Toxicity of heavy metals in the environment and the remediation role of brassica juncea: a comprehensive review | [International Journal of Biology and Biotechnology • 2025]

Author(s):

1. Beenish Nisar: Department of Environmental Science, Federal Urdu University,Karachi,Pakistan

2. Nafisa Latif: Department of Environmental Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University,Multan,Pakistan

3. Syed Muhammad Taha: Department of Environmental Science, Federal Urdu University,Karachi,Pakistan

4. Haq Nawaz Abbasi: Department of Environmental Science, Federal Urdu University,Karachi,Pakistan

5. Waqar Ahmad: Department of Environmental Science, Federal Urdu University,Karachi,Pakistan

6. Javed Iqbal: Department of Environmental Science, Federal Urdu University,Karachi,Pakistan

Abstract:

Heavy metal contamination of the environment presents a significant challenge due to its persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic nature. These pollutants adversely affect plants, animals, and human health; therefore need effective remediation strategies. Conventional physical and chemical remediation techniques often face challenges such as high costs, environmental disruption, and difficulties in scaling. Phytoremediation has emerged as a promising sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative for detoxifying heavy metals. Among hyperaccumulator plants, Brassica juncea stands out due to its high biomass production, robust growth, and ability to accumulate different heavy metals. This review comprehensively examines the toxicity mechanisms of heavy metals and highlights the physiological, biochemical, and molecular traits that enable Brassica juncea to remediate contaminated environments. Despite some limitations Brassica juncea remains a promising plant for large-scale remediation, contributing to environmental restoration and human health protection.

Page(s): 881-890

DOI: DOI not available

Published: Journal: International Journal of Biology and Biotechnology, Volume: 22, Issue: 4, Year: 2025

Keywords:

phytoremediation , Heavy metals , Heavy metals , Heavy metals , Toxicity , Brassica juncea , sustainable remediation

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