Physio-biochemical analyses in seedlings of sorghum-sudangrass hybrids that are grown under salt stress under in vitro conditions

Abstract Objective This study was conducted to analyze the physio-biochemical responses of two sorghum-sudangrass ( Sorghum bicolor × Sorghum Sudanese Stapf.) hybrid (“Aneto” and “Sugar Graze”) seedlings exposed to salt stress. Materials and methods Sorghum-sudangrass hybrid seeds sown in MS medium containing 50 and 100 mM NaCl. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GR, APX), chlorophyll (a, b, and total), malondialdehyde (MDA), and proline levels measured in 14 days old seedlings. Results As a result of the study, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, APX, and GR), malondialdehyde (MDA), proline and chlorophyll contents of seedlings of cv. “Aneto” increased. On the other hand, SOD activity, proline, and chlorophyll content increased while CAT, APX, GR activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased in seedlings of cv. “Sugar graze”. Conclusion Overall, the results showed that the cv. “Aneto” was less affected by the adverse effects of salt stress than the cv. “Sugar graze”. This study is essential for revealing biochemical responses of 14 days old Sorghum-Sudanese hybrid seedlings against salt stress. These study findings can use in breeding programs for sorghum plants.