The application of ethephon (an ethylene releaser) increases growth, photosynthesis and nitrogen accumulation in mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under high nitrogen levels

Abstract

Ethephon (2-chloroethyl phosphonic acid), an ethylene-releasing compound, influences growth and photosynthesis of mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss.). We show the effect of nitrogen availability on ethylene evolution and how this affects growth, photosynthesis and nitrogen accumulation. Ethylene evolution in the control with low N (100 mg N kg(-1) soil) was two-times higher than with high N (200 mg N kg(-1) soil). The application of 100-400 microl x l(-1) ethephon post-flowering, i.e. 60 days after sowing, on plants receiving low or high N further increased ethylene evolution. Leaf area, relative growth rate (RGR), photosynthesis, leaf nitrate reductase (NR) activity and leaf N reached a maximum with application of 200 microl x l(-1) ethephon and high N. The results suggest that the application of ethephon influences growth, photosynthesis and N accumulation, depending on the amount of nitrogen in the soil.

Effect of Substrate Dependent Ethylene on Cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.) at Physiological and Molecular Levels Under Salinity Stress

“…This could be attributed to the fact that ethylene has role in N metabolism and increases nitrate reductase activity and N concentration in plant shoot. Similar findings have been reported by Khan et al (2008), as they reported enhanced N concentration in plant shoot by ethephon under saline stress. This could also be attributed to role of ethylene as nitrification inhibitor and thus prevent the loss.…”

Salicylic acid alleviates adverse effects of heat stress on photosynthesis through changes in proline production and ethylene formation

“…[38][39][40][41] In contrast, Leblanc et al 42 have shown that N uptake and nitrate transporter BnNrt2.1 transcript levels were markedly reduced in the presence of ethylene promoter in Brassica napus, but were increased in the presence of ethylene inhibitor. Li et al 43 have observed inhibition of ACS expression in the presence of SA in Lycopersicon esculentum.…”

Ethylene Role in Plant Growth, Development and Senescence: Interaction with Other Phytohormones

“…It promotes or inhibits growth and senescence processes depending on its concentration, timing of application, and the plant species. The application of ethephon, an ethylene releasing compound enhanced ethylene evolution and increased leaf area of mustard at a lower concentration, while inhibited at higher concentration (Khan, 2005; Khan et al, 2008). …”