Biogeochemical cycling, tolerance mechanism and phytoremediation strategies of boron in plants: A critical review

Chemosphere. 2022 Aug:300:134505. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134505. Epub 2022 Apr 5.

Abstract

Boron (B) is an inimitable plant micronutrient, predominantly distinguished by super-narrow range between its deficiency and toxicity concentrations, which depends upon boron speciation in the growth media and form of living organisms. Moreover, the significant variations in its mobility amid different species, and distinctive inter and intra-species responses to extreme concentrations. Therefore, it is necessary to screen the bioavailability, speciation, biogeochemical cycling and exposure pathways of boron in the environment. The genes involved in the tolerance mechanism of boron in different plants were discussed in the current review paper. The functions related to scarcity and excess of boron concentration are assessed. The diverse plants implicated in phytoremediation of boron contaminated sites that restrict boron accumulation in food crops and health risks associated with soils containing deficit or surplus boron concentration were appraised. Ultimately, a summary of numerous strategies involved in the recovery and repair of boron-contaminated soils have been reviewed.

Keywords: Biogeochemical cycling; Boron; Deficiency; Functions; Health effects; Phytoremediation; Toxicity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biodegradation, Environmental
  • Boron* / metabolism
  • Boron* / toxicity
  • Crops, Agricultural / metabolism
  • Soil / chemistry
  • Soil Pollutants* / analysis

Substances

  • Soil
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Boron