Oxidative Stress Markers During Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Legumes Subjected to Abiotic Stress

Nibedita Samal, Manoja Das, Guru Charan Nayak, Ansul Sarangi

Abstract: India, being predominantly a vegetarian country, is a major producer of cereals and pulses. These crops hold a crucial place in the human diet, particularly in addressing protein deficiency, with legumes playing a significant role. Both legumes and cereals are rich sources of folic acid, vitamin B12, dietary fiber, and iron. However, their productivity is often limited by various abiotic stresses. These crops are typically cultivated in regions with marginal soil fertility, making them especially vulnerable to adverse environmental conditions. The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plant responses to abiotic stress is well established. Under stress conditions, ROS levels increase, potentially causing oxidative damage. However, plants possess both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems to regulate ROS levels and maintain cellular homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of abiotic stresses on the synthesis of antioxidant compounds during seed germination. Edible legume seeds, specifically black gram (Vigna mungo) and green gram (Vigna radiata L.), were germinated for 48 hours and then subjected to different abiotic stresses, including water stress, salt stress, and exposure to artificial light in controlled laboratory conditions. Additionally, metal stress was applied for 7 days. We focused on measuring biochemical markers such as proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide, soluble proteins, and catalase activity to understand the oxidative response. Significant changes in total specific activity were observed, indicating stress-induced metabolic adjustments. The results highlight the activation of ROS-scavenging systems in response to increased ROS levels. This study aims to evaluate species-specific oxidative responses during various phases of germination and identify potential mechanisms for improving stress tolerance and seed performance in leguminous crops.

Keywords: oxidative stress, legumes, abiotic stresses, enzymes, reactive oxygen species

How to Cite?: Nibedita Samal, Manoja Das, Guru Charan Nayak, Ansul Sarangi, "Oxidative Stress Markers During Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Legumes Subjected to Abiotic Stress", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 668-671, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR25709205651, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR25709205651