Summary
This narrative review synthesises current understanding of how ascorbate, glutathione and α-tocopherol function as an integrated antioxidant defence system in plants exposed to abiotic stresses (drought, salinity, temperature extremes, chemical toxicity). The three metabolites work synergistically to counteract reactive oxygen species accumulation through enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms, including metal ion chelation and direct ROS scavenging, thereby protecting cellular macromolecules from oxidative damage.
Regional applicability
The mechanisms reviewed are fundamental plant physiology and have global relevance. The findings would apply to crop stress tolerance in United Kingdom conditions, particularly as climate variability increases exposure to drought and temperature stress, though specific cultivar-level data from UK field conditions would be needed to translate these molecular insights into UK farming practice.
Key measures
Antioxidant metabolism pathways; reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation; oxidative damage to cellular components (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, DNA)
Outcomes reported
The review examines how three low molecular weight antioxidants (ascorbate, glutathione and α-tocopherol) work together to counteract reactive oxygen species accumulation and oxidative damage in plants exposed to abiotic stresses. The paper discusses the mechanisms by which these antioxidants chelate metal ions and scavenge ROS.
Topic tags
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