The effect of Hg++ was studied on the arrangement and photoactivity of NADPH:protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (POR) in homogenates of dark-grown wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) leaves. 77 K fluorescence emission spectra of the homogenates were recorded before and after the irradiation of the homogenates and the spectra were deconvoluted into Gaussian components. The mercury treatment caused a precipitation of the membrane particles, which was followed by a remarkable decrease of the fluorescence yield. 10-3 M Hg++ decreased the ratio of the 655 nm-emitting protochlorophyllide (Pchlide) form to the 633 nm-emitting form. 10-2 M Hg++ shifted the short wavelength band to 629-630 nm and a 655 nm form was observed which was inactive on irradiation. This inhibition may be caused by serious alteration of the enzyme structure resulting in the trans-localisation of NADPH within the active site of POR. and K. Lenti, F. Fodor, B. Böddi.
We summarize the contemporary understanding of the effects of metal stress on various photosynthetic processes in photoautotrophic organisms and of the defence strategies employed by these organisms to avoid such stress. Cadmium is in the centre of interest of this review, as a non-essential element and important environmental pollutant, but Al, Pb, Hg, As, Cu, and Zn are also considered. Toxic metal ions pollute the environment through anthropogenic activities and affect the quality of plant crop. They represent one of the main abiotic stress factors influencing the health of plants and, as a secondary effect, of animals including man. The review summarizes the generally accepted answers to the questions: How do the toxic metal ions enter the photosynthetic organisms? How are they accumulated in plants? Which mechanisms do plants develop to tolerate metal stress and protect themselves? and T. Kučera, H. Horáková, A. Šonská.