Low concentration of exogenous abscisic acid increases lead tolerance in rice seedlings

Abstract

The effects of exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) on lead tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings were investigated. Pre-treatment with 0.1 g m3 ABA for 2 d restricted amount of Pb translocated from roots to shoots, decreased malondialdehyde and H2O2 contents in leaves, and alleviated Pb-induced decrease in plant growth and leaf chlorophyll content. Further, ABA pre-treatment adjusted leaf antioxidative enzyme activities (increased ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activities while decreased superoxide dismutase activity) and so alleviated oxidative stress. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2009.