Journal of Plant Biochemistry & Physiology
Open Access

Abstract

Blue Light-Emitting Diode Lighting Improves Antioxidant Potential in Barley Germinated Seeds

Manabu Sugimoto*

Barley, a key ingredient in beer, has recently garnered attention for its potential health benefits. Specifically, barley grain has been found to promote the growth of beneficial intestinal microorganisms, positioning it as a functional food. To enhance the functional biomolecules in barley seeds, barley was germinating under Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lighting. After 4 days of germination, the barley exposed to red LED lighting displayed longer shoot elongation, higher α-amylase activity, and lower starch content compared to those germinated in the dark. On the other hand, blue LED lighting resulted in similar root and shoot elongation as the dark condition but significantly increased vitamin C content and DPPH radical scavenging activity in the germinated barley. Interestingly, red LED lighting did not show any significant effects on these antioxidant components. These findings suggest that blue LED lighting could be a potential method to produce functional germinated barley with enhanced antioxidant potential while maintaining the quality standards of malt.

Published Date: 2024-09-04; Received Date: 2024-08-05