Selenium conditioning decreases antioxidant enzyme activity and delays germination potency of Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna radiate

Objective: This study focuses on the effect of Selenium (Se) on the germination of Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna radiate seeds. Methods: Both the seeds were soaked in solutions containing different concentrations of Se (0 mg/L, 0.5 mg/L, 2.5 mg/L and 5.0 mg/L), for different time intervals (3 h, 6 h, 9 h and 12 h). After soaking, germination efficacy of the seeds was assayed. Total carbohydrate and starch content of the seeds were monitored along with α-amylase activity. The antioxidant activity was also estimated through measuring Catalase, Superoxide dismutase activity and amount of reduced Glutathione as well. Results: The result unveiled that at 0.5 mg/L of Se did not affect the germination at 3 h of soaking, however upon increasing the duration of soaking the germination efficacy is statistically decreased. 3 h soaking of seeds with 2.5 mg/L and 5.0 mg/L of Se reduced the germination efficacy of both the seeds. Further it was observed that increasing the duration of soaking from 3 h to 6hrs, 9 h and 12 h, inhibited the germination potency (P < 0.05). Total carbohydrate and starch content were increased (P < 0.05) in both the seeds soaked in 0.5 mg/L of Se for 3 h, on the other hand there is no statistical difference at 2.5 mg/L and 5.0 mg/L of Se. The α-amylase activities in different experimental samples are in line with carbohydrate and starch levels. Furthermore, it was observed that reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activities were increased (P < 0.05) in both the seeds soaked in 0.5 mg/L of Se for 3 h, however these alterations were statistically reduced (P < 0.05) at 2.5 mg/L and 5.0 mg/L of Se. Conclusion: The present study documents higher concentration of Se could decrease the germination efficacy of M. uniflorum and V. radiate seeds through oxidative stress mediated pathway. On the other hand, lower concentration delays germination. Soaking of M. uniflorum and V. radiate seeds in less concentrated Se solution increases the carbohydrate and starch content compromising germination efficacy.