Heavy metal contaminated soil is a common environmental pollution problem, which has a negative impact. The potential for the phytoremediation has been widely recognized. This study investigated the mechanisms of cadmium (Cd) absorption in Suaeda heteroptera Kitag., a dominant wetland plant in northern China. A hydroponic experiment was carried out to determine the Cd content in S. heteroptera roots after adding ion channel inhibitors and metabolic inhibitors. Furthermore, subcellular distribution and chemical forms of Cd in S. heteroptera were investigated. The results showed that Cd was mainly absorbed by S. heteroptera roots through calcium ion channels. Cd absorption by S. heteroptera roots was closely associated with the P-type ATPase, suggesting that Cd was actively absorbed by S. heteroptera roots. Cell wall precipitation and vacuole compartmentalization were the major mechanisms underlying absorption and tolerance to Cd. Cd in S. heteroptera root system was predominantly bound to proteins, pectinate, and phosphates, thereby reducing its toxicity. However, Cd was transformed into a highly active form and became more toxic at high concentrations.
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