Mahajan P.Singh H.P.Kaur S.Batish D.R.Kohli R.K.2020-01-312024-08-132020-01-312024-08-132019944134410.1007/s11356-018-3562-1https://kr.cup.edu.in/handle/32116/2576We examined the possible role of monoterpene ?-pinene in providing protection against Cr(VI) toxicity in maize (Zea mays). Treatment with β-pinene (10 μM) significantly alleviated Cr(VI) accumulation and recuperated Cr(VI) caused decline in root and coleoptile growth in maize. ?-Pinene addition caused a decline in Cr(VI)-induced accumulation of superoxide anion, hydroxyl ion, hydrogen peroxide and confirmed by in-situ detection of ROS using histochemical localization. It suggested that the ?-pinene quenches/neutralizes enhanced ROS generated under Cr(VI) exposure. ?-Pinene also reduced Cr(VI)-induced electrolyte leakage, thereby suggesting its role in membrane stabilization. Further, ?-pinene regulated the activity of scavenging enzymes, thereby suggesting a role in modulating Cr(VI)-induced oxidative damage. In conclusion, our results suggest that the addition of ?-pinene has a protective role against Cr(VI) stress and provides resistance to maize against Cr(VI) toxicity.en-USFree radicalsHexavalent chromiumMonoterpenesOxidative damageStress ameliorationArticlehttps://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-018-3562-1