Dual application of β-sitosterol and biochar reduces copper toxicity in bamboo via improved redox homeostasis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Heavy metal pollution threatens ecosystems and agriculture, necessitating affordable solutions.

Methods

We evaluated the combined effect of β-sitosterol (Bs, 100 mg L^-1) and eucalyptus biochar (Eb, 10%) on bamboo (Sasa kongosanensis f. aureo-striatus) under copper stress (100 and 200 mg L^-1 Cu).

Results and discussion

Elevated Cu induced oxidative stress via reactive oxygen species (ROS) and methylglyoxal (MG) impairing photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and growth. Bs and Eb, individually or combined, enhanced antioxidant activity (SOD, CAT, POD, PAL), glyoxalase cycle efficiency, and osmolyte accumulation (proline, glycine betaine), mitigating oxidative damage. The treatments improved photosynthetic pigments, gas exchan

SUBMITTER: Emamverdian A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12403999 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature