Beyond contamination: Enhancing plant tolerance to arsenic through phytobial remediation

Abstract

Arsenic (As), a naturally occurring metalloid with potential harmful effects, is categorized as a group 1 carcinogen and is discharged into the soil and environment through both natural processes and various human activities. Elevated levels of As, particularly, in soil and water contribute to As accumulation in plants/crops. Consumption of these contaminated plants or plant parts exposes millions of individuals to significant health risks. Addressing the current environmental challenges posed by As contamination, phytobial remediation is a cutting-edge technique that employs the combined use of plants and microbes to effectively tackle the issue of environmental pollution caused by As. In recent times, there has been significant acclaim for plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)/fungi in the field of phytoremediation, as it not only enhances plant metal tolerance but also stimulates plant growth. This approach holds immense potential for achieving extensive removal of As on a large scale from contaminated water sources and agricultural lands. This review consolidates evidence supporting the efficacy of plant-microbe partnerships in augmenting the tolerance thresholds of host plants. By shedding light on the capacity of these advantageous microorganisms, the review underscores their pivotal role in facilitating the adaptation of plants to arsenic-contaminated environments. In doing so, it contributes to the evolving discourse on sustainable strategies for mitigating the environmental and health impacts of As contamination.