Integrative approaches to understanding mercury toxicity in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) plants: Linking growth, biochemistry and antioxidant mechanisms

Mercury is a widely studied toxic metal all over the world due to its ability to easily enter into the food chain. Even exposure to small quantities, causes adverse effects on various biochemical and physiological processes. This study aimed to investigate the integrative approaches to understanding mercury toxicity in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) plants by linking growth, biochemistry and antioxidant mechanisms. Experimental common bean plants were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 served as control, received normal nutritional and water support, while Group 2, 3 and 4 were treated with mercury concentrations of 50, 100 and 200 mg respectively. The results revealed that mercury treated common bean plants exhibited a significant decline in several key growth and physiological parameters, including germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight and vigor index. Moreover, mercury treatment leads to reduction in carbohydrate and protein contents, as well as reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase. These findings underscore the significance of further research to identify strategies for alleviating mercury-induced toxicity and enhancing plant resilience, with the goal of contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance the crop resilience in polluted environments.