Inhibition of paraquat phytotoxicity by a novel copper chelate with superoxide dismutating activity.

A chelate with superoxide dismutase activity, D-penicillamine copper complex, was shown to inhibit paraquat toxicity in flax cotyledons (Linum usitatissimum var. Reina). Paraquat-stimulated chlorophyll loss and ethane production were markedly reduced by this complex. The role of superoxide in the action of paraquat is briefly discussed.