Effect of Excess Nickel on Starch Mobilization in Germinating Rice Grains

ABSTRACT

The effect of excess nickel (as NiSO₄) on starch mobilization of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grains or dehulled rice grains during germination was investigated. Excess NiSO₄ had no effect on starch content and α-amylase activity in endosperm of germinating rice grains or germinating dehulled rice grains. Evidence is provided to show that the hull is a barrier against influx of Ni²⁺ to endosperm; endosperm per se is less effective in Ni²⁺ uptake; and α-amylase extracted from the endosperm of germinating rice grains is highly resistant to excess Ni²⁺.

Keywords:

• α-amylase
• nickel
• rice
• starch mobilization