Effect of iron plaque on antimony uptake by rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Toxicity of antimony to plants: Effects on metabolism of N and S in a rice plant

Excess antimony (Sb) has been shown to damage plant growth. Rice plants readily absorb a large amount of Sb after a long period of flooding, yet the mechanisms underlying Sb toxicity in plants have not been solved. This study was conducted to explore the effects of Sb on the uptake of N and S, and monitor the concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) and enzymes associated with these processes. In addition, we analyzed differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) correlated with amino acids (AAs) and oligopeptides, specifically DEMs containing sulfur (S), GSH and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The results showed that antimonite [Sb(III)] inhibited shoot growth whereas antimonate [Sb(V)] stimulated shoot growth. Interestingly, Sb(III)5/10 enhanced shoot concentrations of total nitrogen (N), NH4+-N [only at Sb(III)10] and S; but reduced the shoot concentrations of NO3-N and soluble protein. Sb(III)5/10 addition significantly increased oxidized glutathione (GSSG) concentration and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) but non-significantly affected concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) and activities of γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCL) and glutathione reductase (GR), suggesting Sb(III) restricted GSH recycling. Addition of Sb (1) increased the abundance of DEMs associated with lignins, Ca uptake, toxicity/detoxification, and branched chain AAs; (2) decreased the abundance of AAs inclcuding isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), tryptophan (Trp), tyrosine (Tyr) and histidine (His); (3) increased the abundance of arginine (Arg), putrescine (Put) and spermidine (Spd); and (4) affected methylation and acetylation of many AAs, especially acetylation.

Insights into the biogeochemical transformation, environmental impacts and biochar-based soil decontamination of antimony

Every year, a significant amount of antimony (Sb) enters the environment from natural and anthropogenic sources like mining, smelting, industrial operations, ore processing, vehicle emissions, shooting activities, and coal power plants. Humans, plants, animals, and aquatic life are heavily exposed to hazardous Sb or antimonide by either direct consumption or indirect exposure to Sb in the environment. This review summarizes the current knowledge about Sb global occurrence, its fate, distribution, speciation, associated health hazards, and advanced biochar composites studies used for the remediation of soil contaminated with Sb to lessen Sb bioavailability and toxicity in soil. Anionic metal(loid) like Sb in the soil is significantly immobilized by pristine biochar and its composites, reducing their bioavailability. However, a comprehensive review of the impacts of biochar-based composites on soil Sb remediation is needed. Therefore, the current review focuses on (1) the fundamental aspects of Sb global occurrence, global soil Sb contamination, its transformation in soil, and associated health hazards, (2) the role of different biochar-based composites in the immobilization of Sb from soil to increase biochar applicability toward Sb decontamination. The review aids in developing advanced, efficient, and effective engineered biochar composites for Sb remediation by evaluating novel materials and techniques and through sustainable management of Sb-contaminated soil, ultimately reducing its environmental and health risks.

The role of an Sb-oxidizing bacterium in modulating antimony speciation and iron plaque formation to reduce the accumulation and toxicity of Sb in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Microbial antimony (Sb) oxidation in the root rhizosphere and the formation of iron plaque (IP) on the root surface are considered as two separate strategies to mitigate Sb(III) phytotoxicity. Here, the effect of an Sb-oxidizing bacterium Bacillus sp. S3 on IP characteristics of rice exposed to Sb(III) and its alleviating effects on plant growth were investigated. The results revealed that Fe(II) supply promoted IP formation under Sb(III) stress. However, the formed IP facilitated rather than hindered the uptake of Sb by rice roots. In contrast, the combined application of Fe(II) and Bacillus sp. S3 effectively alleviated Sb(III) toxicity in rice, resulting in improved rice growth and photosynthesis, reduced oxidative stress levels, enhanced antioxidant systems, and restricted Sb uptake and translocation. Despite the ability of Bacillus sp. S3 to oxidize Fe(II), bacterial inoculation inhibited the formation of IP, resulting in a reduction in Sb absorption on IP and uptake into the roots. Additionally, the bacterial inoculum enhanced the transformation of Sb(III) to less toxic Sb(V) in the culture solution, further influencing the adsorption of Sb onto IP. These findings highlight the potential of combining microbial Sb oxidation and IP as an effective strategy for minimizing Sb toxicity in sustainable rice production systems.

Formation of Sb2O3 microcrystals by Rhodotorula mucilaginosa

Antimony (Sb) pollution seriously endangers ecological environment and human health. Microbial induced mineralization can effectively convert metal ions into more stable and less soluble crystalline minerals by extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). In this study, an efficient Sb-resistant Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (R. mucilaginosa) was screened, which can resist 41 mM Sb(III) and directly transform Sb(III) into Sb2O3 microcrystals by EPS. The removal efficiency of R. mucilaginosa for 22 mM Sb(III) reached 70% by converting Sb(III) to Sb2O3. The components of supernatants as well as the effects of supernatants and pH on Sb(III) mineralization verified that inducible and non-inducible extracellular protein/polysaccharide biomacromolecules play important roles in the morphologies and sizes control of Sb2O3 formed by R. mucilaginosa respectively. Sb2O3 microcrystals with different morphologies and sizes can be prepared by the regulation of inducible and non-inducible extracellular biomacromolecules secreted by R. mucilaginosa. This is the first time to identify that R. mucilaginosa can remove Sb(III) by transforming Sb(III) into Sb2O3 microcrystals under the control of EPS. This study contributes to our understanding for Sb(III) biomineralization mechanisms and provides strategies for the remediation of Sb-contaminated environment.

Role of iron manganese plaque in the safe production of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grains: Field evidence at plot and regional scales in cadmium-contaminated paddy soils

The relationship between iron manganese plaque (IP) and cadmium (Cd) accumulation by rice in the microenvironment of rice rhizosphere at varying field scales needs to be further explored. In this study, we selected different rice varieties and implemented tailored amendments to ensure the safe production of rice grains in heavily Cd-contaminated farmland situated around an E-waste dismantling site. Through regional surveys, we elucidated the role of IP in facilitating safe rice production. The selection of low-Cd accumulating rice varieties and application of appropriate amendments with sufficient dosages allowed for the effective reduction of Cd transport from soil to rice, resulting in a safe concentration of Cd in rice grains. Analysis using a random forest algorithm indicated that iron (Fe) played a more pivotal role than manganese in soil-rice systems in mitigating Cd accumulation in brown rice. The presence of Fe in IP (IP-Fe) at a low loading mass was unfavorable to the Cd-safe production of rice, while at an IP-Fe loading mass of 52 g/kg, the Cd content in brown rice decreased to a safe level. Furthermore, precipitation, coprecipitation, and complexation of surface functional groups contributed to Cd fixation on IP, as indicated by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection. Our results highlighted the key role of IP in the production of Cd-safe rice at different field scales.

Iron plaque formation, characteristics, and its role as a barrier and/or facilitator to heavy metal uptake in hydrophyte rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The persistent bioavailability of toxic metal(oids) (TM) is undeniably the leading source of serious environmental problems. Through the transfer of these contaminants into food networks, sediments and the aquatic environmental pollution by TM serve as key routes for potential risks to soil and human health. The formation of iron oxyhydroxide plaque (IP) on the root surface of hydrophytes, particularly rice, has been linked to the impact of various abiotic and biotic factors. Radial oxygen loss has been identified as a key driver for the oxidation of rhizosphere ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) and its subsequent precipitation as low-to-high crystalline and/or amorphous Fe minerals on root surfaces as IP. Considering that each plant species has its unique capability of creating an oxidised rhizosphere under anaerobic conditions, the abundance of rhizosphere Fe²⁺, functional groups from organic matter decomposition and variations in binding capacities of Fe oxides, thus, impacting the mobility and interaction of several contaminants as well as toxic/non-toxic metals on the specific surface areas of the IP. More insight from wet extraction and advanced synchrotron-based analytical techniques has provided further evidence on how IP formation could significantly affect the fate of plant physiology and biomass production, particularly in contaminated settings. Collectively, this information sets the stage for the possible implementation of IP and related analytical protocols as a strategic framework for the management of rice and other hydrophytes, particularly in contaminated sceneries. Other confounding variables involved in IP formation, as well as operational issues related to some advanced analytical processes, should be considered.

The role of nickel in cadmium accumulation in rice

Rice is one of the world's staple foods. Cadmium (Cd) levels in paddy soil are still increasing, and "Cd-contaminated rice" is a frequent occurrence, posing a serious threat to human health. Therefore, Cd contamination in rice is a key issue in agricultural production that needs to be addressed urgently. The Cd accumulation in rice is closely related to other elements. In this study, the impact of nickel (Ni) on the uptake and accumulation of Cd in rice was revealed, and the mechanism was discussed. Statistical analysis of field data showed that Cd concentration in rice grains decreased exponentially with increasing Ni concentration in paddy soils, which was verified by the hydroponic experiments. Under 5 μmol/L Cd exposure conditions, the addition of Ni (100 μmol/L) reduced the Cd contents in roots, stems, and leaves by 81.6 %, 60.6 %, and 65.9 %, respectively. With the presence of Ni, the amount of iron plaque decreased, and the Cd content in the iron plaque was reduced due to the competition between Ni and Cd for adsorption sites. In addition, the migration of Cd from stems to leaves was reduced. At the same time, the distribution of Cd in the cell was altered, and the concentration of Cd in the root cell walls increased with increasing Ni addition under 5 μmol/L Cd exposure. These findings highlight the critical role of Ni in inhibiting Cd accumulation in rice, and provide important information for understanding the effects of coexisting elements in Cd-contaminated soils on Cd accumulation in crops.

Prediction of the concentration of antimony in agricultural soil using data fusion, terrain attributes combined with regression kriging

Potentially toxic elements in agricultural soils are primarily derived from anthropogenic and geogenic sources. This study aims to predict and map antimony (Sb) concentration in soil using multiple regression kriging in two distinct modeling approaches, namely Sb prediction using data fusion coupled with regression kriging (scenario 1) and Sb prediction using data fusion, terrain attributes, and regression kriging (scenario 2). Cubist regression kriging (cubist_RK), conditional inference forest regression kriging (CIF_RK), extreme gradient boosting regression kriging (EGB_RK) and random forest regression kriging (RF_RK) were the modeling techniques used in the estimation of Sb concentration in agricultural soil. The validation results suggested that in scenario 1, EGB_RK was the optimal modeling approach for Sb prediction in agricultural soil with root mean square error (RMSE) = 1.31 and mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.61, bias = 0.37, and high coefficient of determination R² = 0.81. Similarly, the EGB_RK was also the optimal modeling approach in scenario 2, with the highest R² = 0.76, RMSE = 0.90, bias = 0.06, and MAE = 0.48 values than the other regression kriging modeling approaches. The cumulative assessment suggested that the EGB_RK in scenario 2 yielded optimal results compared to the respective modeling approach in scenario 1. The uncertainty propagated by the modeling approaches in both scenarios indicated that the degree of uncertainty during the modeling process was distributed across the study area from a low to a moderate uncertainty level. However, cubist_RK in scenario 2 exhibited some elevated spots of uncertainty levels. As a result, the combination of data fusion, terrain attributes, and regression kriging modeling approaches produces optimal results with a high R² value, minimal errors as well as bias. Furthermore, combining terrain attributes with data fusion is promising for reducing model error, bias and yielding high-accuracy predictions.

Effects of antimony stress on growth, structure, enzyme activity and metabolism of Nipponbare rice (Oryza sativa L.) roots

Some antimony (Sb) contaminated areas are used for rice cultivation in response to economic demands. However, little is known about the effects of Sb stress on the growth and metabolism of rice roots. Thus, a hydroponic experiment was carried out on the growth, root anatomy, enzyme activity, and metabolism of Nipponbare rice (Oryza sativa L. ssp. japonica cv. Nipponbare) under varying levels of Sb (III) stress (0 mg L^-1, 10 mg L^-1, and 50 mg L^-1). With the increase of Sb concentration, rice root length and root fresh weight declined by 67.8 % and 90.5 % for 10 mg L^-1 Sb stress and 94.1 % and 98.4 % for 50 mg L^-1 Sb stress, respectively. Anatomical analysis of cross-sections of Sb-treated roots showed an increase in cell wall thickness and an increase in the number of cell mitochondria. The 10 mg L^-1 and 50 mg L^-1 Sb stress increased the activity of enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) in root cells by 1.94 and 2.40 times, respectively. Compared to the control, 10 mg L^-1 Sb treatment increased the activity of catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD), as well as the concentrations of antioxidant glutathione (GSH) in the root by 1.46, 1.38, and 0.52 times, respectively. However, 50 mg L^-1 Sb treatment significantly decreased the activity or content of CAT, POD and GSH by 28.1 %, 13.5 % and 28.2 %, respectively. Nontargeted LC/MS-based metabolomics analysis identified 23 and 13 significantly differential metabolites in rice roots exposed to 10 mg L^-1 and 50 mg L^-1 Sb, respectively, compared to the control. These differential metabolites were involved in four main metabolic pathways including the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), butanoate metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism. Taken together, these findings indicate that Sb stress destroys the structure of rice roots, changes the activity of enzymes, and affects the metabolic pathway, thereby reducing the growth of rice roots and leading to toxicity.

Impact of Biochars on the Iron Plaque Formation and the Antimony Accumulation in Rice Seedings

Biochar was a kind of restoration material for soil pollution. Investigation about biochar amendment on the Sb transformation in rice plants is scarce. The pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of biochar on the iron plaque formation in Sb-contaminated soil, and the translocation and accumulation of Sb in rice seedings. After the straw and husk biochar amendments (5% by weight), the levels increased on average by 20.0% and 16.0% for exchangeable Sb in soil, and by 233.3% and 74.8% for soluble Sb in pore water, respectively; but the residual fractions of Sb decreased by 18.5% and 15.1%. The iron plaque formation on rice root surface was enhanced, but its sequestration capacity for Sb decreased due to increasing competition for binding sites led by the elevated phosphorus and silicon levels in pore water after biochar application. The shoot Sb content sharply increased by 215.8% upon straw biochar application.

Impact of physiochemical properties, microbes and biochar on bioavailability of toxic elements in the soil: a review

The pollution of toxic elements (TEs) in the ecosystem exhibits detrimental effects on the human health. In this paper, we debated remediation approaches for TEs polluted soils via immobilization methods employing numerous amendments with reverence to type of soil and metals, and amendment, immobilization competence, fundamental processes and field applicability. We argued the influence of pH, soil organic matter, textural properties, microbes, speciation and biochar on the bioavailability of TEs. All these properties of soil, microbes and biochar are imperative for effective and safe application of these methods in remediation of TEs contamination in the ecosystem. Further, the application of physiochemical properties, microbes and biochar as amendments has significant synergistic impacts not only on absorption of elements but also on diminution of toxic elements.

Toxic effects of antimony in plants: Reasons and remediation possibilities-A review and future prospects

Antimony (Sb) is a dangerous heavy metal (HM) that poses a serious threat to the health of plants, animals, and humans. Leaching from mining wastes and weathering of sulfide ores are the major ways of introducing Sb into our soils and aquatic environments. Crops grown on Sb-contaminated soils are a major reason of Sb entry into humans by eating Sb-contaminated foods. Sb toxicity in plants reduces seed germination and root and shoot growth, and causes substantial reduction in plant growth and final productions. Moreover, Sb also induces chlorosis, causes damage to the photosynthetic apparatus, reduces membrane stability and nutrient uptake, and increases oxidative stress by increasing reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing plant growth and development. The threats induced by Sb toxicity and Sb concentration in soils are increasing day by day, which would be a major risk to crop production and human health. Additionally, the lack of appropriate measures regarding the remediation of Sb-contaminated soils will further intensify the current situation. Therefore, future research must be aimed at devising appropriate measures to mitigate the hazardous impacts of Sb toxicity on plants, humans, and the environment and to prevent the entry of Sb into our ecosystem. We have also described the various strategies to remediate Sb-contaminated soils to prevent its entry into the human food chain. Additionally, we also identified the various research gaps that must be addressed in future research programs. We believe that this review will help readers to develop the appropriate measures to minimize the toxic effects of Sb and its entry into our ecosystem. This will ensure the proper food production on Sb-contaminated soils.

Antimony redox processes in the environment: A critical review of associated oxidants and reductants

The environmental behavior of antimony (Sb) has recently received greater attention due to the increasing global use of Sb in a range of industrial applications. Although present at trace levels in most natural systems, elevated Sb concentrations in aquatic and terrestrial environments may result from anthropogenic activities. The mobility and toxicity of Sb largely depend on its speciation, which is dependent to a large extent on its oxidation state. To a certain extent, our understanding of the environmental behavior of Sb has been informed by studies of the environmental behavior of arsenic (As), as Sb and As have somewhat similar chemical properties. However, recently it has become evident that the speciation of Sb and As, especially in the context of redox reactions, may be fundamentally different. Therefore, it is crucial to study the biogeochemical processes impacting Sb redox transformations to understand the behavior of Sb in natural and engineered environments. Currently, there is a growing body of literature involving the speciation, mobility, toxicity, and remediation of Sb, and several reviews on these general topics are available; however, a comprehensive review focused on Sb environmental redox chemistry is lacking. This paper provides a review of research conducted within the past two decades examining the redox chemistry of Sb in aquatic and terrestrial environments and identifies knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to develop a better understanding of Sb biogeochemistry for improved management of Sb in natural and engineered systems.

The impact of alternate wetting and drying and continuous flooding on antimony speciation and uptake in a soil-rice system

The accumulation of trace elements in rice, such as antimony (Sb), has drawn special attention owing to the potential increased risk to human health. However, the effects of two common irrigation methods, alternate wetting and drying and continuous flooding, on Sb behaviors and subsequent accumulation in rice is unclear. In this study a pot experiment with various Sb additions (0, 50, 200, 1000 mg Sb kg^-1) was carried out with these two irrigation methods in two contrasting paddy soils (an Anthrosol and a Ferralic Cambisol). The dynamics of Sb in soil porewater indicated that continuous flooding generally immobilized more Sb than alternate wetting and drying, concomitant with a pronounced reduction of Sb(V) in porewater. However, a higher phytoavailable fraction of Sb was observed under continuous flooding. The content of Sb in the rice plant decreased in the order of root > shoot > husk > grain, and continuous flooding facilitated Sb accumulation in rice root and shoot as compared with alternate wetting and drying. The differences of Sb content in root, shoot, and husk between the two irrigation methods was smaller in aboveground parts, and almost no difference in Sb was observed in grain between the two methods. The findings of this study facilitates the understanding of Sb speciation and behavior in soils with these common yet different water management regimes.

Continuous flooding stimulates root iron plaque formation and reduces chromium accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Chromium (Cr) contamination in rice poses a serious threat to human health. Therefore, we conducted pot experiments to investigate the influence of water management regimes on the formation of iron plaque on rice roots, and its effect on the accumulation and translocation of Cr in rice grown on contaminated soil. The results showed that water management regimes, including continuous and intermittent flooding, exerted notable effects on soil solution concentrations of Cr(VI) and Cr(III) through changes in redox potential, pH, and dissolved Fe(II) concentrations. In particular, 69.2%-71.8% of Cr(VI) was reduced to Cr(III) under continuous flooding, whereas only 33.3%-38.6% was reduced under intermittent flooding conditions. Additionally, continuous flooding created a rhizosphere environment favorable to the formation of iron plaque. The amount of iron plaque formed increased by 28.2%-47.2% under continuous flooding conditions as compared with that under intermittent flooding conditions. Moreover, compared with intermittent flooding, under continuous flooding, more Cr (18.0%-23.9%) was adsorbed in the iron plaque, thereby sequestering Cr and reducing its mobility. The Cr concentrations in rice root, straw, husk, and grain under continuous flooding conditions were, respectively, 32.0%-36.5%, 32.7%-36.3%, 34.2%-46.9%, and 25.4%-37.7% lower than those under intermittent flooding conditions. Therefore, continuous flooding caused a substantial decrease in the Cr concentrations in rice tissues, as well as an increased distribution of Cr in the iron plaque that acted as a barrier to reduce Cr transfer to the rice roots. These results indicate that continuous flooding irrigation was effective in minimizing the accumulation of Cr in rice plants, as it not only enhanced Cr(VI) reduction in the soil but also improved the blocking capacity of the iron plaque.

Fe-Mn Plaque Formation Mechanism Underlying the Inhibition of Cadmium Absorption by Rice Under Oxygation Conditions

Oxygation (O) is a water-saving and energy-saving irrigation method that can also influence the absorption of cadmium (Cd) by rice, but the related mechanism is still unclear. In this study, the relationship between O method and Fe-Mn plaque formation was tested through pot experiments. The Fe-Mn plaque content and Cd concentration were measured during different rice growth periods, and the fitted models based on their correlation were established. The results show that, Fe-Mn plaque formation was the most significant factor affecting Cd accumulation in rice under O conditions. The content of rice root Fe-Mn plaque was higher after the application of O during the filling and maturity stages of rice growth, and Fe-Mn plaque inhibited Cd accumulation in the rice roots and grains and reduced the translocation factors (TFs) from the rice dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate extract (DCB) to the roots (TF_DCB-R) and from the roots to the straw (TF_Straw-G). O may influence the Fe-Mn plaque formation on the root surface to impede Cd absorption by rice. This research provides theoretical support for the Cd absorption under O conditions.

Effects of iron plaque and fatty acids on the transfer of BDE-209 from soil to rice under iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation condition

To understand the effect mechanisms of iron plaque and fatty acids on the migration of PBDEs from soil to rice (Oryza sativa), pot experiments were conducted in the soil spiked with decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) under the conditions of tourmaline and nano-goethite Fenton-like treatments. The results showed that iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation could effectively remove BDE-209 from rhizosphere soil, the highest removal rate obtained 89.29% with the addition of 0.4 mmol/L H₂O₂ and 8 g nano-goethite (G + 3H group). Iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation could produce iron plaque (IP) on rice roots and accumulate a part of contaminants on the surface of IP, further weakening BDE-209 uptake in the plants. Additionally, the occurrence of fatty acid variation induced by BDE-209 stress, iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation at high concentrations of H₂O₂ with 0.4 mmol/L affected the distribution of fatty acids in plant tissues, especially for C_18:0 fatty acid. While the IP on rice roots prevented the BDE-209 into plant, it was also closely related to the distribution of fatty acids in rice, altering BDE-209 accumulation in the rice. To safely use the iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation in the agricultural soil remediation, the safety of plant cells treated by mineral Fenton-like oxidation was evaluated using the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and enzyme activity determination, which indicated that iron mineral Fenton-like oxidation would destroy the inner structures of plant cells, especially for G + 3H group.

Investigation of the antimony fractions and indigenous microbiota in aerobic and anaerobic rice paddies

The accumulation of antimony (Sb) by rice is a severe threat to exposed populations. Previous studies demonstrated that, compared to flooded (anaerobic) water management, dry cultivation management (aerobic) could substantially decrease As, an analog of Sb, uptake by rice. However, the effects of different water management strategies on the accumulation of Sb by rice are less understood. It is proposed that microorganisms play an important role in regulating Sb mobility in rice paddies. Hence, the current study compared the microbial communities in rice paddies receiving different water management, i.e., flooded (anaerobic) and dry (aerobic)) rice cultivation. Significant decrease in Sb uptake by rice, in both the roots and grains, was observed under the aerobic compared to the anaerobic conditions. This could partially be attributed to the differences in the microbial communities as shaped by the redox environment. In aerobic soils, the gene responsible for Sb oxidation (i.e., aioA) was significantly, while in anaerobic soils the gene responsible for Sb reduction (i.e., arrA) was enriched, suggesting that variation in redox conditions may trigger different microbial responses. Accordingly, geochemical analysis indicated that accumulation of Sb(III) was only observed under anaerobic conditions, but not under aerobic conditions. The environment-microbe interactions were distinct between the two treatments with a greater number of interactions between Sb fractions and the microbial assemblage under anaerobic conditions, while Eh was the most influential geochemical parameter under aerobic conditions. Finally, the presence of a core microbiome under the two conditions suggested the possibility of microorganisms that support rice growth, nutrition, and health. The reduction of Sb in rice grain significantly decreases Sb exposure to the residents in Sb contaminated regions, and should be considered for future rice cultivation practices.

Study on antimony mobility in a contaminated shallow lake sediment using the diffusive gradients in thin films technique

Antimony is a priority environmental contaminant. Increasing attention is being paid to the behaviors and mobilities of the various Sb species in the environment. Sb speciation in the environment and the mobilities of Sb species at mining sites have been studied well, but Sb speciation and mobility in shallow lakes requires further study. Here, we studied Sb behavior in sediment of a shallow lake in the plain rivers network in Taihu Basin that suffers continual Sb inputs from textile plants. The diffusive gradients in thin films techniques (DGT) made of zirconium oxide based binding resin gel (ZrO-Chelex), agarose diffusive gel and polyvinylidene fluoride filter were deployed in water and sediment to obtain a high-resolution record in situ. The results indicated that (1) pollutants released by textile plants caused relatively high Sb(Ⅲ), Sb(Ⅴ) and organoantimony concentrations in the eutrophic shallow lake, (2) Sb was seldomly mobile in the oxic layer where Sb(Ⅲ) was sorbed on Fe(Ⅲ) oxides and gradually formed Fe-Sb complexes in the sediment, but in the anoxic environment (oxidation-reduction potential: 366 - -344 mv) Sb(V), Fe(Ⅱ) and P (V) were simultaneously released to resupply the porewater, (3) the release of Sb from solid phase is decided by the redox condition, and the rate of release is dependent on the labile Sb content of the sediment. The mobility of Sb should be given sufficient attention when the potential ecological risk of metal(loid)s in shallow lakes and wetlands sediment are evaluated.

Underlying mechanisms responsible for restriction of uptake and translocation of heavy metals (metalloids) by selenium via root application in plants

Since selenium (Se) was shown to be an essential element for humans in 1957, the biofortification of Se to crops via foliar spraying or soil fertilization has been performed for several decades to satisfy the daily nutritional need of humans. Appropriate doses of Se were found to counteract a number of abiotic and biotic stresses, such as exposure to heavy metals (metalloids) (HMs), via influencing the regulation of antioxidant systems, by stimulation of photosynthesis, by repair of damaged cell structures and functions, by regulating the metabolism of some substances and the rebalancing of essential elements in plant tissues. However, few concerns were paid on why and how Se could reduce the uptake of a variety of HMs. This review will mainly address the migration and transformation of HMs regulated by Se in the soil-plant system in order to present a hypothesis of why and how Se can reduce the uptake of HMs in plants. The following aspects will be examined in greater detail, including 1) how the soil characteristics influences the ability of Se to reduce the bioavailability of HMs in soils and their subsequent uptake by plants, which include soil Se speciation, pH, water regime, competing ions and microbes; 2) how the plant root system influenced by Se affects the uptake or the sequestration of HMs, such as root morphology, root iron plaques and root cell wall; 3) how Se combines with HMs and then sequesters them in plant cells; 4) how Se competes with arsenic (As) and thereby reduces As uptake in plants; 5) how Se regulates the expression of genes encoding functions involved in uptake, translocation and sequestration of HMs by Se in plants.

Microbiome-environment interactions in antimony-contaminated rice paddies and the correlation of core microbiome with arsenic and antimony contamination

Mining activities of antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As) typically result in severe environmental contamination. These contaminants accumulate in rice and thus threaten the health of local residents, who consume Sb- and As-enriched rice grains. Microorganisms play a critical role in the transformation and transportation of Sb and As in paddy soil. Thus, an understanding of the microbiology of contaminated sites would promote the production of safe agricultural products. In this study, six Sb- and As-contaminated rice fields near an active Sb-mining area were investigated. The Sb and As concentrations of all samples were elevated compared to the background level in China. Nitrate, total As, total Sb, and Fe(III) were the major determinants of the microbial community structure. Seven bacterial taxa (i.e. Bradyrhizobium, Bryobacter, Candidatus Solibacter, Geobacter, Gemmatimonas, Halingium, and Sphingomonas) were identified as the core microbiome. These taxa were strongly correlated with the As and Sb contaminant fractions and likely to metabolize As and Sb. Results imply that many soil microbes can survival in the Sb/As contaminated sites.

Factors influencing the uptake and speciation transformation of antimony in the soil-plant system, and the redistribution and toxicity of antimony in plants

Antimony (Sb) is not an essential element for humans and plants although it can be used to treat some human diseases, such as schistosomiasis. Sb contamination has been documented in many regions around the world, particularly in China. The Sb contamination in the environment often stems from anthropogenic activities such as mining, smelting, and shooting. Within the latest decade, great progress has been made in research examining the physiochemical behavior of Sb in the environment, including 1) the extent of Sb pollution around the world particularly in China; 2) the mechanisms and factors influencing Sb migration in soils, especially the adsorption/desorption of Sb by minerals or organic materials; 3) the transformations influencing speciation catalyzed by soil microbes; 4) to a lesser extent, the toxicity of Sb to plants and soil animals. In this review, we highlighted the current knowledge with respect to 1) how soil physicochemical properties (including water regimes, pH, organic materials and Eh), and soil organisms will affect the soil bioavailability of Sb, and subsequently the uptake of Sb by plants; 2) the uptake pathway of antimonite and antimonate, the translocation of Sb from roots to shoots, and the redistribution and toxicity of Sb in plants.

The effect of straw-returning on antimony and arsenic volatilization from paddy soil and accumulation in rice grains

Pollution by antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As) in soil can pose a great threat to human health. Straw-returning is widely applied to paddy fields for improving and remediating soil. A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of straw-returning on Sb and As transformation and translocation in a soil-rice system. In this study, Sb and As co-contaminated soil was thoroughly mixed with different proportions (0, 0.5, 1, and 2%) of straw and used for growing rice plants through the entire growing stage in a pot experiment and 4 weeks in a microcosm experiment. The straw application significantly increased Sb and As mobility. The concentrations of total Sb and As in soil-pore water increased after the application of straw in most growing stages. The Sb volatilization in the pot and microcosm experiments was also stimulated by straw application. With the high dose of straw application (2%), the concentration of Sb in brown grain was reduced by 72% compared with the control, but As concentrations increased by around 77%. These findings provide a new perspective in that straw-returning could affect the behavior of both Sb and As in soil and reduce the Sb accumulation in brown grain and some guidance in the use of straw-returning in Sb-contaminated paddy soil.

Toxicity of different forms of antimony to rice plants: Effects on reactive oxidative species production, antioxidative systems, and uptake of essential elements

Antimonite [Sb(III)] and antimonate [Sb(V)] are known to have different toxicity to plants, but the corresponding mechanisms are not fully understood. This study was conducted to investigate reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant systems, and levels of certain essential elements in response to exposure to Sb(III) and Sb(V). Results showed that exposure to Sb(V) caused oxidative stress in a rice plant (Yangdao No.6). Sb(III) was shown to be more toxic than Sb(V) as judged from a lower shoot biomass, a higher loss of essential elements, and higher production of superoxide anion free radicals (O₂^-). The toxicity of Sb(III) might partially be due to the disturbance of the O₂^- dismutation reaction, which resulted in root cell membrane damage under exposure to 20 mg L^-1 Sb(III). Sb(V) stimulated the shoot fresh weight and the shoot uptake of many essential elements. Moreover, Sb(V) and Sb(III) both stimulated the accumulation of calcium in the shoots and roots, and calcium was found to significantly correlate with the concentrations of many essential elements and with some parameters correlated to antioxidant systems, suggesting a Ca-induced regulatory mechanism. The activity of glutathione peroxidase was significantly enhanced by Sb(V) and Sb(III), suggesting a role in scavenging hydrogen peroxide. Catalase was activated by exposure to 20 mg L^-1 Sb(III) in the roots and by exposure to 20 mg L^-1 Sb(V) both in the shoots and roots. However, peroxidase was activated by exposure to 5 mg L^-1 Sb(III) in the shoots and by exposure to 5 mg L^-1 Sb(V) in the roots. This study, for the first time, showed the differences between Sb(V) and Sb(III) toxicity when looking at the antioxidant response and essential element uptake.

Antimony symplastic and apoplastic absorption, compartmentation, and xylem translocation in Brassica parachinensis L. under antimonate and antimonite

Antimony (Sb) excess accumulation in edible parts of crops causes potential risks to human health. However, knowledge about the mechanisms of its accumulation within vegetable plants is still not well known. Here, we investigated the physiological processes of Sb involved in symplastic and apoplastic absorption, compartmentation by roots, and translocation in xylem in Brassica parachinensis L. exposed to antimonate (SbV) and antimonite (SbIII) forms. The results showed that plants treated with SbIII emerged to be more toxic than SbV as proved by the lower biomass and the higher concentrations of malonaldehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in plant tissues, especially at high dosages. The Sb concentration showed more in shoots but less in roots treated with SbV than with SbIII. The total Sb accumulation was higher under the SbV treatment than the SbIII treatment, mainly due to the higher accumulation in shoots. Additionally, the Sb concentration in symplastic flow of roots was higher exposed to SbV than SbIII, while no differences were found for the Sb concentration in apoplastic flow between them. Moreover, the Sb concentration in cell walls of roots was higher exposed to SbIII than SbV, especially at high levels. Furthermore, the Sb concentration in xylem was higher exposed to SbV than SbIII, and a greatly positive correlation was observed between the Sb concentrations in xylem and shoots. Overall, these findings revealed that vegetable plants accumulated more SbV than SbIII in edible parts mainly due to xylem translocation rather than root absorption.

Effect of redox variation on the geochemical behavior of Sb in a vegetated Sb(V)-contaminated soil column

This study examined the geochemical behavior of antimony (Sb) in a vegetated contaminated soil column consisting of unsaturated rhizosphere and a waterlogging layer. The results showed a reducing condition (Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) of -171 mV) was formed in about 5 days in the waterlogging zone. The amount of Sb released was higher under the oxidizing unsaturated-rhizosphere compared to that in the waterlogging zone possibly because of the weaker affinity of Sb(V) to Mn- and/or Fe-oxides in soil. The fraction of Sb(III) in the dissolved total Sb increased with time when soil redox states were subjected to a further reduction. Solid phase Sb K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) of soils showed that Sb(III) fraction of the deeper layer soil increased while the unsaturated upper soil solely composed Sb(V). In this study, 250 mg/kg of Sb pollution did not significantly affect plant growth and no significant transport of Sb occurred from the soil to plant. However, changes in redox conditions within the soil column induced a shift in soil microbial communities. Consequently, the importance of redox states of soil on geochemical behavior of Sb and the effects of soil flooding or waterlogging deserve attention in the management of Sb-contaminated soil.

Influence of Soil Properties and Aging on Antimony Toxicity for Barley Root Elongation

The study explored the Sb toxicity by investigating the impacts of 10% and 20% effective concentrations (EC10 and EC20, respectively) of Sb on the inhibition of barley root elongation in 21 Chinese soils with a wide range of physicochemical properties after aging for 3 months. The results demonstrated that various soil properties profoundly influenced the Sb toxicity which was ranged from 201-2506 mg Sb kg^-1 to 323-2973 mg Sb kg^-1 under EC10 and EC20, respectively. Soil sand fraction was a significant soil factor responsible for elevating Sb bioavailability. The bioavailable Sb concentration accounted for 2.08%-11.94% of total Sb content in all 21 soil samples and the decreased Sb bioavailability in this study was attributed to soil properties including soil clay fraction, amorphous and crystalloid iron, and oxides of manganese and aluminum. The findings would contribute in developing Sb toxicity threshold for establishing standard for Sb regulation in crop production.

Toxicity of different forms of antimony to rice plant: Effects on root exudates, cell wall components, endogenous hormones and antioxidant system

Antimony (Sb) is a toxic element for both human and plants, but the toxic responses of plants to different forms of antimony and the associated mechanisms are unknown. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of different forms of Sb [Sb(III) and Sb(V)] on the root exudates, root endogenous hormones, root cell wall components and antioxidant systems in rice plant via three hydroponic experiments. The results showed that Sb(III) displayed a higher toxicity than Sb(V) to the plant which accumulated much more Sb in its tissues under Sb(III) exposure than that under Sb(V) exposure. Under Sb(III) exposure, most of absorbed Sb was found to be Sb(III) in the shoots and roots; however when plants were exposed to Sb(V), most of absorbed Sb in this rice plant was Sb(V). Only two kinds of endogenous hormones were detected as abscisic acid (ABA) and salicylic acid (SA). The addition of Sb(III) significantly increased the content of ABA but Sb(V) did not, probably suggesting the higher toxicity of Sb(III) than Sb(V) might be due to the stimulation of ABA content. The addition of Sb(III) significantly increased the concentration of oxalic acid but decreased the concentrations of formic, acetic and maleic acids. Sb(V) also enhanced the oxalic acid concentration at 20 mg L^-1 Sb(V) treatment level but reduced the concentrations of formic and acetic acids. Different forms of Sb dose-dependently increased the content of pectin, but significantly enhanced the content of lignin in cell wall. Different forms of Sb induced oxidative stress, but rice plant triggered the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) to counteract the oxidative stress.

The effect of an antimony resistant bacterium on the iron plaque fraction and antimony uptake by rice seedlings

Iron plaque (IP) is crucial in mitigating antimony (Sb) uptake and accumulation in rice plants, while, few studies focused on the effect of the iron plaque-associated Sb resistant bacteria on IP and Sb uptake into rice plants. Here, the effect of a Sb resistant bacterium (GenBank accession No. MH345840, with potential of conversion soluble Sb(III) into insoluble Sb₂O₃) on IP and Sb(III)/Sb(V) uptake under hydroponic condition was investigated. The results showed that in the presence of Sb(III), a large quantity of bacterial cells consorted with IP on rice roots, the bacterial inoculum altered the IP fraction distribution without enhancing its amount. However, it reduced Sb(III) uptake into rice roots. On contrary, seldom bacterial cells associated with the IP on rice roots in the presence of the Sb(V), the bacterial inoculum increased the IP amount slightly, and did not decline the Sb(V) uptake into rice roots. It also showed that the bacterial inoculum decreased Sb concentrations in rice shoots greatly in both Sb(III) and Sb(V) supplied treatments.

Speciation and location of arsenic and antimony in rice samples around antimony mining area

Arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb) are considered as priority environmental pollutants and their accumulation in crop plants particularly in rice has posed a great health risk. This study endeavored to investigate As and Sb contents in paired soil-rice samples obtained from Xikuangshan, the world largest active Sb mining region, situated in China, and to investigate As speciation and location in rice grains. The soil and rice samples were analyzed by coupling the wet chemistry, laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), synchrotron-based micro X-ray fluorescence mapping (μ-XRF) and micro X-ray absorption near-edge structure (μ-XANES) spectroscopy. The results of field survey indicated that the paddy soil in the region was co-polluted by Sb (5.91-322.35 mg kg^-1) and As (0.01-57.21 mg kg^-1). Despite the higher Sb concentration in the soil, rice accumulated more As than Sb indicating the higher phytoavailability of As. Dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) was the predominant species (>60% on average) in the rice grains while the percentage of inorganic As species was 19%-63%. The μ-XRF mapping of the grain section revealed that the most of As was distributed and concentrated in rice husk, bran and embryo. Sb was distributed similarly to As but was not in the endosperm of rice grain based on LA-ICP-MS. The present results deepened our understanding of the As/Sb co-pollution and their association with the agricultural-product safety in the vicinity of Sb mining area.

Antimony accumulation and iron plaque formation at different growth stages of rice (Oryza sativa L.)

To better understand the Sb phytoavailability in rice, we studied Sb accumulation in rice (Zhongjiazao-17, widely cultivated in Hunan province) at different growth stages based on adding Sb^III and Sb^V to waterlogged soils in 10, 50 and 100 mg kg^-1 treatment levels. Proportional exogenous Sb^III and Sb^V remained in the soil solution after equilibration. In Sb^III treatments, the iron plaque (IP) amounts and Sb in rice roots sharply increased from tillering to jointing stages and then reduced at the following stages. However, in Sb^V treatments, they increased continuously from tillering to maturing stages. The accumulation trends of Sb in straws, ears and grains were consistent in Sb^III and Sb^V treatments, rising from tillering to jointing stages followed with reducing from jointing to flowering stages slightly, and rising again significantly from flowering to maturing stages. The Tfsoil-grain values in all the Sb treatments were low (0.77 × 10^-3-5.1 × 10^-3), However, when Sb in waterlogged soils were higher than 50 mg kg^-1, it could pose human health risk for residents.

Distribution and speciation of copper in rice (Oryza sativa L.) from mining-impacted paddy soil: Implications for copper uptake mechanisms

Long term mining activities can cause significant metal pollution in the environment, thereby showing potential risk to the paddy field. Elucidating the interfacial processes of trace metals from contaminated paddy soil to rice within the rhizosphere can provide important information on metal biogeochemistry and food safety. The current study aims to explore the spatial distribution and molecular speciation of Cu from rhizosphere to rice plant in a mining-impacted paddy soil, and reveal the possible uptake mechanisms. X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) analysis indicated that Cu was primarily associated with iron oxide and sulfide in soil with a minor proportion of organic complexed species. In the rice samples, Cu showed much higher concentrations in the roots than the shoots, as most Cu was sequestered in the root surface and epidermis (primarily in the form of C/N ligands bound Cu species), rather than root xylem, as identified by micro X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) imaging coupling with μ-XANES. By contrast, in the root xylem, thiol-S bound Cu(I) complex was observed, representing the reduced product of Cu(II) by thiol-S ligands in rice root. The absorbed Cu was probably transported from the root to the aerial part as C/N ligand bound Cu complex such as Cu-histidine like species, which was observed in the root xylem. The large retention capacity and reduction of Cu(II) in rice root alleviated Cu toxicity to rice, which was beneficial for food safety (e.g., lower concentration of Cu in rice grains). These findings showed for the first time that the uptake mechanisms by rice from field contaminated sites, which shed light on Cu detoxification process and potential remediation strategies.

Plant uptake and availability of antimony, lead, copper and zinc in oxic and reduced shooting range soil

Shooting ranges polluted by antimony (Sb), lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are used for animal grazing, thus pose a risk of contaminants entering the food chain. Many of these sites are subject to waterlogging of poorly drained soils. Using field lysimeter experiments, we compared Sb, Pb, Cu and Zn uptake by four common pasture plant species (Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata and Rumex obtusifolius) growing on a calcareous shooting range soil under waterlogged and drained conditions. To monitor seasonal trends, the same plants were collected at three times over the growing season. Additionally, variations in soil solution concentrations were monitored at three depths over the experiment. Under reducing conditions, soluble Sb concentrations dropped from ∼50 μg L^-1 to ∼10 μg L^-1, which was attributed to the reduction of Sb(V) to Sb(III) and the higher retention of the trivalent species by the soil matrix. Shoot Sb concentrations differed by a factor of 60 between plant species, but remained at levels <0.3 μg g^-1. Despite the difference in soil solution concentrations between treatments, total Sb accumulation in shoots for plants collected on the waterlogged soil did not change, suggesting that Sb(III) was much more available for plant uptake than Sb(V), as only 10% of the total Sb was present as Sb(III). In contrast to Sb, Pb, Cu and Zn soil solution concentrations remained unaffected by waterlogging, and shoot concentrations were significantly higher in the drained treatment for many plant species. Although showing an increasing trend over the season, shoot metal concentrations generally remained below regulatory values for fodder plants (40 μg g^-1 Pb, 150 μg g^-1 Zn, 15-35 μg g^-1 Cu), indicating a low risk of contaminant transfer into the food chain under both oxic and anoxic conditions for the type of shooting range soil investigated in this study.

Mechanisms of biochar reducing the bioaccumulation of PAHs in rice from soil: Degradation stimulation vs immobilization

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms by which biochar reduces the bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in rice under anaerobic conditions. Corn straw- or bamboo-derived biochar pyrolyzed at 300 °C and 700 °C (CB300 or BB700), respectively, was amended into flooded PAH-contaminated soil. After harvest, 2% CB300, 0.5% BB700 or 2% BB700 amendments reduced the bioaccumulation of PAHs in rice root, especially that of high-molecular-weight PAHs (p < .05). Total PAH concentrations were higher, and their bioavailable concentrations were lower in BB700-amended soils than the control. The stimulation of PAH desorption from BB by low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) was gentle and did not significantly retard the adsorption of PAHs on BB700, indicating that BB700 reduced PAH bioavailability primarily via immobilization. The total and bioavailable concentrations of PAHs were both lower in the 2% CB300-treated soils than the control. LMWOAs facilitated PAH release from CB300-amended soils, thus increasing the bioavailability of immobilized PAHs. The relative abundances of the bacteria, functional genes, and methanogens involved in PAH anaerobic degradation were significantly higher in the 2% CB300 treatment than other treatments. Fast PAH dissipation in soil amended with 2% CB300 may be attributed to the increased bioavailability of immobilized PAHs and enhanced biodegradation, both of which were induced by LMWOAs and CB. In summary, biochar types and root presence jointly affected the mechanisms by which biochar reduced the bioaccumulation of PAHs in rice under anaerobic conditions.

Antimony as a global dilemma: Geochemistry, mobility, fate and transport

Elevated concentrations of antimony (Sb) in environmental, biological and geochemical systems originating from natural, geological and anthropogenic sources are of particular global concern. This review presents a critical overview of natural geochemical processes which trigger the mobilization of Sb from its host mineral phases and related rocks to the surrounding environments. The primary source of Sb contamination in the environment is geogenic. The geochemical characteristics of Sb are determined by its oxidation states, speciation and redox transformation. Oxidative dissolution of sulfide minerals and aqueous dissolution are the most prevalent geochemical mechanisms for the release of Sb to the environment. Transformation of mobile forms of Sb is predominantly controlled by naturally occurring precipitation and adsorption processes. Oxyhydroxides of iron, manganese and aluminum minerals have been recognized as naturally occurring Sb sequestrating agents in the environment. Antimony is also immobilized in the natural environment via precipitation with alkali and heavy metals resulting extremely stable mineral phases, such as schafarzikite, tripuhyite and calcium antimonates. Many key aspects, including detection, quantification, and speciation of Sb in different environmental systems as well as its actual human exposure remain poorly understood. Identification of global distribution of most vulnerable Sb-contaminated regions/countries along with aquifer sediments is an urgent necessity for the installation of safe drinking water wells. Such approaches could provide the global population Sb-safe drinking and irrigation water and hinder the propagation of Sb in toxic levels through the food chain. Hence, raising awareness through the mobility, fate and transport of Sb as well as further transdisciplinary research on Sb from global scientific communities will be a crucial stage to establish a sustainable Sb mitigation on a global scale.

The effect of iron plaque on uptake and translocation of norfloxacin in rice seedlings grown in paddy soil

Although the role of iron plaque on rice root surface has been investigated in recent years, its effect on antibiotic uptake remains uncertain. In the study, pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of iron plaque on uptake and translocation of norfloxacin (adding 10 and 50 mg·kg^-1 treatments) in rice seedlings grown in paddy soil. Iron plaque was induced by adding different amounts of Fe(II) in soil. The results showed that the presence of norfloxacin can decrease the amount of iron plaque induced. After rice with iron plaque induced, norfloxacin was mainly accumulated in iron plaque on root surface, followed by inside root, but its translocation from root to other rice tissues is not observed. Iron plaque played the role of a barrier for norfloxacin uptake into rice roots under high norfloxacin concentration of 50 mg·kg^-1, however not that under low concentration of 10 mg·kg^-1. And the barrier function was the most strongest with adding Fe(II) of 30 mg·kg^-1 as combined action of iron plaque and rhizosphere effect. Fluorescence microscope analysis showed that norfloxacin mainly distributed in the outside of root cell, which showed its translocation as apoplastic pathway in rice. Comparing with non-rhizosphere, more norfloxacin was accumulated in rhizosphere soil. Maybe, strong root oxidization (high Eh values) induced more iron oxide formation in rhizosphere and on root surface, which led to norfloxacin's mobility towards to rhizosphere through its strong adsorption of iron oxides and then promoted its uptake by rice on root surface.

Effects of cationic surfactant on the bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in rice and the soil microbial community structure

Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide reduced the PAH bioaccumulation in rice from paddy soils and benefit the soil ecology in the short term.

Uptake, translocation and transformation of antimony in rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings

Antimony (Sb), as a toxic metalloid, has been gaining increasing research concerns due mainly to its severe pollution in many places. Rice has been identified to be the dominant intake route of Sb by residents close to the Sb mining areas. A hydroponic experiment was conducted to investigate the difference in uptake, translocation and transformation of Sb in rice seedlings of four cultivars exposed to 0.2 or 1.0 mg/L of Sb(V). The results showed that mass concentration of iron plaque (mg/kg FW) formed at the root surfaces of cultivar N was the highest among all tested cultivars at both low and high exposure levels of Sb(V). The accumulated Sb concentration in iron plaque significantly increased with an increase in mass concentration of iron plaque formed at the rice root. The total amount of iron plaque (mg/pot) at rice root generally increased with increasing exposed Sb(V) concentration, which was closely associated with the increasing lipid peroxidation in roots. Concentration percentage of Sb in rice root significantly reduced as the corresponding value in the iron plaque increased, suggesting that iron plaque formation strongly suppressed uptake of Sb by rice root. Sb concentration in rice tissues followed an order: root > stem, leaf. The japonica rice (cultivars N and Z) exhibited a stronger translocation tendency of Sb from root to stem than indica hybrid rice (cultivars F and G). Translocation of Sb from root of cultivar F to its stem and leaf was sharply enhanced with increasing Sb exposure concentration. Sb(V) could be reduced to Sb(III) in rice tissues, especially in stems (10-26% of the total Sb). For the sake of food safety, the difference in uptake, translocation and transformation of Sb in rice species planted in Sb-contaminated soils should be taken into consideration.