<i>LmGSTF3</i> Overexpression Enhances Cadmium\nTolerance in Lemna minor

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) has\nbeen established to play an\nimportant role in regulating the responses of plants to stress, although\nits function and mechanisms of action in the cadmium (Cd)-tolerant Lemna minor remain unclear. In this study, we sought\nto identify a Cd-responsive <i>GST</i> gene from Lemna minor for functional analysis and mechanistic\ncharacterization. We accordingly identified a member of the <i>GST</i> gene family, <i>LmGSTF3</i>, which plays a\npositive role in adaptation of Lemna minor to Cd. Having successfully obtained overexpressing (OE) strains\nvia genetic transformation, we established that these strains were\ncharacterized by elevated Cd tolerance compared with the wild-type\nstrain, as evidenced by significant increases in growth rate, chlorophyll\ncontent, antioxidant enzyme activities, and Cd removal rate. At the\ntranscriptome level, the OE strains were found to have a stronger\nregulatory ability in response to Cd, particularly with respect to\nphotoprotection, antioxidant defense, and glycolytic metabolism, which\nmay be key factors contributing to the Cd tolerance of Lemna minor. Our findings provide a basis for further\nelucidating the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the\nCd tolerance conferred by <i>GST</i> genes in Lemna minor and will potentially contribute to the\nutilization of Lemna minor in remediating\naquatic pollution.