Enzymatic activity in braúna seeds subjected to thermal stress

Atividade enzimática em sementes de braúna submetidas ao estresse térmico

ABSTRACT:

To occur seed germination distinct hydrolytic enzymes work together, enabling primary root protrusion. The objective of this study was to investigate changes in the activities of α-amylase, β-amylase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PdH) during germination ofMelanoxylon brauna Schott. seeds under thermal stress. To this end, seeds of this species were germinated under constant temperature (10, 25, 30 or 40°C) and samples were collected every 24h during a 96-h period, in which the activity of the enzymes were evaluated. At 25 and 30°C, optimal temperatures for the germination of the species, the activities of α-amylase, β-amylase, and G6PdH increased with seed imbibitions. At 10 and 40°C, enzyme activities decreased, impairing the germination process.

Key words:
α-amylase; β-amylase; glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase; Melanoxylon brauna