Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The study investigate the variation in antioxidant response in experimental plant to overcome heavy metal stress and higher level of antioxidant enzymes may be associated with tolerance capacity of the weeds to defend the plant from oxidative damage. Methods/Statistical Analysis: Pot culture experiments were completed in greenhouse and the effect of chromium and zinc on antioxidants enzymes were investigated using UV- Spectrophotometer. A strong positive correlation were revealed in between concentration of heavy metals in various parts of plants and soil. Heavy metal stress enhanced the activity of CATalase (CAT) and Ascorbate PeroXidase (APX). Findings: Present study concluded that Parthenium hysterophorous and Amaranthus viridis has considerable ability to accumulate zinc and chromium and induced higher catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activity. Application/Improvement: The study describes a strategy and methodology that these two plants have ability to survive in stressed conditions and enhancing their environmental significance.
Keywords: Antioxidant Enzymes, Heavy Metals, Reactive Oxygen Species and Phytoremediation