Does zinc biofortification affects the antioxidant activity in common bean?

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to assess the consequence of zinc biofortification on zinc (Zn) content, natural processes of hydrogen peroxide-scavenging enzymes, and biomass production of green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under greenhouse conditions. Zn was applied using two forms (ZnSO4 and DTPA-Zn) at four doses of application (0, 25, 50 and 100 μM) added under a hydroponic system, and were tested over a period of 60 days. The Zn content was assessed in seeds, as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and hydrogen peroxide production. The results showed that application of low-dose zinc increased concentration in the seed, regardless of the form of application. Respect to antioxidant enzymes, dose of 25 μM of Zn significantly increased activity of the enzyme superoxide dismutase. Finally, to raise the Zn concentration in bean under biofortification program was a promising strategy in cropping systems in order to increase the ingestion of iron and antioxidant capacity in the general population and provided the benefits that this element offered in human health.