Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule capable of increasing the plant resistance to environmental stress of different nature. However, the mechanisms underlying the protective effect of NO on the plants still remains poorly understood. In the present study we have investigated the effect of 200 μmol SNP (Sodium Nitroprusside) on the growth and ascorbate acid (AsA) and glutathione metabolism in wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L.) under the influence of 12 % PEG. The results showed that application of SNP to wheat plants increased AsA and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents and enhancement of glutathione reductase activities. Meanwhile, growth stabilization and a decrease in the damaging effect of drought on the state of membrane structures were noted in plants, as judged by the level of MDA in them. Our results suggested that SNP can regulate the ascorbate and glutathione metabolism and has important roles in alleviating oxidative damage and enhancing drought tolerance in wheat.

This work is supported by Grant RFBR (20-04-00904 а) and partly within the framework of the state assignment (state registration number АААА-А16-116020350029-1).