Effect of low-dose chronic gamma exposure on growth and oxidative stress related responses in Arabidopsis thaliana

The biological reponses induced by low-dose chronic gamma exposure of Arabidopsis thaliana, irradiated during a full life cyc1e(seed to seed) were investigated This study aimed at developing a dose-effect relationship, considering endpoints important for the survival of a species (morbidity, reproduction) or selected to identify and unravel effects induced at subcellular level. The research output contributes to the information required in standard setting for environmental protection. Environmental adversity like radiation often leads to the increase in formation of highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Bowler et al., 1991). Organisms possess several antioxidative defense mechanisms to control the redox state of the cello The defense system comprises antioxidative enzymes and antioxidants. Exposure to radiation may, on the other hand, also result in direct or indirect (oxidative stress mediated) genotoxic effects. We evaluate how gamma radiation affects plant development, reproduction and how it triggers the antioxidative defense system both at enzyme and metabolite level. DNA damage is also assessed.