The effects of cadmium on selected oxidative stress parameters and the content of photosynthetic pigments in cucumber Cucumis sativus L.

Background Environmental pollution by cadmium (Cd) is currently a common problem in many countries, especially in highly industrialised areas. Cd present in the soil can be absorbed by plants through the root system. Aim The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of cadmium on the metabolic activity of cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus L.) and the accumulation and distribution of Cd in the organs of the plants. Methods Cucumber seeds (3g) were exposed to 0.76, 1.58 or 4.17mgCd/L (applied as CdCl2 solutions). The activity of selected antioxidant enzymes - glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation and the content of photosynthetic pigments were determined in 6-week-old cucumber plants. In addition, intake of Cd has been determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (F-AAS). Results The results show that the applied cadmium concentrations affected the activity of antioxidant enzymes. An increase in CAT activity and a decrease in SOD activity were observed in all cucumber organs analysed. GSH-Px activity increased in the roots and stems. Surprisingly, GSH-Px activity decreased in the leaves. The level of lipid peroxidation was usually unchanged (the only one statistically significant change was a decrease in the concentration of malondialdehyde in the leaves which was observed after exposure to the highest Cd concentration). The applied Cd concentrations had no effect on the content of photosynthetic pigments. The highest cadmium content was found in the roots of cucumber plants. Cd tends to accumulate in the roots and a small amount was translocated to the stems and leaves, which was confirmed with the translocation factor (TF). Conclusions The results indicate that the range of cadmium concentrations used, corresponding to the level of environmental pollution recorded in Europe, effectively activates the antioxidant enzyme system, without intensifying lipid peroxidation or reducing the content of photosynthetic pigments.