Oxidative stress parameters, related trace elements levels and proteomics in soybean seeds in order to get a better assessment of their quality

Abstract

Antioxidant systems, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Ni levels and proteomics in soybean seeds of different performance in field were assessed. These results were correlated with the in vitro tests required by regulatory organisms, and the actual behavior in field. Basal superoxide content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (20-80 U mg-1 protein) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity (4.6-7.0 mg antioxidant per g dry seed) permitted to study the oxidative stress of seeds. Essential metal levels were in accordance to previous reports, with the exception of Zn that was higher in some batches of good in vitro quality, but poor performance in field. Proteomic profile showed no differences between batches. Two of the studied parameters (basal superoxide content and Zn level) contribute to a better assessment of the health state of the seeds and predict a possible poor performance in field.