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Bioaccumulation and physiological changes in the fruiting body of Agaricus bisporus (Large) sing in response to cadmium

Summary

This research shows that button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) can absorb and accumulate harmful cadmium from contaminated soil. When exposed to cadmium stress, the mushrooms increase their protective chemical defenses, including antioxidant enzymes and organic acids, to survive the toxic conditions. The study demonstrates that these edible mushrooms could potentially be used as a practical and cost-effective method to clean up cadmium-polluted soils.

Background

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic trace metal with global environmental contamination concerns. Traditional remediation methods are costly and unsustainable, making bioremediation via macrofungi a promising alternative. Agaricus bisporus has shown potential for cadmium accumulation and could serve as a cost-effective biosorbent.

Objective

This study investigated the bioremediation potential of A. bisporus to cadmium contamination and examined physiological and biochemical changes in fruiting bodies under Cd stress. The research focused on tolerance responses during different developmental stages of fruiting body formation.

Results

A. bisporus accumulated Cd preferentially in the cap (up to 18.38 mg kg⁻¹) compared to the stipe. Cd stress increased soluble protein, proline, and malonaldehyde content while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities, particularly at the closed cup stage. The fungus produced increased low molecular weight organic acids to chelate and detoxify cadmium.

Conclusion

A. bisporus demonstrates tolerance to high Cd stress and effectively accumulates cadmium through metabolic modulation including increased antioxidant responses and organic acid production. These findings establish the species as a promising hyperaccumulator for remediation of Cd-contaminated soils with practical applicability.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-022-24561-3, PMID: 36418499
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