ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Programmed Cell Death (PCD) is not only essential for plant normal development and reproduction but also induced by various biotic or abiotic stresses. Many studies have suggested that aluminum (Al) induces PCD in plants. To investigate possible mechanisms of PCD, biochemical and physiological features of root tip cells of Tamba black soybean were examined after Al treatment. DAPI (4′, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) results showed a nucleus aggregation in the cell edge, displaying a semicircular shape. A burst of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and increased mitochondrial malondialdehyde (MDA) content were observed in Al-treated soybean root tip cells. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was decreased in Al-treated cells when compared with control cells. These results suggest that mitochondrial MDA and ROS accumulation play important roles in Al-induced PCD.
