Quick selenium accumulation in the selenium-rich rice and its physiological responses in changing selenium...

Area of Science:

• Plant Science
• Nutritional Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Selenium (Se) deficiency poses a global health concern, with Se-rich foods as a potential supplement.
• Enhancing Se accumulation in rice is crucial for meeting nutritional demands.
• However, Se exhibits a narrow toxicity threshold in plants, and its regulatory mechanisms in Se-rich rice are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying Se applications on Se-rich rice.
• To understand the phenotypical, physiological, and biochemical responses to Se exposure.
• To identify potential transporters involved in Se uptake.

Main Methods:

• Phenotypical, physiological, and biochemical analysis of Se-rich rice under different Se concentrations.
• Comparative analysis with Se-free rice.
• Identification of potential phosphate and sulfate transporters.

Main Results:

• Se-rich rice accumulated more Se than Se-free rice in low Se conditions.
• Excessive Se induced phytotoxicity, including chlorosis, dwarfness, reduced antioxidant content, and oxidative stress.
• Phosphate transporter OsPT2 and sulfate transporters OsSultr1;2 may play a role in selenate uptake.

Conclusions:

• Se-rich red rice is sensitive to exogenous Se, with 20 μM being the most effective application in roots.
• Findings aid in evaluating Se toxicity in contaminated fields.
• Long-term field trials are recommended to assess risks and benefits in various management scenarios.