Ameliorating role of n.p.k. fertilizer on the toxic effects of ni on (sorghum) root antioxidant enzymes

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Sorghum plants were exposed to toxic levels of nickel (Ni) to investigate the impact of N.P.K. fertilizer on the antioxidant enzyme activities in the roots. Nickel toxicity is known to induce oxidative stress in plants by disrupting the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms. In this study, the ameliorating role of N.P.K. fertilizer in alleviating the toxic effects of Ni on sorghum root antioxidant enzymes was examined. Results showed that Ni exposure led to a significant increase in ROS levels in the sorghum roots, indicating oxidative stress. This was accompanied by a decrease in the activities of key antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). The reduced activities of these enzymes suggested impaired antioxidant defense mechanisms in the presence of Ni toxicity. However, when sorghum plants were treated with N.P.K. fertilizer along with Ni, a notable improvement in the activities of SOD, CAT, and POD was observed. The N.P.K. fertilizer appeared to mitigate the toxic effects of Ni by enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activities in the roots. This enhancement could be attributed to the role of N.P.K. in providing essential nutrients that are crucial for the synthesis and functioning of antioxidant enzymes. Overall, the results indicate that N.P.K. fertilizer plays a significant ameliorating role in counteracting the toxic effects of Ni on sorghum root antioxidant enzymes. By enhancing the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, N.P.K. fertilizer helps in maintaining redox homeostasis and protecting the plants from oxidative damage induced by Ni toxicity. This study highlights the importance of nutrient management in mitigating the detrimental effects of heavy metal stress on plant antioxidant defense systems. Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms through which N.P.K. fertilizer modulates antioxidant enzyme activities in response to Ni toxicity. Understanding these mechanisms will not only contribute to improving our knowledge of plant stress responses but also aid in the development of sustainable agricultural practices aimed at enhancing plant resilience to environmental stressors.