Dysfunction of Rice Mitochondrial Membrane Induced by Yb3+

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Plant Biology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Ytterbium (Yb) is a rare earth element with known toxicity to humans and plants.
• Mitochondria are crucial for plant development and are a suspected target of Yb toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biological effects of Yb(3+) on isolated rice mitochondria.
• To understand the mechanisms underlying Yb-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in plants.

Main Methods:

• Isolated rice mitochondria were exposed to varying concentrations of Yb(3+).
• Mitochondrial membrane permeability transition (mtMPT), ultrastructure, respiratory chain activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, membrane potential, and complex II activity were assessed.

Main Results:

• High Yb(3+) concentrations (200–600 μM) induced mtMPT and disturbed mitochondrial ultrastructure.
• Yb(3+) exposure led to respiratory chain damage, increased ROS production, decreased membrane potential, and altered mitochondrial complex II activity.

Conclusions:

• High concentrations of Yb(3+) induce mitochondrial membrane dysfunction in rice.
• Findings provide insights into the phytotoxicity of Yb and inform the safe application of Yb-based agents.