Uptake and distribution of lead in tobacco (<em>Nicotiana tabacum</em> L.)

Authors

  • L. del Piano
  • M. Abet
  • C. Sorrentino
  • L. Barbato
  • M. Sicignano
  • E. Cozzolino
  • A. Cuciniello

Abstract

Six Nicotiana tabacum varieties were in vitro cultured and experimentally exposed to lead in order to estimate lead uptake and distribution in tobacco plantlets and to observe possible differences depending on variety. Fifty-day-old plantlets were exposed to four Pb rates ranging from 0 to 200 mg dm-3. No statistically significant effect of lead on dry matter weight was observed for any variety or plant part. Tissue lead concentration was determined on upper leaves, lower leaves, stems and roots. Lead accumulation in the plant positively correlated with lead exposure level. Lead concentration in the different plant parts decreased as follows: root, lower leaves, stem and upper leaves. All tobacco varieties showed similar behaviour with respect to lead treatment level and revealed the same distribution pattern of lead concentration in the different plant part. The highest values of tissue lead concentration were found in tobacco variety Pr61, while the lowest in G94-2.

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Published

2012-11-28