The activity focuses on the study of changes in primary and secondary plant metabolism in relation to the action of hazardous substances. It concerns mainly with determination of gas exchange rate, transport mechanisms of electron transfer within PSII, change of pigment content and activity of enzymes, formation of antioxidants etc.
Contaminants and their metabolites that have been taken up by plant roots can accumulate in plant tissues and be a source of oxidative stress. Plants then respond to this stress by synthesizing specific metabolites that are mainly related to the C- and N-cycles, that is mainly related to formation of amino acids and proteins. Due to stress, some amino acids are accumulated, production of some is reduced, in the plant. Nitrite and nitrate reductase inhibition to leads to accumulation of nitrates, changes in the contents and relative proportions of microelements. The lack or excess of microelements leads to changes in the activity of a number of enzymes, such as SOD. The ultimate consequence may be an imbalance in the composition of biologically active substances, which are a nutritional source for both farm animals and humans. Plant defence mechanisms, on the other hand, can lead to biotransformation of organic pollutants; several risk elements may be transformed into less toxic organic compounds (e.g. methylated arsenic compounds).
In order to monitor the physiological parameters of plants in relation to the monitored negative effects of the external environment, the plants are grown under controlled climabox conditions or partially controlled greenhouse or vegetation halls. To ensure continuity with other stages of research, accurate field trials are based on specific locations or in tailored conditions.
Infrared gas analyser, fluorometer is used in this key stage. Changes in the anatomical structure of plant tissues and organs are monitored by optical or fluorescence microscopy and discoloration changes are detected based on WINDias image analysis.
