The Effect of Cadmium on Oxidative Stress in Beta vulgaris

Abstract

As a heavy metal, cadmium has strongly toxic effects on plants and can induce oxidative stress. It is absorbed by the roots and transported to the stems and leaves. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of various concentrations of cadmium on the metabolic activity of Beta vulgaris and assess the dependence of these processes on the content of metal in the plants. To demonstrate the effect of cadmium on metabolism, protein and photosynthetic pigment content, lipid peroxidation, and the activity of enzymes specific for oxidative stress in roots and shoots were measured. Seeds of B. vulgaris were treated with different concentrations of Cd supplied via a CdCl2 solution: 0 (control), 200, 300 and 400 mg/dm3. Results of the present study revealed increased GPOX activity as cadmium concentration rose, while SOD activity was stimulated by a low Cd concentration (200 mg/dm3) and reduced by high levels of Cd. Based on the present findings, it can be concluded that GPOX in B. vulgaris played a more important role in ROS scavenging than SOD did and was able to reduce the level of lipid peroxidation in plants. Cadmium, in the concentration range used, did not show any significant effect on protein or photosynthetic pigment content.

Increase in Cd Tolerance through Seed-Borne Endophytic Fungus Epichloë gansuensis Affected Root Exudates and Rhizosphere Bacterial Community of Achnatherum inebrians

“…Soil cadmium (Cd) pollution is not only the top-ranked inorganic pollutant, but also one of the most toxic pollutants [ 1 ]. It inhibits seed germination, disturbs plant photosynthesis and respiration, accelerates reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and causes irreversible damage to human brains and kidneys through the food chain [ 2 , 3 ]. To protect the ecosystem against its toxic effects, it is necessary to remove soil Cd through a sustainable and effective method.…”