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Symbiotic Fungus Serendipita indica as a Natural Bioenhancer Against Cadmium Toxicity in Chinese Cabbage

Summary

This research shows that a beneficial fungus called Serendipita indica can help Chinese cabbage plants survive cadmium contamination. When the fungus colonizes plant roots, it triggers the plant’s natural defense systems to produce protective compounds and reduce heavy metal damage. This finding offers farmers an eco-friendly, biological solution for growing vegetables safely in contaminated soils without harmful chemical treatments.

Background

Heavy metal toxicity, particularly cadmium (Cd), poses a significant threat to agriculture and human health due to its persistence and high solubility. Beneficial microorganisms such as endophytic fungi have emerged as promising eco-friendly strategies to mitigate heavy metal toxicity in plants.

Objective

This study investigates the potential of the root-colonizing fungus Serendipita indica to mitigate cadmium stress in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. subsp. Pekinensis) grown hydroponically. The research evaluated morphological traits, physiological and biochemical responses, and changes in leaf composition under varying cadmium concentrations.

Results

Cadmium exposure significantly reduced plant growth and nutrient uptake while increasing membrane damage and oxidative stress markers. S. indica inoculation improved plant tolerance to cadmium stress by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and superoxide dismutase), accumulating osmolytes (proline and glycine betaine), enhancing nutrient uptake, and maintaining stomatal functionality.

Conclusion

S. indica demonstrates significant potential as a natural bioenhancer to mitigate cadmium toxicity in Chinese cabbage. The fungus enhances plant resilience through activation of the antioxidant defense system and modulation of reactive oxygen species, offering a promising biological strategy for sustainable crop production in heavy metal-contaminated environments.
  • Published in:Plants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40941938
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