Effects of molybdenum on ascorbate-glutathione cycle metabolism in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. pekinensis)

A hydroponic trial was conducted to investigate effects of molybdenum (Mo) on ascorbate-glutathione cycle (AsA-GSH cycle) metabolism in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. pekinensis). Mo was applied at four rates: 0, 0.01, 0.15 and 1.5 mg l⁻¹. The concentrations of ascorbate, dehydroascorbate, reduced- and oxidized- glutathione, and activities of five key enzymes in the AsA-GSH cycle were studied. The results showed that appropriate Mo application increased the fresh weight of Chinese cabbage, but excess application of Mo (1.5 mg l⁻¹ Mo) decreased the fresh weight. Total ascorbate and reduced ascorbate concentrations in the Chinese cabbage increased with Mo application rates. Although no significant differences existed in DHA concentration between the different Mo regimes, but it has an increase trend with the 0.01 mg l^-1 Mo treatment, and then decreased with the Mo level increasing. No significant difference in GSH concentration was found between the different Mo treatments. Compared with the control, the GSSG concentration decreased significantly in the 0.01 mg l⁻¹ Mo treatment. The activities of APX, MDHAR, DHAR and GR increased due to Mo application. But the activity of AAO decreased with increasing Mo application rates. It is hypothesized that Mo may promote the redox process and regeneration of ascorbic acid, and affect the ability of anti-oxidation in the Chinese cabbage. Responsible Editor: Jian Feng Ma.