New Insights into the Application of Microorganism-Assisted Phytoremediation in Contaminated Soil

Dear Colleagues, 

Soil pollution is one of the most important problems concerning both soil health and fertility, leading to the reduction of both natural (ecological function) and arable lands (crop production). The rhizosphere is densely occupied by highly diverse microorganism groups which often coexist with plants (microbiomes). There are also microorganisms inhabiting the internal parts of plants (endosphere) and their surfaces (phyllosphere). A large part of the microbial community is capable of producing many substances, including plant hormones, antibiotics, chemical compounds, and enzymes, which promote plant growth and thus protect plants under unfavourable conditions. In return, plants produce additional compounds, providing an ecological niche for microorganisms. In addition, both microorganisms and plants are able to cope with pollutants, including organic pollutants  (including persistent) and heavy metals. As microbes can support plants in the removal of unwanted substances, the process of soil remediation can be more effective with their inclusion.

For that reason, it is important to study mutualistic plant–microorganism systems to better understand their relationships and the role of both in soil remediation, which is the aim of this Special Issue—“ New insights into the application of microorganism-assisted phytoremediation in contaminated soil”. We welcome any studies showing new insights into the application of microorganism-assisted phytoremediation of contaminated soil, and research surrounding the role of microorganisms in both promoting plant growth and supporting soil phytoremediation. Submitted articles can include reviews on existing microbiomes and their applications in soil remediation, and research articles discovering new microorganisms, and their function for both plant promotion and remediation. Studies using modern omics, biochemical, and physiological tools are especially welcomed. The outcome of the Special Issue will provide biotechnological tools for improving soil remediation, which, in turn, will improve ecosystem quality and agricultural production. 

Dr. Agnieszka Kuźniar
Dr. Artur Banach
Guest Editors

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• plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria
• microorganism-assisted phytoremediation
• phytoremediation
• heavy metals
• organic pollutants
• hyperaccumulators