Protective effect of 24-epibrassinolide against salt-induced destabilization of plasma membrane.

The study was undertaken to answer the question of whether 24-epibrassinolide has the ability to protect the plasma membrane against salt stress. Onion inner epidermal cells were exposed to 150 mMNaCl for 3h. Different protocols of 24-epibrassinolide, and three concentrations were studied (0, 1, 3 µM). NaCl increased plasma membrane permeability, number of cells with swollen protoplasm, and cell death. 24-epibrassinolide overcame Na+-induced cellular alterations. 24-epibrassinolide prior to salt treatment had the greatest protective effect. 24-epibrassinolide at 3 µM was more effective than 1 µM. Plasma membrane protection under salinity stress was provided by 24-epibrassinolide, which may lead to improved salt tolerance.