Polyamines modulate aluminum-induced oxidative stress differently by inducing or reducing H₂O₂ production in wheat

Polyamines are important bioactive molecules involved in regulating H₂O₂ homeostasis, which is recognized as a major stimulus of oxidative stress under aluminum (Al) exposure. In this study, we investigated the involvement of spermidine oxidation in Al-induced oxidative stress, and its modulation by exogenous putrescine (Put) in two wheat genotypes differing in Al tolerance. Aluminum caused more severe oxidative damage at the root apexes in the Al-sensitive genotype Yangmai-5 than in the tolerant Xi Aimai-1, but these effects were significantly reversed by exogenous Put and polyamine oxidase (PAO) inhibitors. Aluminum caused a more significant increase in cell wall-bound PAO (CW-PAO) activity in Yangmai-5 than in Xi Aimai-1. Inhibiting of CW-PAO reduced H₂O₂ accumulation, restored Spd decline in both genotypes, indicating its potential role in Al-induced H₂O₂ production through catalyzing Spd oxidation. Additionally, Al significantly increased the activity of plasma membrane-NADPH oxidase, another H₂O₂ generator, in wheat roots. Put application significantly inhibited the activity of CW-PAO and plasma membrane-NADPH oxidase, and reduced H₂O₂ accumulation in Al-stressed wheat roots. Antioxidant enzymes were significantly stimulated by Al, but not Put. Overall, Put may protect wheat roots against Al-induced oxidative stress through regulating H₂O₂ production by inhibiting CW-PAO and plasma membrane-NADPH oxidase.