Physiological aspects of cadmium and lead toxic effects on higher plants

Using the examples of cadmium and lead, the review considers the various to xic effects exerted by these heavy metals. Putative specific and nonspecifi c mechanisms of the toxic effects of the heavy metals and plant responses a re discussed together with the issue of Cd and Pb accumulation in various p lant organelles, cells, tissues, and organs. The basic mechanisms providing for plant resistance to excess Cd and Pb are elucidated. These data are us ed to schematically outline the changes in plant metabolism produced by the se heavy metals.