Zinc and copper in Ipomoea aquatica from Peninsular Malaysia: synergistic uptake, health risk assessment, and phytostabilization potential

This study investigated zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) accumulation in Ipomoea aquatica (water spinach) from 12 locations across Peninsular Malaysia to assess its dietary safety and potential for phytoremediation. The research found significant variations in metal concentrations across the plant’s tissues and its surrounding soil. Zn levels were highest in roots (28.1–784 mg/kg dry weight), followed by leaves (11.6–298 mg/kg DW) and stems (11.1–260 mg/kg DW). Similarly, Cu concentrations were also highest in roots (9.42–195.8 mg/kg DW), then stems (4.65–41.1 mg/kg DW) and leaves (2.62–25.7 mg/kg DW). A key finding was a significant positive correlation between Zn and Cu uptake, suggesting synergistic accumulation, particularly in the roots. Dietary risk assessments using the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) indicated negligible health risks from consumption, confirming the plant’s safety. While metal translocation to edible parts was low (Translocation Factor, TF < 1), the high bioconcentration in roots (Bioconcentration Factor, BCF > 1 for Zn) suggests I. aquatica has moderate potential for phytostabilization in Zn-contaminated wetlands. The study concludes that I. aquatica is a safe crop and a promising candidate for phytoremediation, emphasizing the need for updating dietary guidelines to reflect observed synergistic metal interactions.

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