Facets of iron in arsenic exposed Oryza sativa varieties: A manifestation of plant's adjustment at morpho-biochemical and enzymatic levels☆.

Rice consumption is one of the primary sources of arsenic (As) exposure as the grains contain relatively higher concentration of inorganic As. Abundant studies on the ability of iron (Fe) plaque in hampering As uptake by plants has been reported earlier. However, little is known about its role in the mitigation of As mediated oxidative damage in rice plants. The present study highlights the effect of As and Fe co-supplementation on growth response, oxidative stress, Fe uptake related enzymes and nutrient status in rice varieties. Eight different Indica rice varieties were screened and finally four varieties (Varsha, Jaya, PB-1 and IR-64) were selected for detailed investigations. Improved germination and chlorophyll/protein levels during As+Fe co-exposure indicate healthier plants than As(III) treated ones. Interestingly Fe was found act both as an antagonist and also as a synergist of As treatments. It acted by reducing As translocation and improving the nutritional levels and enhancing the oxidative stress. Fe uptake related enzymes (nitrite reductase and ferric chelate reductase) and phytosiderophores analysis revealed that Fe supplementation can reduce its deficiency in rice plants. Morpho-biochemical, oxidative stress and nutrient analysis symbolizes higher tolerance of PB-1 towards As, while Varsha being most sensitive, efficiently combated the As(III) stress in the presence of Fe.