EFFECT OF THE DURATION OF NON-THERMAL DISINFECTANT EFFECTS ON THE ENZYMATIC AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.

Abstract

The effect of atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment on α-amylase activity and antioxidant activity in sprouted grain of soft spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was investigated. Treatment was carried out by means of negative corona discharge at a voltage of 10 kV and a frequency of 50 Hz; air was used as a plasma-forming substance. The exposure was 30 seconds over periods of 3, 5, and 10 minutes in comparison with a control sample without exposure to ACP. α-amylase activity was determined by the DNS method; antioxidant activity was determined spectrophotometrically using the DPPH method. It was found that ACP treatment in all studied modes increased the amylolytic activity of grain compared to the control: the increase ranged from 8.1 % (30 sec) to 13.7 % (10 min). The maximum α-amylase activity – 552.6 units/g fresh weight – was recorded after a 10-minute exposure. The antioxidant activity of the sprouted grain reached its highest values after 5-minute treatment, while a short-term exposure (30 sec) caused an insignificant decrease. A parallel improvement in germination parameters was noted: germination increased from 98.1 to 99.0%, and germination energy from 96.9 to 97.6 %. Possible mechanisms of the stimulating effect of ACP, including the signaling role of reactive oxygen species and nitrogen oxides, as well as the modification of cell membranes, are discussed. The obtained results indicate the potential of using ACP as an environmentally friendly physical method for increasing the enzymatic and antioxidant activity of grain raw materials in the food industry and biotechnology.