Abstract
The cytotoxicity of more than 50 elements was surveyed using suspensions of Nicotiana tabacum (‘xanth’) protoplasts. Fifty-two elements were tested as cations and a few elements were compared in cationic and anionic forms. Results were based principally upon direct protoplast disruption after 24 h exposures, but a few comparative tests were made using seed germination as an index of phytotoxicity. Response parameters were concentrations required for 10% and 50% mortality in the case of protoplasts (LD10, LD50) and corresponding inhibitions in the case of seeds (ID10, ID50),
The most toxic cations were Co, Ni, Cu, Hg and T1 (LD < 1 μM), followed by Ag and Cd. These elements were also the most inhibitory in germination tests. Cationic forms were generally more toxic than anionic species of the same element, although exceptions included Bi, Mn and Cr.
Protoplast sensitivity diminished with age (and wall elaboration) and seeds were generally more resistant than protoplasts or cells.
These cytotoxic and phytotoxic responses were considered in terms of common periodic relations and physical-chemical properties including electronic structure, ion parameters (charge-size relations) and coordination. It was concluded that although relationships do exist between toxicity and positions and properties of these elements they are specific and complex.
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Siegel, S.M. The cytotoxic response of ‘nicotiana’ protoplasts to metal ions: A survey of the chemical elements. Water Air Soil Pollut 8, 293–304 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00541916
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00541916