Solid matrix priming can partially reverse the deterioration of sweet cornseeds induced by 2,2 '-azobis (2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride generated free radicals

2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride (AAPH) is a water-soluble chem ical capable of generating free radicals and subsequently inducing lipid pe roxidation in living tissue. This study was designed to investigate AAPH-in duced lipid peroxidation of shrunken-2 sweet corn (Zea mays L.) seeds. The vigor-restoring ability of solid matrix priming, presumably through free ra dical scavenging was also evaluated. Solid matrix priming was achieved by m ixing the seeds with moist vermiculite and incubating at 20 degreesC for 36 h. Following incubation, the seeds were air-dried to near their original m oisture level. The results indicated that AAPH treatment damaged the sweet corn seeds by increasing lipid peroxidation and decreasing free radical and peroxide scavenging activity. However, AAPH-induced damage was partially r eversed by solid matrix priming, which increased free radical and peroxide scavenging activity and the subsequent reduction in peroxide accumulation. These data support the notion that free radicals are a causative factor in seed deterioration, and this deteriorative effect can be partially alleviat ed by solid matrix priming if the primed seeds were immediately planted.