Evaluation of the cadmium accumulation in tamarillo cells by indirect electrochemical detection of cisteine-rich peptides

Abstract

The accumulation of Cd(II) by tamarillo (Solanum Betaceum) cells was evaluated through the detection of cysteine-rich peptides. It was used the method of electrochemical generation of iodine. These compounds are synthesized in the plant when it is contaminated by metals. The calibration curve obtained indicates a linear range from 0 to 250 µmol L^-1, with a detection limit of 4.82 µmol L^-1 (3.3s/m). The concentration of peptides in cell suspensions increases with the CdSO₄ concentration and the exposure time. The results indicate that tamarillo cells accumulate cadmium. During 5 days of exposure and 100 µmol L^-1 CdSO₄, the cells of the suspension still do not suffer from apoptosis. The proposed method shows useful characteristics for monitoring heavy metals in growing plants.