INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF METHYL JASMONATE ON SEED GERMINATION IN MAIZE (ZEA MAYS): EFFECT ON α-AMYLASE ACTIVITY AND ETHYLENE PRODUCTION

Abstract

Summary. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) inhibited germination and root elongation of maize seeds. There was a reciprocal relationship between MeJA concentrations applied and seed germination and radicle growth. Determination of α-amylase activity in crude extracts and zymogram analysis showed that both activity and content of the enzyme decreased in the presence of MeJA. In addition, a reduction in ethylene production which is necessary for seed germination was also observed upon MeJA treatment. Consequently, our data showed that decreased α-amylase activity and/or concentration as well as reduced ethylene production can play significant roles in the physiological and biochemical processes underlying inhibited seed germination and root elongation in maize under conditions of increased MeJA concentrations.