Advances in the effects of bisphenol A on plants

As a representative endocrine-disrupting chemical, bisphenol A (BPA) is a raw material used in industrial production of resin, plastic and coatings. These BPA-containing products are used in feeding bottles, food and drink packaging, water-supply pipes and teeth enclosed agents. It has been estimated that BPA production will exceed 3.7 million tons per year and global demand for BPA will increase substantially. Because of its large-scale production and extensive application, a large amount of BPA is continuously released into the environment. Thus BPA has been found ubiquitously in the environment, causing potential harm to living organisms. In contrast to vast literature on the effects of BPA on animals, only limited reports have dealt with the effects of BPA on plants. This paper reviewed the detection methods of BPA in plants, the effects of BPA on plants (including seed germination and growth of aboveground and underground organs of higher plants, and on the growth of algae), the mechanisms of BPA action on plants (including changes in cytokinin, nitrogen nutrients, photosynthesis and antioxidant systems), and the phytoremediation of BPA pollution. Finally, the focus of future research in the field of BPA was proposed. This included the effects of BPA on plant metabolism, cellular morphology and ultrastructure, mineral elements and signal transduction. This review provided relevant references on understanding the effects of BPA on plants. It also provided valuable insights into the action mechanisms of BPA on plants.