Growth, photosynthesis and antioxidant responses of endophyte infected and non-infected rice under lead stress conditions

► Fungal endophyte EF0801 enhances rice performance under moderate Pb stress. ► Under Pb stress, the presence of the endophyte increased photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes. ► The fungal endophyte decreased lipid peroxidation. ► Utilization of fungal endophyte EF0801 could be economically advantageous. ► This study could be used for the rehabilitation of polluted soil using endophytes.