Efficiency of selenium and salicylic acid protection against salinity in soybean

This study was carried out in order to minimize risks associated with salinity. Soybean seedlings were treated with salicylic acid (SA) of 0 and 0.5 mM, selenium (Se) at 0, 25, and 50 mgl-1, and/or NaCl, 0 and 100 mM. The supplements promoted shoot fresh mass and markedly relieved toxicity signs of salinity. Se and/or SA increased calcium and potassium contents in different organs and mitigated the inhibiting effects of salinity on the nutritional status. Simultaneous applications of these elicitors were the most effective strategy to induce antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and catalase). Also, these compounds increased proline, phenolics, and soluble carbohydrates in leaves and roots. Activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase in roots and leaves were induced in the Se and/or SA-supplemented plants. In addition, the elicitors triggered accumulations of non-protein thiols. Therefore, the simultaneous application of Se and SA may be considered as a promising way to relieve the toxicity signs of salinity.