Oxidative effects on Ri T-DNA-transformed root of Daucus carota exposed to anthracene

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are pollutants widely distributed in the environment, being the focus of interest due to their toxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Considering that PAHs are accumulated in soil sediments, plant roots are exposed to their toxicity. We evaluated the physiological effects of anthracene on Ri T-DNA-transformed carrot (Daucus carota) roots, mainly related to oxidative stress. In vitro conditions were used, so that external factors covering intrinsic root responses were eliminated. The roots absorbed anthracene from the culture medium and its bioaccumulation induced high H2O2 concentration. Consequently, roots exposed to anthracene showed high antioxidant enzyme activities, indicating oxidative stress. Programmed cell death was observed by chromatin condensation in root tips exposed to anthracene, which could explain growth decrease and development pattern alterations in roots. Here we provide comprehensive information on the responses related to oxidative stress in Ri T-DNA-transformed roots exposed to anthracene.