Abiogenic silicon: Interaction with potentially toxic elements and its ecological significance in soil and plant systems

Abiogenic silicon (Si), though deemed a quasi-nutrient, remains largely inaccessible to plants due to its prevalence within mineral ores. Nevertheless, the influence of Si extends across a spectrum of pivotal plant processes. Si emerges as a versatile boon for plants, conferring a plethora of advantages. Notably, it engenders substantial enhancements in biomass, yield, and overall plant developmental attributes. Beyond these effects, Si augments the activities of vital antioxidant enzymes, encompassing glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD), among others. It achieves through the augmentation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging gene expression, thus curbing the injurious impact of free radicals. In addition to its effects on plants, Si profoundly ameliorates soil health indicators. Si tangibly enhances soil vitality by elevating soil pH and fostering microbial community proliferation. Furthermore, it exerts inhibitory control over ions that could inflict harm upon delicate plant cells. During interactions within the soil matrix, Si readily forms complexes with potentially toxic metals (PTEs), encapsulating them through Si-PTEs interactions, precipitative mechanisms, and integration within colloidal Si and mineral strata. The amalgamation of Si with other soil amendments, such as biochar, nanoparticles, zeolites, and composts, extends its capacity to thwart PTEs. This synergistic approach enhances soil organic matter content and bolsters overall soil quality parameters. The utilization of Si-based fertilizers and nanomaterials holds promise for further increasing food production and fortifying global food security. Besides, gaps in our scientific discourse persist concerning Si speciation and fractionation within soils, as well as its intricate interplay with PTEs. Nonetheless, future investigations must delve into the precise functions of abiogenic Si within the physiological and biochemical realms of both soil and plants, especially at the critical juncture of the soil-plant interface. This review seeks to comprehensively address the multifaceted roles of Si in plant and soil systems during interactions with PTEs.