Antioxidant system in citrus under nutrient stress conditions: Latest developments

Abstract

Nutritional imbalances are important factors that determine the distribution of natural -populations of plants. However, in crop plants, alterations in nutrient levels limit vegetative growth, development and ultimately affect yield and production quality. In citrus, this is a relevant aspect due to the economic importance of this fruit tree. As other abiotic stress -factors, nutrient imbalances affect the redox state of the cells by altering normal electron flow through transport chains (chloroplastic and/or mitochondrial) or impairing reactive oxygen species scavenging ability of plants. In this chapter, the effects of macro- and micronutrient imbalances on citrus cell redox state are reviewed, paying special attention to the defense and detoxification mechanisms involved. In addition, the role of reactive oxygen species as signaling compounds alone or associated with plant hormones is discussed.