Seed priming with KNO3 mediates biochemical processes to inhibit lead toxicity in maize (Zea mays L.)

BACKGROUND Accumulation of lead (Pb) in agricultural soils has become a major factor for reduced crop yields and poses serious threats to humans consuming agricultural products. The present study investigated the effects of KNO3 seed priming (0 and 0.5% KNO3) on growth of maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings exposed to Pb toxicity (0, 1300 and 2550 mg kg−1 Pb). RESULTS Pb exposure markedly reduced the growth of maize seedlings and resulted in higher Pb accumulation in roots than shoots. Pretreatment of seeds with KNO3 significantly improved the germination percentage and increased physiological indices. A stimulating effect of KNO3 seed priming was also observed on pigments (chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents) of Pb‐stressed plants. Low translocation of Pb from roots to shoots caused an increased accumulation of total free amino acids and higher activities of catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase in roots as compared to shoot, which were further enhanced by exogenous KNO3 supply to prevent Pb toxicity. CONCLUSION Maize accumulates more Pb in roots than shoot at early growth stages. Priming of seeds with KNO3 prevents Pb toxicity, which may be exploited to improve seedling establishment in crop species grown under Pb contaminated soils. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry