Antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase in spring barley grain

Activity of antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) was assessed in grain samples of 12 varieties and lines of spring barley grown in two localities (Zabcice, Kromeriz). In 2005, 2007, and 2008 field experiments were established in the locality Zabcice in two growing systems (with the application of pesticides, without application of pesticides) and in the locality Kromeriz without the application of pesticide. Activity of SOD was significantly affected by the varieties/lines, localities, years and their interactions. The treatment method did not affect the SOD activity statistically significantly. Significantly higher activity SOD (P = 0.05) was in the hull-less line KM 1057 (143 U.g(-1) in the dry matter) compared to the total set from both the growing localities. On the contrary, significantly lower activity was recorded in the hull-less variety Merlin (62 U.g(-1) in the dry matter) compared to the other varieties/lines. Malting varieties recommended for production of Czech Beer, Bojos and Tolar, also had higher SOD activity in grain.