Biogeochemical cycling, tolerance mechanism and phytoremediation strategies of boron in plants: A critical review

Boron (B) is an inimitable plant micronutrient, predominantly distinguished by super-narrow range between its deficiency and toxicity concentrations, which depends upon boron speciation in the growth media and form of living organisms. Moreover, the significant variations in its mobility amid different species, and distinctive inter and intra-species responses to extreme concentrations. Therefore, it is necessary to screen the bioavailability, speciation, biogeochemical cycling and exposure pathways of boron in the environment. The genes involved in the tolerance mechanism of boron in different plants were discussed in the current review paper. The functions related to scarcity and excess of boron concentration are assessed. The diverse plants implicated in phytoremediation of boron contaminated sites that restrict boron accumulation in food crops and health risks associated with soils containing deficit or surplus boron concentration were appraised. Ultimately, a summary of numerous strategies involved in the recovery and repair of boron-contaminated soils have been reviewed.

Automated summary

Boron is a unique plant micronutrient with a small difference between deficiency and toxicity concentrations, which depends on boron speciation and living organisms. Different species have varying mobility and responses to extreme concentrations. Therefore, it is important to study the bioavailability, speciation, biogeochemical cycling, and exposure pathways of boron in the environment. This review discusses the genes involved in boron tolerance mechanisms in different plants and assesses the functions related to boron scarcity and excess. It also evaluates the use of diverse plants in phytoremediation of boron-contaminated sites and the health risks associated with soils containing deficit or surplus boron concentrations. Finally, it summarizes various strategies for the recovery and repair of boron-contaminated soils.