Growth and metabolism of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) plants in relation to lead toxicity

Overall growth was found to be adversely affected at increasing doses of lead (Pb) content in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) plants, commonly called Til. This plant showed mild chlorosis at early stages and severe chlorosis after a long period of exposure. Necrosis and small brown spots were observed in petiolar inter-and intra-veinal regions of the leaves. Increasing doses of Pb cause significant reduction in chlorophyll contentwhile only higher doses caused reduction in protein contentof plants.