In plant cells, how do phytochelatins (PCs) and metallothioneins (MTs) facilitate heavy metal detoxification and maintain homeostasis? This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the roles of these cysteine-rich, heavy metal-binding molecules. With focus on how these enzymes help detox heavy metals, this research explores various roles and ways they detox. Examining the regulation of PC biosynthesis and MT gene expression, the authors provide insights into their potential functions in heavy metal detoxification. The use of the Arabidopsis genome allows the identification of the entire suite of MT genes in a higher plant. The completion of the Arabidopsis genome sequence has been critical in identifying MT genes. The study is focused on recent advances in biosynthesis and MT gene expression.
Published in the _Annual Review of Plant Biology_, this review aligns with the journal's focus on summarizing advances in plant biology research. The article's exploration of phytochelatins and metallothioneins in heavy metal detoxification contributes to understanding plant responses to environmental stress. The review will be useful to researchers in plant physiology and environmental science.