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Age-related biochemical changes during storage of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) seeds

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 March 2007

Stanislawa Pukacka*
Affiliation:
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Seed Biochemistry Lab, 62-035 Kórnik, Poland
Ewelina Ratajczak
Affiliation:
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Seed Biochemistry Lab, 62-035 Kórnik, Poland
*
*Correspondence Email: spukacka@man.poznan.pl

Abstract

Substances that could play a role in maintaining seed viability (phenolic compounds, α-tocopherol, sterols, ascorbic acid, glutathione and soluble proteins) were estimated in beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) seed lots that had been stored for 2, 5, 7 and 10 years at − 10°C. Germination capacity was strongly and positively correlated with amounts of total phenolic compounds, ultraviolet (UV)-absorbing phenols and soluble proteins. Moderately strong relationships appeared between germination capacity and α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid contents. Total sterol and glutathione contents were not correlated with germination capacity. A strong, negative correlation was found between germination capacity and reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide radical () and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), as well as with lipid hydroxyperoxides (LHPOs). The putative role of these compounds in the maintenance of beech seed viability during long-term storage is discussed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2007

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