The effect of some essential oils on adenine nucleotide levels and activity of oxidative stress enzymes in caraway (Carum carvi L.)

Abstract

In this study, the effect of caraway, fennel and marjoram oils on the biochemical response of caraway (Carum carvi L.) was examined. Caraway seeds and seedlings were subjected to continuous influence of each of the essential oils contained in the air at different concentrations, i.e. 0.625%, 1.25%, 2.5% and 5% v/v. In this study, adenine nucleotide (AMP, ADP, ATP) levels and adenylate energy charge (AEC), as well as the activity of catalase and peroxidase, were examined in caraway seeds and seedlings after 48 and 240 hours, respectively. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of caraway, fennel and marjoram oil vapors on the biochemical response of mother plant and acceptor. It was found that a decrease occurred in the level of two nucleotides (ATP and ADP) and AEC in caraway as was affected by increasing concentrations of all essential oils in the atmosphere. Partially, in the case of marjoram oil, this was the result of increase in the AMP and ADP level at the cost of ATP in seedling. For the other two oils, such an effect was not seen. Parallel, catalase and peroxidase content varied irregularly or was constant (in the middle of cases).