Benzo[a]pyrene induced lipid changes in the monoxenic arbuscular mycorrhizal chicory roots

► Our findings highlight significant changes in the AM root lipid metabolism after PAH exposure. ► B[a]P decreases the Glomalean lipid markers: C16:1ω5 and 24-methyl/methylene sterol amounts in AM roots. ► Whereas increases in FA amounts after B[a]P application were measured in non-AM roots, no changes were shown in AM roots. ► While B[a]P did not modify PL content in non-AM roots, drastic reduction was observed in AM roots, mainly owing to decreases in PE and PC. ► B[a]P affected AM root sterols by reducing stigmasterol.