Phytochelatins as biomarkers for heavy metal stress in maize (Zea mays L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): combined effects of copper and cadmium.

Analyzes the use of phytochelatins as biomarkers for the diagnosis of heavy metals in maize and wheat. Relationship between the concentration of cadmium and phytochelatins in plant's shoot material; Decrease in shoot concentration of cadmium after the addition of copper; Inferences drawn from differences in metal uptake and xylary metal transport among the two plant species.