Effects of artificial aging on physiological and biochemical characteristics of Bupleurum chinense seeds from Qingchuan county / 中草药

ABSTRACT

Objective: To investigate the deterioration mechanism of Bupleurum chinense seeds from Qingchuan county, thus to study the seeds harvesting and storage characteristics, and to reveal the deterioration mechanism. Methods: Artificial aging method is used to study the seeds deterioration and to observe the changes of nutrient substance, anti-oxidase activities, and conductivity of seeds. Results: While the seeds deteriorated, their activities of anti-oxidase (POD, SOD, and CAT) decreased, and the content of soluble sugar and soluble protein reduced also as the aging time prolonged. After 3 d treatment, SOD, POD, and CAT activities decreased to a low level. Moreover, the conductivity of seeds leachate decreased. The germination ability of B. chinense seeds lost after 1 d aging treatment. Conclusion: The seeds deterioration mechanisms include the heavy oxidative injury, over consumption of nutrients, and membrane damage. The seeds long-time storage is inappropriate and the seeds storage should avoid from high temperature and humid environment.