Low Cadmium Accumulating Potato Varieties for Safe Food Production: Mechanisms, Genetic Targets, and Integrated Agronomic Strategies

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) contamination of agricultural soils threatens food safety by promoting Cd accumulation in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers. Low-Cd-accumulating cultivars offer a promising mitigation strategy, although their effectiveness is strongly influenced by genotype × environmental interactions. This review synthesizes current evidence indicating that stable low-Cd phenotypes arise from coordinated regulation of soil Cd bioavailability, rhizosphere processes, root uptake, transporter-mediated translocation, and intracellular sequestration rather than cultivar genetics alone. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of the StNRAMP, StHMA, and ZIP transporter families in controlling Cd transport and tuber accumulation. Evidence across recent studies further indicates that integrating low-Cd cultivars with soil amendments, balanced nutrient management, and complementary agronomic practices provides more consistent reductions in Cd bioavailability and tuber Cd than individual interventions. Emerging advances in CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and precision agriculture provide new opportunities for developing Cd-safe potato production systems and improving sustainable management of Cd-contaminated agricultural soils.