Effects of pruning on physiological deterioration, enzimatic activity and phenolic compound levels in cassava roots

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of pruning in the enzymatic activity (phenylalanine ammonia lyase, polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase) and phenolic levels as much as its effects on the reduction of the physiological deterioration degree of cassava (Manihot esculenta, Crantz) roots. Canops pruning at 21 and 28 days caused significative reduction of root deterioration. Besides, independently of pruning, the permanence of roots in the soil also reduced root deterioration degree. Roots of prunned plants showed more phenylalanine ammonia lyase activities and less polyphenol oxidase activities as much as shorter total phenolic levels and their di, oli and polymeric functions.