Effect of plant growth regulators on rice plants (Oryza sativa L.) growth under cadmium stress

Abstract

In numerous developing countries, including Kazakhstan, the issue of soil contamination with cadmium is prominent due to the expansion of the mining and metallurgical sectors. A significant contributor to cadmium pollution in soil is the widespread application of phosphorus-based fertilizers and pesticides that contain cadmium. Even trace amounts of cadmium, accumulating in the soil, can decrease crop yields, impede plant growth, and disrupt various physiological and biochemical processes. Consequently, this study aimed to identify cadmium-resistant rice varieties and explore methods to mitigate cadmium toxicity using growth regulators. The investigation examined the effects of growth-stimulating substances, such as “Epin-Extra” (an epibrassinolide alcohol solution), “Cyrcon” (a hydroxycinnamic acid solution), and “Beres-4 universal” (potassium humate), under cadmium-induced stress. Additionally, the research aimed to elucidate how the structural components of these substances relate to reducing cadmium’s toxic impact on rice plants. The findings suggest that these growth-stimulating substances could be beneficial in ameliorating the adverse effects of cadmium on plants.