Azotobacter vinelandii AEIV volatiles protect Arabidopsis seedlings from zinc damage of roots via an abscisic acid crosstalk

Abstract

Heavy metal pollution (i.e., lead, arsenic, copper, zinc) causes stress in plants, affecting their growth. Azotobacter vinelandii strains have been of great interest due to their ability to fix nitrogen, produce biodegradable biopolymers, and promote plant growth. In this study, the effect of high concentrations of zinc (Zn) on Arabidopsis thaliana was evaluated in vitro and in interaction with A. vinelandii AEIV strain. Noteworthy, communication via bacterial-emitted volatiles in divided Petri plates had a protective effect from zinc damage in internal root tissues influencing an abscisic acid response. Thus, A. vinelandii AEIV helps the plant to cope with damaging effects of heavy metals and cross-talks with ABA signaling.