Lead (Pb)-induced biochemical and ultrastructural changes in wheat (Triticum aestivum) roots

The focus of the present study was to explore lead (Pb)-induced metabolic alterations vis-à-vis ultrastructural changes in wheat roots to establish Pb toxicity syndrome at a structural level. Pb (50–500 μM) enhanced malondialdehyde (an indicator of lipid peroxidation) and hydrogen peroxide content, and electrolyte leakage, thereby suggesting reactive oxygen species-induced disruption of membrane integrity and oxidative stress in wheat roots. The activities of superoxide dismutases and catalases enhanced upon Pb exposure, whereas those of ascorbate and guaiacol peroxidases declined. Pb-induced metabolic disruption was manifested in significant alterations in wheat root ultrastructure as analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Pb caused thinning of cell wall (at 50 μM), formation of amoeboid protrusions and folds and intercellular spaces, and appearance of lesions and nicks/breaks (at ≥250 μM Pb). Pb was deposited along the cell walls as dark precipitates. At ≤250 μM Pb, the number of mitochondria increased significantly, whereas structural damage in terms of change of shape and disintegration was observed at ≥ 250 μM Pb. Pb reduced the size of nucleoli and induced puff formation (at 250 μM), resulting in complete disintegration/disappearance of nucleolus at 500 μM. The study concludes that Pb inhibited wheat root growth involving an ROS-mediated oxidative damage vis-à-vis the ultrastructural alterations in cell membrane and disruption of mitochondrial and nuclear integrity.