Introduction Following the implementation of the Heavy Metal Pollution Control Program in the Xiangjiang River Basin , significant progress has been achieved in the effective treatment and remediation of heavy metal contamination in the region. This study aims to identify and investigate microbial species that have adapted to long-term heavy metal contamination in soil environments, with a particular focus on their cadmium (Cd) tolerance mechanisms under stress conditions. Methods Using high-throughput Illumina HiSeq sequencing, differentially expressed genes were identified, annotated, and classified through comprehensive bioinformatics analyses. The associated signaling pathways were systematically examined in detail for functional interpretation. Results This study highlights novel Cd-resistant genes exhibiting pronounced differential expression, thereby offering valuable insights into the Cd-tolerance mechanisms of filamentous fungi under heavy metal stress. Discussion These findings provide a solid foundation for improving fungal tolerance through targeted genetic modifications, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference or gene overexpression, with potential applications in environmental bioremediation strategies.
Fangmei et al. (2026) studied this question.