Harnessing the Potential of Mycorrhizae in Phytoremediation Copper (Cu) from Soil

The use of plants to remove toxins from the soil, water, and air, known as phytoremediation, is a significant and expanding field of study. Using arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMFs) is one promising strategy for improving the efficiency of phytoremediation. With the help of these fungi, the roots of the plants can absorb more nutrients and are shielded from biotic and abiotic stress. AMF can progress the capacity of the plants to absorb and break down heavy metals like copper, by extending their hyphal network in the soil, expanding the area for copper absorption. Such fungi aid in the transportation of copper ions from soil to plants, making them available for the various metabolic events in plants. Effective sequestration of copper ions in the mycelium prevents the metal from leaching into the groundwater and spreading in the soil. It further activates various transporters, specifically chelators, rendering the ions less toxic to the plants. Copper concentrations that are too high impact the physiological and morphological aspects of plants, leading to oxidative stress and cell toxicity. Moreover, arbuscular mycorrhiza fungus (AMF) participation is critical in the field of copper phytoremediation. Through its impact on soil structure and water retention, AMF plays a crucial role in enhancing the soil ecosystem, leading to improved soil fertility and greater agricultural output. AMF’s potential for copper phytoremediation is further enhanced by its capacity to enhance plant nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and root system development. AMF’s potential for cleaning up copper-contaminated areas will eventually result in more sustainable and clean farming methods. However, because of its possible advantages, this method is an intriguing one to investigate and improve further in the field of soil remediation.