Effects of proline on antioxidant system in leaves of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) exposed to oxidative stress by H2O2

Although proline is one of the major computable organic solutes that accumulate in many plant species in abiotic stresses, a hot debate continues about whether proline accumulation is a reaction to abiotic stress, or a plant's response is associated with stress tolerance. The effects of proline on antioxidative system in grape leaves of Vitis vinifera L. cv., ‘Öküzgözü’ exposed to oxidative stress by H₂O₂ was investigated. Endogenous proline, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, percentage of electrolyte leakage (EL), and some of the antioxidant enzyme activities; such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and guaiacol peroxidase (POD) were measured spectrophotometrically. Inhibitory effect of H₂O₂ on antioxidant enzyme activities, MDA, and EL was found. In the presence of proline, SOD and CAT activities decreased, while POD and APX activities increased. Proline pre-treatment resulted in a decrease in cellular H₂O₂ content, MDA, and EL, while cellular concentration of proline increased. Based on the finding, it was suggested that proline and H₂O₂ could play an important role in oxidative stress injury of grapevine leaves grown in vitro culture. Also, proline might have a direct positive effect on antioxidant enzyme system, membrane phase change, MDA, and EL.