Single/joint effects of pyrene and heavy metals in contaminated soils on the growth and physiological response of maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.).

ABSTRACT: The widespread presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and toxic heavy metals in soils is having harmful effects on food crops and the environment. However, the defense mechanisms and capacity of plants to counteract these substances have not been comprehensively explored, necessitating a systematic categorization of their inhibitory effects. Accordingly, an experimental investigation was conducted to examine the growth and physiological response of maize (Zea mays L.) to different concentrations and combinations of pyrene, copper (Cu), and cadmium (Cd), with an indicator developed to assess the joint stress. The results showed that 57-day culture with contaminations significantly inhibited the plant biomass via causing root cell necrosis, inducing lipid peroxidation, an

SUBMITTER: Wang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11648570 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature