Tobacco as an efficient metal accumulator

Abstract

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is an important industrial crop plant. However, it efficiently accumulates metals, primarily cadmium (Cd) and also zinc (Zn), in its leaves. Therefore, it could be a source of cadmium intake by smokers. On the other hand, as a high leaf metal accumulator, it is widely used for phytoremediation of metal-contaminated soil. Both issues provide an important rationale for investigating the processes regulating metal homeostasis in tobacco. This work summarizes the results of research to date on the understanding of the molecular mechanisms determining the effective uptake of Zn and Cd, their translocation into shoots and accumulation in leaves. It also discusses the current state of research to improve the phytoremediation properties of tobacco through genetic modification and to limit leaf Cd content for the tobacco industry. Graphical Abstract

Untested, Unsafe? Cannabis Users Show Higher Lead and Cadmium Levels

“… Cannabis is one of more than 700 hyperaccumulators of metals—from soils, water, fertilizers, or pesticides—that have been identified to date, 19 along with barley, 20 sunflowers, 21 and tobacco. 22 Image: © iStock.com/AlenaPaulus. …”