Exogenous Pi supplementation improved the salt tolerance of maize (Zea mays L.) by promoting Na⁺ exclusion.

ABSTRACT: The mechanism of phosphate (Pi)-mediated salt tolerance in maize is poorly understood. In this study, the effects of Pi (H₂PO₄^-) on the salt tolerance of two contrasting genotypes was investigated in a pot experiment. We discovered that the application of 3 mM Pi could alleviate salt injury caused by 200 mM NaCl. High amounts of compatible solutes and low amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also observed under Pi application. Consistent with the increased tolerance, the total number of roots and the growth of shoots increased to relieve salt stress. This phenomenon could be associated with the observed increased expression of nitrate transporters. Furthermore, the seedlings presented a negative relationship between sodium (Na⁺) and Pi (

SUBMITTER: Sun Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6212588 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature