Influence of Separate and Combined Action of γ-Radiation and Lead Nitrate on Germination, Antioxidant Status and Cytogenetic Indicators of Spring Barley Seedlings

Exposure of seeds to a dose of γ-radiation of 20 Gy and a concentration of 2 mg/ml lead significantly modifies the oxidative status of barley plants. Lead at the concentration studied is capable of suppressing the development of seedlings, but is inferior to γ-radiation in its ability to induce cytogenetic abnormalities in the root meristem. Lead toxicity affects roots much more than shoots because roots interact directly with the lead solution. Preliminary seeds γ-irradiation modifies the oxidative status of plants, which reduces the negative effect of lead on seed germination and mitotic activity of cells. The combined action of lead and ionizing radiation does not lead to increased oxidative stress and an increase in the frequency of cytogenetic abnormalities compared to their separate action.