Physiological and Biochemical Characterization of the GABA Shunt Pathway in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Seedlings under Drought Stress

The physiological and biochemical role of the ?-aminobutyric acid (GABA) shunt pathway in green pea seedlings (Pisum sativum L.) was studied response to soil water holding capacity levels: 80%, 60%, 40%, 20%, 10% grown under continuous light at 25 °C for 7 days 14 days, separately. Characterization seeds germination pattern, growth (plant height, fresh dry weight, chlorophyll contents), GABA metabolite (GABA, glutamate, alanine) levels, total protein carbohydrate oxidative damage (MDA level) were examined. Data showed a significant effect drought stress on seed germination, plant growth, metabolites level, contents, MDA level. A decline percentage recorded 20% which indicated that is threshold value availability normal after days. Seedling height significantly reduced with positive correlation as decreased. There decrease Chl b contents drought. increased negative Pea increase content increased. Total levels when amount slightly but sharply all levels. maximum observed Overall, increases GABA, cope impact Pisum L. by maintaining cellular osmotic adjustment, protecting plants from stress, balancing carbon nitrogen (C:N) metabolism, cell metabolic homeostasis turgor. results presented this study severe (less than 40% capacity) long-term should be avoided during stage ensure proper seedling metabolism