Molecular Mechanisms in the Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals from Coastal Waters

Abstract

Heavy metal pollution in the coastal areas is a serious global problem that needs to be properly assessed and mitigated. It poses negative long-term implication on the health of humans and also the ecosystem at large. Here we describe the causes and effects of heavy metal pollution in the coastal areas. Phytoremediation of heavy metals is discussed with emphasis on cadmium, arsenic, lead, copper, chromium, manganese, nickel, vanadium, and zinc. Located between marine and terrestrial environments, mangroves are transitional coastal ecosystems which are found mostly in the tropical and subtropical regions. The phytoremediation potential of several mangrove species is discussed. Finally, the different molecular mechanisms involved in phytoremediation of metals are described. There has been significant progress in determining the molecular basis for metal accumulation, which provides a strong scientific basis to outline several strategies for phytoremediation of metals. The metal transporter genes that are involved in hyperaccumulation of metals and biotechnological approaches including the transgenic plants are elucidated.