Multiple stresses on the oxidative metabolism of sugarcane varieties

ABSTRACT: The exposure of plants to multiple stress conditions can cause over production of reactive oxygen species promoting an imbalance in the redox system. The aim of this study was to examine the antioxidant response from varieties of sugarcane under adverse conditions, to understand the defense mechanisms of tolerant and sensitive genotypes. Micropropagated sugarcane of six genotypes, RB966928, RB98710, RB855453, RB99395, RB867515, and RB855156, were subjected to isolated action of high-temperature stress and a combination of water and saline stress, and effects were evaluated. Activities of enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX), as well as stress indicators such as lipid peroxidation (MDA content) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content were evaluated. The RB867515 variety showed synchrony between the enzymatic activity and ROS regulation and detoxification, in the plant cell under environmental stress situations, thereby ensuring the maintenance of the relative water content without increment of lipid peroxidation; and consequently, the maintenance of physiological processes and plant growth. These results indicated that lipid peroxidation associated with relative water content can be good biochemical markers of sensitivity to multiple stresses in sugarcane.