Enzyme activity in the micropylar region of Melanoxylon brauna Schott seeds during germination under heat stress conditions

Abstract

Recent studies indicate that global temperatures will rise substantially in the 21st century, leading to the extinction of several plant species, as plant metabolism and germination are greatly affected by temperature. Melanoxylon brauna, a tree species native to the Atlantic Forest that occurs from northeastern to southeastern Brazil, is one of the many species threatened by global warming. Despite the economic and ecological importance of M. brauna, studies investigating the influence of heat stress on seed germination and biochemical responses are still incipient. This study aimed to evaluate enzyme activity in the micropylar region of M. brauna seeds during germination under heat stress conditions. Endo-β-mannanase, α-galactosidase, polygalacturonase, pectin methylesterase, pectin lyase, total cellulase, 1,3-β-glucosidase, and 1,4-β-glucosidase activities were determined in micropyles of seeds imbibed for 24, 48 and 72 h at 25, 35 and 45 °C. Seed germination was highest at 25 °C. Endo-β-mannanase activity was not detected under any of the experimental conditions, but imbibition temperature had a significant effect on the activity of all other enzymes.