Role of nanoparticles in improving callus initiation and growth of Lupinus termis under cadmium stress.

Abstract

This study included two parts on Lupinus termis. The first comprised experiments that were conducted at the cell level using tissue culture technique. The second was concerned with the seedling stage and comprised experiments conducted in greenhouse. Tissue culture experiments were conducted in order to assess the possible effects of nano Ca either Ca(OH)2 or CaO on the growth and some metabolic activities under CdCl2 at 30 days. Application of nano Ca mixed with Cd significantly increased all callus growth parameters. POD, CAT, SOD and PPO activities was reduced by mixing nano Ca with Cd. On contrary, the activity of both GR and PAL was pronouncely enhanced at nano Ca with 60 mg/l Cd. The content of proline MDA and H2O2 was significantly decreased by mixing nano Ca with Cd and significant increase in DPPH. Total soluble carbohydrates and free amino acids content was markedly increased at 40 mg/l Cd+CaO, while total soluble protein content was increased at 20 mg/l Cd+CaO. Total phenolics and flavonoids content revealed a significant increase and a decrease in total alkaloids content at 60 mg/l Cd+nano Ca. Isozyme profile of POD and amylase varied in their intensity and thickening in response to different treatments. GC.MS profile demonstrated the presence of Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in high percentage known as antimicrobial activity. Lupanine was identified in varied percentages in response to different treatments. A greenhouse experiment showed that addition of nano Ca increased growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments and shoot phenolics contents of lupine relative to bulk CaCO3.