J. Phys. IV France 107 (2003) 181
DOI: 10.1051/jp4:20030272

Ultrastructural changes, phenolics localization and heavy metals distribution in the leaf of Vaccinium myrtillus L. exposed to chromium in environment-preliminary observations

D. Bialonska¹, K. Sawicka-Kapusta¹, A. Obel², M. Kuras³, T. Tykarska³ and P. Banas<sup>1

1</sup>  Department of Environmental Monitoring, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, 6 Ingardena St., 30-060 Cracow, Poland
²  Department of Chemistry, Spectroscopy Institute, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, K9J 7B8, Canada
³  Department of Plant Morphogenesis, Warsaw University, 1 Miecznikowa St., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland

Abstract
Leaves of Vaccinium myrtillus L. were collected from the forest site influenced by emission, containing chromium compounds in high amounts, from the chemical industry "Alwernia", located 20 km west of Krakow (Poland). As the control area the forest 10 km west of studied site was chosen. Three compartments of the leaf were distinguished: surface, when with together with embedded elements were removed by procedure of dipping in almost boiling water [1], inside the tissue but free ions, by extraction in 20% ethanol +1% acetic acid [2]; bound ions, which could be removed only by analysis of `leftover tissues'. Chromium and other element (Cu, Zn. Fe) levels were analysed by atomic absorption spectrometry, in each of studied leaf compartments-to establish their possible interactions and localisation. Transmission Electron Microscopy revealed disturbances in cell organelle structures. Additionally with the histochemical method we localised phenolic compounds in the cell, considering their involvement in heavy metals detoxification.

© EDP Sciences 2003