Physiological changes induced by chromium stress in plants: an overview

Protoplasma. 2012 Jul;249(3):599-611. doi: 10.1007/s00709-011-0331-0. Epub 2011 Oct 16.

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the mechanism of chromium (Cr) stress in plants. Toxic effects of Cr on plant growth and development depend primarily on its valence state. Cr(VI) is highly toxic and mobile whereas Cr(III) is less toxic. Cr-induced oxidative stress involves induction of lipid peroxidation in plants that cause severe damage to cell membranes which includes degradation of photosynthetic pigments causing deterioration in growth. The potential of plants with the adequacy to accumulate or to stabilize Cr compounds for bioremediation of Cr contamination has gained engrossment in recent years.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antioxidants / metabolism
  • Chromium / metabolism
  • Chromium / pharmacology*
  • Germination / drug effects
  • Lipid Peroxidation
  • Oxyfedrine
  • Photosynthesis / drug effects*
  • Plant Components, Aerial / drug effects
  • Plant Components, Aerial / growth & development
  • Plant Proteins / metabolism
  • Plant Roots / drug effects
  • Plant Roots / growth & development
  • Plants / drug effects
  • Plants / metabolism*
  • Seedlings / drug effects
  • Seedlings / growth & development
  • Soil Pollutants / metabolism
  • Soil Pollutants / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Plant Proteins
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Chromium
  • Oxyfedrine