20-Hydroxyecdysone protects wheat seedlings (Triticum aestivum L.) against lead stress

20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E) is the most abundant phytoecdysteroid (PE) produced by plants, where it represents a protective molecule against insect attack. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of 20E on the growth, metabolic enzymes and antioxidant systems of wheat seedlings under lead stress induced by Pb(NO3)2 (3 mM). Pre-treatment concentrations (0, 1, 3 and 5 μM) of 20E were applied for two days, then wheat seedlings were transferred for 5 days to a treatment solution containing lead nitrate. When plants were grown without pre-treatment, germination and growth were impaired, while signs of oxidative stress were observed. 20E pre-treatment (3 or 5 μM) was able to efficiently protect seedlings from Pb toxicity by reducing Pb uptake and Pb-induced oxidative stress, as well by enhancing Pb excretion. Thus, 20E pre-treatment maintains normal germination, elongation, biomass, and metabolism in spite of the presence of Pb. Our results show that 20E protects oxidative balance and enhances the anti-oxidative systems, and more specifically the ascorbate-glutathione system. To our knowledge, this study shows for the first time that 20E treatment induces metabolic changes that allow the plants to resist heavy metal stress.