Impact of cadmium and selenium exposure on trace elements, fatty acids and oxidative stress in Lepidium sativum

Abstract

The objective of this work was to examine possible effects that the exposure to cadmium and selenium might have in Lepidium sativum. Nine hydroponic cultures were obtained, according to the three level factorial design that covered plants exposure to 0, 0.5, 2.0 mg L -1 of cadmium (as cadmium chloride) and selenium (as sodium selenite). Shoots growth was evaluated during two weeks after germination and the following parameters were measured in the biomass: Cd, Se, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo, fatty acids and malondialdehyde. The results obtained indicate that selenium is capable to counterbalance the adverse effects of cadmium in terms of growth inhibition, decreased concentration levels of essential micronutrients and oxidative damage; however, such protective role is apparently restricted by the concentration levels of two elements in the growth medium. © 2012, Sociedad Química de México.