Sodium arsenite effect on Vitis vinifera L. Physiology

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Viticulture
• Environmental Toxicology

Background:

• Grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) threaten vineyard sustainability, with limited effective treatments after the ban of sodium arsenite.
• Sodium arsenite was an effective dormant spray for GTDs but was banned due to health and environmental risks.
• Understanding sodium arsenite's mode of action on grapevine physiology is crucial for developing new control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physiological impacts of sodium arsenite on grapevine plants.
• To elucidate the translocation and effects of arsenic within the vine.
• To explore the potential of sodium arsenite in inducing plant defense responses against GTDs.

Main Methods:

• Grafted 'Tempranillo' grapevines were sprayed with sodium arsenite at the end of winter.
• Photosynthetic activity, vine growth, and defense responses were monitored during the vegetative period.
• Arsenic translocation within the plant was analyzed, with a focus on its distribution from leaves to roots.

Main Results:

• Arsenic was translocated throughout the grapevine, accumulating more in the root system.
• Photosynthesis initially decreased but was subsequently stimulated by sodium arsenite treatment.
• Induction of plant tolerance responses, particularly the antioxidant system, was observed.

Conclusions:

• Sodium arsenite influences grapevine physiology, including photosynthesis and defense mechanisms.
• The activation of grapevine defense responses by sodium arsenite suggests a potential complementary role in managing fungal pathogens.
• Further research into sodium arsenite's mode of action could lead to novel strategies for controlling GTDs.