Abstract
In this study we were interested in evaluating the impact of
air pollution caused by the cement on the biochemical response of castor, using
the analysis of some parameters (chlorophylls, carotenoids, antioxidant
activity, phenolic compounds, fatty acid composition, etc.).
It is revealed that the pollution induced a lipid peroxidation
estimated by the increased production of MDA and which will be the cause of
excessive generation of free radicals.
Our results show that in response to the accumulation of MDA,
the levels of TSS and proline increase especially in the leaves of plants of
site 2. This accumulation can explain the protective role of TSS and proline
against the damage induced by oxidative stress.
Pollution has increased the total phenolics and flavonoid
levels in the leaves of castor plants. Our results suggest that phenolic
compounds may play a crucial role in the defense mechanisms against oxidative
stress in castor plants.
The results obtained show that pollution-induced stress tends
to reduce the degree of unsaturation of fatty acids in castor leaves by
reducing UFA, especially á-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.
Key words: Pollution, castor, chlorophylls, total
phenolics, flavonoids, fatty acids.
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