Hg stress. Metabolic pathway analysis further revealed that melatonin-treated plants exhibited higher levels of 48 metabolites, including sugars, amino acids, and lipids, than non-melatonin-treated plants under Hg stress. Additionally, we further found that melatonin addition greatly improved the concentrations of four organic acids and three amino acids (Orn, Cit and Arg) related to the urea cycle, and thereby changed the levels of putrescine (Put) and spermidine (Spd) in T. taxirameum exposed to Hg stress. Further experiments showed that the high concentration of Put dramatically caused oxidative damage under Hg stress, while Spd effectively alleviated Hg toxicity in T. taxirameum. Taken together, this study provides new insight into the underlying mechanisms of melatonin in alleviating heavy metal toxicity in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Yue Hu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Hao-Tian Mao
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Yin
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Jing-Yi Chen
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - An-Qi He
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Lin-Yan Huang
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Zhong-Wei Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130 Chengdu, China
| | - Shu Yuan
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130 Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Yuan
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China
| | - Yan-Qiu Su
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, 610066 Chengdu, China.
| | - Yang-Er Chen
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 625014 Ya'an, China; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
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Santini G, Castiglia D, Perrotta MM, Landi S, Maisto G, Esposito S. Plastic in the Environment: A Modern Type of Abiotic Stress for Plant Physiology. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3717. [PMID: 37960073 PMCID: PMC10648480 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, plastic pollution has become a growing environmental concern: more than 350 million tons of plastic material are produced annually. Although many efforts have been made to recycle waste, a significant proportion of these plastics contaminate and accumulate in the environment. A central point in plastic pollution is demonstrated by the evidence that plastic objects gradually and continuously split up into smaller pieces, thus producing subtle and invisible pollution caused by microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP). The small dimensions of these particles allow for the diffusion of these contaminants in farmlands, forest, freshwater, and oceans worldwide, posing serious menaces to human, animal, and plant health. The uptake of MPs and NPs into plant cells seriously affects plant growth, development, and photosynthesis, finally limiting crop yields and endangering natural environmental biodiversity. Furthermore, nano- and microplastics-once adsorbed by plants-can easily enter the food chain, being highly toxic to animals and humans. This review addresses the impacts of MP and NP particles on plants in the terrestrial environment. In particular, we provide an overview here of the detrimental effects of photosynthetic injuries, oxidative stress, ROS production, and protein damage triggered by MN and NP in higher plants and, more specifically, in crops. The possible damage at the physiological and environmental levels is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Santini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Daniela Castiglia
- Bio-Organic Chemistry Unit, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry CNR, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, 80078 Naples, Italy
| | - Maryanna Martina Perrotta
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Simone Landi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Giulia Maisto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Sergio Esposito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
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Bačkor M, Goga M, Singh P, Tuptová V. Mechanisms of Copper Toxicity and Tolerance in the Aquatic Moss Taxiphyllum barbieri. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3607. [PMID: 37896070 PMCID: PMC10609954 DOI: 10.3390/plants12203607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic habitats are very frequently polluted with different kinds of xenobiotics, including heavy metals. For biomonitoring studies of aquatic pollution, algae are frequently used, as they do not contain protective cuticle on the surface of their thalli and can accumulate pollutants over the whole surface of thalli. However, this is a feature of most cryptogams. For this reason, we assessed the sensitivity of the aquatic moss Taxiphyllum barbieri (Java moss) to copper excess in a short-term study. Moss T. barbieri belongs to the common aquatic plants originating from Southeast Asia. To test the sensitivity (or tolerance) of the moss to excess Cu, selected concentrations (50, 250 and 500 µM) were employed in our 24 h studies. Total and intracellular Cu accumulation positively correlated with Cu availability in the water. This total and intracellular Cu accumulation was negatively correlated with decreased intracellular K content. Excess Cu negatively affected the composition of assimilation pigments and soluble proteins. Cu caused increased peroxidation of membrane lipids assessed using TBARS assay. Excess Cu decreased GSH to GSSG ratio and ascorbic acid content. We did not observe phytochelatin synthesis in this moss. The roles of selected amino acids, their intermediates and derivatives, as well as S-containing nucleosides and phenolic acids in Cu homeostasis and toxicity or tolerance were evaluated. We assume that this moss has potential for future employment in water quality evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Bačkor
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
- Department of Botany, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Šafárik University, Mánesova 23, 041 67 Košice, Slovakia; (M.G.); (P.S.); (V.T.)
| | - Michal Goga
- Department of Botany, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Šafárik University, Mánesova 23, 041 67 Košice, Slovakia; (M.G.); (P.S.); (V.T.)
| | - Pragya Singh
- Department of Botany, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Šafárik University, Mánesova 23, 041 67 Košice, Slovakia; (M.G.); (P.S.); (V.T.)
| | - Viktória Tuptová
- Department of Botany, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Šafárik University, Mánesova 23, 041 67 Košice, Slovakia; (M.G.); (P.S.); (V.T.)
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Sorce C, Bellini E, Bacchi F, Sanità di Toppi L. Photosynthetic Efficiency of Marchantia polymorpha L. in Response to Copper, Iron, and Zinc. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2776. [PMID: 37570930 PMCID: PMC10420882 DOI: 10.3390/plants12152776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Metal micronutrients are essential for plant nutrition, but their toxicity threshold is low. In-depth studies on the response of light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis to metal micronutrients are needed, and the analysis of chlorophyll a fluorescence transients is a suitable technique. The liverwort Marchantia polymorpha L., a model organism also used in biomonitoring, allowed us to accurately study the effects of metal micronutrients in vivo, particularly the early responses. Gametophytes were treated with copper (Cu), iron (Fe) or zinc (Zn) for up to 120 h. Copper showed the strongest effects, negatively affecting almost the entire light phase of photosynthesis. Iron was detrimental to the flux of energy around photosystem II (PSII), while the acceptor side of PSI was unaltered. The impact of Fe was milder than that of Cu and in both cases the structures of the photosynthetic apparatus that resisted the treatments were still able to operate efficiently. The susceptibility of M. polymorpha to Zn was low: although the metal affected a large part of the electron transport chain, its effects were modest and short-lived. Our results may provide a contribution towards achieving a more comprehensive understanding of response mechanisms to metals and their evolution in plants, and may be useful for supporting the development of biomonitoring techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Sorce
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.S.)
| | - Erika Bellini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.S.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Florinda Bacchi
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.S.)
| | - Luigi Sanità di Toppi
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (C.S.)
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Salbitani G, Maresca V, Cianciullo P, Bossa R, Carfagna S, Basile A. Non-Protein Thiol Compounds and Antioxidant Responses Involved in Bryophyte Heavy-Metal Tolerance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065302. [PMID: 36982378 PMCID: PMC10049163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Heavy-metal pollution represents a problem which has been widely discussed in recent years. The biological effects of heavy metals have been studied in both animals and plants, ranging from oxidative stress to genotoxicity. Plants, above all metal-tolerant species, have evolved a wide spectrum of strategies to counteract exposure to toxic metal concentrations. Among these strategies, the chelation and vacuolar sequestration of heavy metals are, after cell-wall immobilization, the first line of defence that prevent heavy metals from interacting with cell components. Furthermore, bryophytes activate a series of antioxidant non-enzymatic and enzymatic responses to counteract the effects of heavy metal in the cellular compartments. In this review, the role of non-protein thiol compounds and antioxidant molecules in bryophytes will be discussed.
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Landi S, Santini G, Vitale E, Di Natale G, Maisto G, Arena C, Esposito S. Photosynthetic, Molecular and Ultrastructural Characterization of Toxic Effects of Zinc in Caulerpa racemosa Indicate Promising Bioremediation Potentiality. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:2868. [PMID: 36365321 PMCID: PMC9653827 DOI: 10.3390/plants11212868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Caulerpaceae are unconventional green algae composed of multinucleated, single siphonous cells. The species of Caulerpa are acquiring major scientific interest for both their invasion in the Mediterranean ecological niche and for the production of valuable natural metabolites. Furthermore, the abilities of Caulerpa spp. in the biorecovery of polluted waters were recently investigated. Among heavy metal contaminants in marine systems, zinc (Zn) is considered a critical pollutant, progressively accumulating from plastic leachates. In this study, the responses of Caulerpa racemosa to different levels (5-10 mg L-1) of Zn were studied for 14 days under laboratory-controlled conditions. Effects of Zn were monitored by measuring the growth rate, photosynthetic efficiency and gene expression. Moreover, the ability of Caulerpa to remove Zn from seawater was monitored. Zn induced detrimental effects by decreasing the relative growth rate (RGR) and maximal PSII photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm). Moreover, C. racemosa, grown in contaminated seawater, reduced the levels of Zn to a final concentration of 1.026 and 1.932 mg L-1 after 14 days, thus demonstrating efficient uptake. Therefore, our results characterized the effects of zinc on C. racemosa and the possible role of this alga as being effective in the bioremediation of marine seawater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Landi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giorgia Santini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ermenegilda Vitale
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Natale
- Department of Chemistry, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giulia Maisto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Carmen Arena
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Esposito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy
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Anetor GO, Nwobi NL, Igharo GO, Sonuga OO, Anetor JI. Environmental Pollutants and Oxidative Stress in Terrestrial and Aquatic Organisms: Examination of the Total Picture and Implications for Human Health. Front Physiol 2022; 13:931386. [PMID: 35936919 PMCID: PMC9353710 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.931386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is current great international concern about the contribution of environmental pollution to the global burden of disease particularly in the developing, low- and medium-income countries. Industrial activities, urbanization, developmental projects as well as various increased anthropogenic activities involving the improper generation, management and disposal of pollutants have rendered today’s environment highly polluted with various pollutants. These pollutants include toxic metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides and diesel exhaust particles most of which appear to be ubiquitous as well as have long-term environmental persistence with a wide range of toxicities such as oxidative stress among others. Oxidative stress, which may arise from increased production of damaging free radicals emanating from increased pollutant burden and depressed bioavailability of antioxidant defenses causes altered biochemical and physiological mechanisms and has been implicated in all known human pathologies most of which are chronic. Oxidative stress also affects both flora and fauna and plants are very important components of the terrestrial environment and significant contributors of nutrients for both man and animals. It is also remarkable that the aquatic environment in which sea animals and creatures are resident is also highly polluted, leading to aquatic stress that may affect the survival of the aquatic animals, sharing in the oxidative stress. These altered terrestrial and aquatic environments have an overarching effect on human health. Antioxidants neutralize the damaging free radicals thus, they play important protective roles in the onset, progression and severity of the unmitigated generation of pollutants that ultimately manifest as oxidative stress. Consequently, human health as well as that of aquatic and terrestrial organisms may be protected from environmental pollution by mitigating oxidative stress and employing the principles of nutritional medicine, essentially based on antioxidants derived mainly from plants, which serve as the panacea of the vicious state of environmental pollutants consequently, the health of the population. Understanding the total picture of oxidative stress and integrating the terrestrial and aquatic effects of environmental pollutants are central to sustainable health of the population and appear to require multi-sectoral collaborations from diverse disciplinary perspectives; basically the environmental, agricultural and health sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Oiyahumen Anetor
- Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Nnenna Linda Nwobi
- Department of Chemical Pathology, BenCarson School of Medicine, Babcock University, Ilishan, Nigeria
| | - Godwin Osaretin Igharo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin, Nigeria
| | | | - John Ibhagbemien Anetor
- Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: John Ibhagbemien Anetor,
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Printarakul N, Meeinkuirt W. The bryophyte community as bioindicator of heavy metals in a waterfall outflow. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6942. [PMID: 35484326 PMCID: PMC9050711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10980-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The species diversity and heavy metal accumulation in bryophytes were determined in Huay Pah Lahd stream in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Thailand. Eight bryophytes from two major taxonomic groupings (epilithic mosses and liverworts) were investigated. Of these, Fissidens crispulus var. crispulus was the most dominant taxon with an importance value (IV) of 28.98%, while Ectropothecium zollingeri, Claopodium prionophyllum, and Hyophila involuta were also dominant taxa with IV ≥ 10%. Scopelophila cataractae, a rare moss species with the lowest IV (0.91%) had the greatest capacity to accumulate metals in tissue, particularly Fe, Zn, Cd and Cu in protonemata (8026.7, 1187.2, 16.9 and 530.1 mg kg−1, respectively). The highest enrichment factors (EFs) of Zn, Cd and Cu (5.3, 2.4 and 0.9, respectively) were also found in S. cataractae, while the highest EFMn (1.1) was found in H. involuta. Enrichment factors of most heavy metals were < 5 from the study bryophytes, which suggests that natural processes were the key source of heavy metals. Dilution effects caused by increased water volume during the rainy season may be responsible for low pollutant loads and the maintenance of good water quality in this waterfall stream, which is favorable for biota and general environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narin Printarakul
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Research Center in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Weeradej Meeinkuirt
- Water and Soil Environmental Research Unit, Nakhonsawan Campus, Mahidol University, Nakhonsawan, 60130, Thailand.
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