Abstract
The present investigation aimed to assess the impact of copper (Cu) stress on the physiological and proteomic behavior of Eucalyptus camaldulensis. E. camaldulensis is likely a potential phytoremediator in areas vulnerable to Cu contamination, such as the industrial areas of Riyadh. To realize this objective, young seedlings of E. camaldulensis were potted in an open area with soil comprised of clay and sand. Different doses of Cu (30, 50, and 100 µM) were applied to the plants as CuSO4·5H2O for 6 weeks. Plant growth was monitored during the Cu exposure period, and morphological and physiological indicators were measured once a week to determine the growth rates. A proteomics study was also conducted to find out the influence of Cu stress on proteins. Our results showed that growth was negatively affected by Cu treatment, particularly at the highest concentrations. Moreover, using a proteomic analysis showed 26 targets involved in protein expression. Elevated levels of Cu increased the expression of 11 proteins and decreased the expression of 15 proteins. Changes were detected in proteins involved in photosynthesis, translation, transcription, metabolism, and antioxidant enzymes. Our findings provided insights into the molecular mechanisms related to Cu stress, in addition to its influence on the morphological and physiological attributes of E. camaldulensis seedlings. This investigation aimed to characterize the mechanism behind the impact of Cu stress on the plant.
Highlights
Today the globe is facing critical environmental crises, posing severe problems to humans and natural habitats [1]
With progressive increases of Cu treatment, leaf chlorosis was noticeable after five weeks from the commencement of Cu treatment in the E. camaldulensis seedlings
Studies indicated that phytotoxicity induced by excessive Cu uptake may lead to plant growth suppression, membrane lipid peroxidation, leaf chlorosis, and necrosis [24,37]
Summary
Today the globe is facing critical environmental crises, posing severe problems to humans and natural habitats [1]. Among such ecological complications is the stress in plants caused by water and soil contaminated with heavy metals, leading to stress in the overall food chain. Some heavy metals are considered essential nutrients that play significant roles in plant life. Accumulation of such metals in the environment has increased dramatically, often higher than that necessary for the plant’s growth. All heavy metals have increased toxic effects and can be regarded as ecological impurities [6]
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