Lignin content and peroxidase activity in soybean seed coat susceptible and resistant to mechanical damage

Mechanical damage is one of the causes of great loss in the quality of soybean seeds during harvest and processing. Considerable interest exists in the lignin since its deposition in the seed coat tissue provides mechanical resistance and protects the cell against microorganisms. In addition, peroxidases might be involved in the oxidation of cinnamyl alcohols prior to their polymerization during lignin formation. Thus, the aim of the present work was to analyze the lignin contents and peroxidases activities of six Brazilian soybean cultivars (Savana, Paranagoiana, FT-10, Santa Rosa, Doko and Parana) and their relationships with the mechanical damage. Results showed that the lignin content and peroxidase activity in the seed coat significantly differed among the soybean cultivars. Cultivars Doko and Parana had the highest contents of lignin and peroxidases activities while the other cultivars had lowest lignin contents and enzyme activities. Lignin content and peroxidase activity may be reasonable indicators of resistance to mechanical damage in soybean seeds.