Elucidation of the mechanism of elicitation of edible sprouts using UV-C radiation

Abstract

The major aim of this study was to demonstrate the influence of UV-C radiation exposure of the edible sprouts on their redox status and the mechanism of production of selected phytochemicals in them. The study has shown that UV-C irradiation of broccoli sprouts and red cabbage for 5 min, and alfalfa for 15 min activates mechanisms involved in the antioxidant protection of the cell, resulting in an increase in the level of low-molecular antioxidants, i.e. polyphenols and glutathione. It was proven that sprouts irradiated with UV-C were characterised by higher MAPK expression, as well as higher level of ABA (ROS-dependent) which contributed to the induction of transcription factors (MYB) and consequently, to increased expression of proteins involved in antioxidants biosynthesis (PAL, CHS, γ-GCS, GS) and antioxidant enzymes (MnSOD, CAT). Moreover, UV-C increased mitochondrial activity, which was observed by higher concentration of ATP, as well as increased expression of SnRK1 protein.