Evaluation of antioxidant enzyme activity in Scots pine populations from the Chernobyl exclusion zone

Activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione peroxidase in Scots pine needles exposed to chronic radiation exposure in the Chernobyl exclusion zone was evaluated. Effect of radioactive contamination on the level of antioxidant enzymes during seasonal changes in Scots pine populations has been studied. Activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in conifers collected in winter in polluted areas was reduced. There was no steady change in the activity of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase in pine needles of the Chernobyl exclusion zone in response to chronic radiation. We discover patterns of changes in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione peroxidase in different seasons of the year. Activity of two antioxidant enzymes involved in the utilization of hydrogen peroxide was reduced due to the absence of increased generation of superoxide dismutase enzyme in winter.