Researchers identify key gene controlling cadmium distribution between leaf and grain in rice

Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal contaminant of cultivated land, is harmful to humans through its accumulation in crops, especially rice. Therefore, strategies to limit Cd accumulation in rice grains are urgently needed. In rice, Cd is taken up from the soil by the roots and then transported to tissues aboveground. The nodes, which are vascular bundles connected to the roots, leaves and panicles, play an important role in the redirection of Cd in rice.