The increasing anthropogenic activities such as the application of fertilizers, sewage disposal, mining, and industrialization have led to the widespread distribution of heavy metals and metalloids, with arsenic (As) being a particularly hazardous contaminant. Arsenic contamination in soil and groundwater poses a severe threat to biodiversity and human health, causing cardiovascular, neurological, haematological, renal, and respiratory issues. This metalloid infiltrates the soil through both natural processes and human activities, existing in various chemical forms. The uptake of arsenic by plants presents significant health hazards as it enters the food chain, disrupting plant water balance and triggering oxidative stress. Recent studies have highlighted the complex dynamics of As toxicity and tolerance in plants, yet there remain significant gaps in understanding the physiological responses and innovative phytoremediation techniques required to mitigate this issue effectively.

This Research Topic aims to explore the complex dynamics of As toxicity and tolerance in plants, from physiological responses to innovative phytoremediation techniques. We seek to provide an in-depth understanding of As absorption, transport, and the coping mechanisms plants use to deal with As toxicity. This includes examining both non-hyperaccumulating plants, which employ strategies like reduced As5+ uptake and sequestration in roots, and As-hyperaccumulators, which tolerate high As concentrations through mechanisms like increased As5+ uptake and enhanced xylem translocation. By fostering a deeper understanding of these processes, we aim to contribute to sustainable solutions to address As contamination and its environmental and health impacts.

To gather further insights into the physiological responses and phytoremediation strategies for arsenic toxicity and plant tolerance, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Mechanisms of arsenic uptake in different plant species.

- Physiological and biochemical impacts of As exposure, including ROS and oxidative stress.

- Strategies for arsenic tolerance in non-hyperaccumulating and hyperaccumulating plants.

- Advances in phytoremediation techniques, including the application of nanotechnology.

- Environmental and health implications of As contamination and mitigation strategies.

Merely descriptive works will not be considered for publication.

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Frontiers in Plant Science

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