Citation/Abstract

The ability of black locust ( Robinia pseudoacacia ) to survive in contaminated soil may be attributed to enzymes such as cytochrome P450 and peroxidase, which are capable of metabolizing contaminants. These enzymes were produced by the roots of black locust seedlings. Cytochrome P450 was found in its P420 state using carbon monoxide difference spectrometry. Peroxidases from the roots of black locust seedlings catalyzed the oxidation of both hydroquinone and 4-chloro-1-naphthol, and may be involved in phytoremediation. The role of cytochromes P450 in black locust has not been characterized, and more work is needed to determine their function and possible participation in phytoremediation.