Aluminum Induced Biochemical Alterations in Amaranthus tricolor

Abstract

Background and Objective : The current study reveals the effect of Aluminum (Al) on Amaranthus tricolor L and
subsequent biochemical changes on the plant. In this study, the effect of Al stress on growth and other related antioxidants and
enzymes were investigated. Methodology : This was achieved by investigating plant growth parameters (root/shoot length, dry
weight) in presence and absence of various concentrations of Al. The antioxidant activity was determined by estimating proline,
ascorbate. The effects of scavenging enzymes were determined by Catalase, Glutathion and SOD activity. The accumulation of
Al in root and shoot was determined by FAAS (Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy). Results: Al induced growth
retardation observed more in roots (52.2%) compared to shoots (35.3%). Total concentration of proline increased (18 folds)
compared to the control. The antioxidants and enzymes exhibited initial increase and subsequent decrease in response to Al
stress. Accumulation of Al (by FAAS) was predominantly in root (70.44ppm ± 0.420).Conclusion: Result thus suggested Al
induced growth inhibition in Amaranthus tricolor and the primary affected region is the root. Al accumulation in the roots could
play an important role in the acclimation of the genotype to Al stress, and could be used as physiological markers for Al-
tolerance. Metal induced scavenging mechanism observed both at enzymatic and antioxidant molecular level.