Evaluation of Theobroma cacao L. as a bioindicator for cadmium contamination through H2O2 electrochemical analysis

Abstract

The use of sedentary bioindicators, such as trees, in environmental contamination monitoring is receiving increased focus. This study evaluates Theobroma cacao L. as a bioindicator for cadmium (Cd) contamination by quantifying hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as an oxidative stress marker in cellular suspensions exposed to CdSO₄. Chronoamperometric measurements using platinum electrodes indicated Cd accumulation in T. cacao L. and revealed a corresponding increase in H₂O₂ production up to a threshold level, beyond which cell apoptosis occurred. These findings support the potential of T. cacao L. as a bioindicator of Cd pollution. Moreover, H₂O₂ quantification via chronoamperometry demonstrated a rapid and effective method for detecting Cd-induced oxidative stress in plant systems. Future research should explore field applications, evaluate alternative plant species, and assess long-term responses under real environmental conditions to optimize this approach for large-scale biomonitoring.