Environmental contamination by metals such as cadmium (Cd) presents significant challenges to agriculture and ecosystem health. Understanding the intricate physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that plants employ to cope with Cd stress is crucial for selecting suitable plants capable of managing metal toxicity. This knowledge is essential for mitigating soil and water pollution through optimized phytoremediation strategies. Recent studies have highlighted the adaptive acclimation strategies of plants in response to Cd stress, revealing various physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses. However, gaps remain in our understanding of how plants perceive, respond to, and adapt to Cd exposure, particularly in the context of multiple stressors. Addressing these gaps is vital for developing innovative strategies to improve plant resilience and productivity in Cd-contaminated environments.

This research topic aims to bring together cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews that shed light on the adaptive acclimation strategies of plants in response to Cd stress. The main objectives include exploring the physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of plants to Cd exposure, understanding the mechanisms of Cd-induced oxidative stress, and identifying holistic solutions to improve plant resilience under complex environmental conditions. Specific questions to be addressed include: How do plants perceive and respond to Cd stress at the molecular level? What are the key genetic and metabolic pathways involved in Cd tolerance? How can multi-omics approaches be leveraged to uncover mechanisms of Cd tolerance?

To gather further insights into the adaptive mechanisms of plants under Cd stress, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Characterization of the processes of Cd uptake, accumulation, distribution, and speciation in plants, including competition with nutrient uptake

• Elucidation of the genetic and molecular bases of plant adaptation to cadmium (Cd) accumulation, with an emphasis on signaling pathways and metabolic adjustment

• Leveraging multi-omics approaches to uncover mechanisms of Cd tolerance in plants, including those in metalliferous populations

• Investigation of the mechanisms of Cd-induced oxidative stress; the role of ROS and RNS and their dependent signaling pathways

• Functional validation and physiological insight into key genes and proteins involved in Cd tolerance and stress resilience

• Examination of Cd stress within the context of multiple stressors to identify holistic solutions

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Frontiers in Plant Science

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