Biography:

Ana Marques has completed her PhD in Biotechnology and her postdoctoral studies from the Portuguese Catholic University. She has been involved in research activities since 2000, when she was a researcher at Technical University of Denmark working on the production of bioparticles for biofilm applications. Since 2002 she has been developing work at CBQF/ESB-UCP concerning the remediation of disturbed soils using plant-based technologies, with the application of biological tools. She has published 2 book chapters and 25 papers in international peer reviewed journals, participated in numerous conferences and has been serving as a reviewer in several reputed scientific journals, having more than 1750 citations and a h-index of 21.

Abstract:
Heavy metal buildup in soil has grown dramatically as a result of both natural processes and human industrial activity. Because they are not biodegradable, these heavy metals have the potential to remain in the environment for much longer, posing a risk to both the ecosystem and human health. Metals may easily infiltrate the food chain through the soil, causing a variety of health issues. There are several methods available for removing polluted soil, including in situ and ex situ treatment options. These methods involve chemical, biological, and physical remediation techniques. Considering the limitations of cost, efficacy, and environmental friendliness associated with other remediation methods, researchers are increasingly interested in phytoremediation. This technique is known for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environment-friendly nature. A wide range of processes are involved in the practice of phytoremediation. Several processes involved in this include phytostabilization, phytovolatization, rhizofiltration, and phytovolatization. However, various factors played a role in shaping these pathways, such as the properties of the medium, the metal's bioavailability, the kind of plant, and the use of a chelating agent. The present chapter explores the intricate processes involved in the consumption, translocation, and detoxification of heavy metals within the plant kingdom. Aside from providing brief discussions on various sources and effects of heavy metals, our focus will be on the multiple tactics involved in phytoremediation. In addition, we will explore the intricate relationship between soil and microbes to facilitate the process of phytoremediation in polluted soil.