Abstract
There is increasing interest in using methanol and other alcohol fuels as an alternative energy source in the United States and developing nations. However, methanol-fueled vehicles have higher direct emissions of formaldehyde (HCHO) than gasoline-fueled vehicles, which has led to concern about increases in atmospheric concentration of HCHO. Formaldehyde at concentrations of 300, 600, 900, and 1200 μM reduced germination of hydrated Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) pollen in vitro. HCHO concentrations and pH in media containing pollen decreased during the 25-h incubation, with decreases proportional to HCHO concentration. This effect was not seen with heat-killed pollen, which suggests a detoxification mechanism. Ion leakage (measured as electrical conductivity) of pollen increased within 20 h in all HCHO treatments compared to controls. Stress also was indicated by TTC staining, which also decreased after HCHO treatment compared to controls.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
