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Green Synthesis of Hyperbranched Spermine-Coated Fe 3 O 4 Nanoparticles and Their Effect on Corn Seedlings under Copper Oxide Stress
Abstract
The coating of Fe 3 O 4-NPs with SM and HS is a new strategy to increase the efficiency of nanofertilizers and improve the quality and resistance of plants against environmental stresses. In this study, aqueous extracts of spinach and guar were used for the green synthesis of Fe 3 O 4-NPs and CuO-NPs, respectively. The surface of the Fe 3 O 4-NPs was then coated with SM and HS. UV− vis, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spec-troscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering analyses all confirmed the formation of nanoparticles. The first experiment was carried out as a factorial in a completely randomized design. The effect of nanoparticles and determination of the optimal concentration of Fe 3 O 4-NPs, SM, HS, Fe 3 O 4-SM, and Fe 3 O 4-HS with concentrations (control, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/L) and two methods of application (seed priming and addition to planting medium) were determined. The results showed that seed priming with 75 mg/L Fe 3 O 4-NPs and single-stranded and multibranched polyamines improves germination and increases the dry matter content and seedling length. Then, a pot test was performed for the effects of Fe 3 O 4-NPs and single-branched and poly branched polyamines under CuO stress conditions. The factors were six polymers (control, Fe 3 O 4 , SM, Fe 3 O 4-SM, HS, and Fe 3 O 4-HS) and CuO-NPs (control, 60, and 120 μL). Under stress conditions, the application of Fe 3 O 4-HS caused an increase of 34.11, 41, 39.37, and 68.25% in the activity of CAT, POX, PPO, and proline, respectively, and a decrease of 46 and 33.33% in MDA and hydrogen H 2 O 2 compared to the control treatment. Also, the use of NPs under stress conditions caused more absorption of N and Fe by the plant. Consequently, the plant's resistance to CuO stress conditions increased.
... Abiotic stressors can thereby inhibit plant development and yield, including salinity, drought, and heavy metal stress. One of the most prominent abiotic stresses is soil salinity, which is increasingly problematic globally because it occurs in all climates and can be a threat to agricultural products such as wheat (EL Sabagh et al. 2021;Loo et al. 2022;Ahmadi Nouraldinvand et al. 2023a). Indeed, salinity inhibits plant growth by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupting nutrient hemostasis, causing ion toxicity, and creating osmotic potential in the root environment (Gebrehiwet et al. 2021). ...
Salinity stress is one of the global problems that limit crop production. The application of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) and the inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with wheat are novel approaches to reducing the negative effects of salinity stress. Therefore, the main objective of this experiment was to investigate the role of SiO2-NPs and the use of co-inoculation of AMF and PGPR for wheat plant tolerance under salt stress. The experiment was carried out as a factorial based on a randomized complete block design. Accordingly, a pot experiment was conducted on wheat growing under salt stress (0, 35, 70, and 105 mM NaCl), using bio-fertilizers (control, mycorrhizal fungi, Flavobacterium and Pseudomonas bacteria, co-inoculation of AMF and PGPR), and SiO2-NPs (0, 30, and 60 mg/L) as additives. The results showed that, under 105 mM salinity stress, the co-inoculation of AMF and PGPR as well as the use of SiO2-NPs enhanced chlorophyll a (8.81%), b (12.93%), total Chl (22.68%), carotenoid content (18.88%), membrane stability index (14.82%), plant height (13.37%), and spike length (13.9%) parameters compared to control treatment. The application of AMF and PGPR individually or in combination and the use of SiO2-NPs improved physiological parameters such as leaf area index, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, anthocyanin, and chlorophyll index. Salinity stress reduced the uptake of phosphorus and K+, as well as increasing the uptake of Na+. However, co-inoculation of AMF and PGPR as well as 60 mg/L SiO2-NPs resulted in increased Si, P, and K+, as well as decreased Na+ uptake, which finally increased grain yield. Generally, this finding implies that co-inoculation of AMF and PGPR as well as the application of SiO2-NPs could be used as additives for the improvement of wheat and the uptake of nutrients under salinity stress.
In this study, aqueous spinach extract was used for the green synthesis of iron nanoparticles. The surface of iron oxide nanoparticles was coated with spermine. The physicochemical properties of nanoparticles were investigated using UV-Vis, TGA, FTIR, VSM, TEM, and DLS. The results showed that the nanoparticles had a spherical structure. The surface charge of the Fe 3 O 4 -NPs increased from −3.2 to 18.42 (mV) after Fe 3 O 4 coating by spermine. In order to investigate the effect of nanoparticles on physicochemical properties of rosemary under drought stress conditions, an experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design. The results showed that the amount of antioxidant enzymes and secondary metabolites increased significantly under drought stress. Moreover, the use of spermine-coated iron nanoparticles can be useful in increasing resistance to drought stress in plants by increasing the activity of some antioxidant enzymes and secondary metabolites. The biocompatibility of Nanoparticles in cell suspension was investigated. the ability of Fe 3 O 4 -SM NPs to interact with DNA and protect it against DNaseI and ultrasonic waves using agarose gel electrophoresis was studied. The ability of Fe 3 O 4 -SM to neutralize the negative charge of DNA and protect it against DNaseΙ and ultrasonic waves was confirmed using an agarose gel electrophoresis assay.
Climate change can intensify drought in many regions of the world and lead to more frequent drought events or altered cycles of soil water status. Therefore, it is important to enhance the tolerance to drought and thus health, vigor, and success of transplantation seedlings used in the forestry by modifying fertilization and promoting mycorrhization. Here, we sowed seeds of Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi) in 0.2-L containers with 0.5 g (low fertilization; LF) or 2 g (high fertilization; HF) of slow-release fertilizer early in the growing season. One month later, we irrigated seedlings with non-sterilized ectomycorrhizal inoculum (ECM) or sterilized solution (non-ECM), and after about 2 months, plants were either kept well watered (WW; 500 mL water/plant/week) or subjected to drought (DR; 50 mL water per plant/week) until the end of the growing season. HF largely stimulated plant growth and above- and belowground biomass production, effects that are of practical significance, but caused a small decrease in stomatal conductance (Gs390) and transpiration rate (E390), which in practice is insignificant. ECM treatment resulted in moderate inhibition of seedling growth and biomass and largely canceled out the enhancement of biomass and foliar K content by HF. DR caused a large decrease in CO2 assimilation, and enhanced stomatal closure and induced senescence. DR also largely depleted foliar Mg and enriched foliar K. Although DR caused a large decrease in foliar P content in LF, it moderately increased P in HF. Likewise, DR increased foliar K in HF but not in LF, and decreased foliar P in ECM plants but not in non-ECM plants. Conversely, ECM plants exhibited a large enrichement in foliar P under WW and had a lower water potential under DR when grown in LF. These results indicate that the drought tolerance and health and vigor of Japanese larch seedlings can be modified by soil fertility and soil microorganisms. This study provides a basis for new multifactorial research programs aimed at producing seedlings of superior quality for forestation under climate change.
Biocompatibility of nanoparticles is the most essential factor in their use in clinical applications. In this study, hyperbranched spermine (HS), hyperbranched spermine-polyethylene glycol-folic acid (HSPF), and hyperbranched spermine-polyethylene glycol-glucose (HSPG) were synthesized for DNA protection and gene delivery to breast cancer cells. The synthesis of HSPG and HSPF was confirmed using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) spectroscopy. The HS/DNA, HSPF/DNA, HSPG/DNA, and hyperbranched spermine-polyethylene glycol-folic acid/glucose/DNA (HSPFG/DNA) nanoparticles were prepared by combining different concentrations of HS, HSPF, and HSPG with the same amount of DNA. The ability of HS, HSPF, and HSPG to interact with DNA and protect it against plasm digestion was evaluated using agarose gel. Moreover, in vivo and in vitro biocompatibility of HSPF/DNA, HSPG/DNA, and HSPFG/DNA was investigated using MTT assay and calculating weight change and survival ratio of BALB/c mice, respectively. The results of agarose gel electrophoresis showed that HS, HSPF, and HSPG have the high ability to neutralize the negative charge of DNA and protect it against plasma degradation. The results of in vivo cytotoxicity assay revealed that the HSPF/DNA, HSPG/DNA, and HSPFG/DNA nanoparticles have good biocompatibility on female BALB/c mice. In vitro and in vivo transfection assays revealed that functionalization of the surface of HS using polyethylene glycol-folic acid (HSPF) and polyethylene glycol-glucose (HSPG) significantly increases gene delivery efficiency in vitro and in vivo. These results also showed that gene transfer using both HSPF and HSPG copolymers increases gene transfer efficiency compared to when only one of them is used. The HSPFG/DNA nanoparticles have a high potential for use in therapeutic applications because of their excellent biocompatibility and high gene transfer efficiency to breast cancer tissue.
Graphical abstract
This study was to explore the nitrogen metabolism and transcriptome mechanism of spermidine (Spd) under drought stress conditions. Firstly, maize variety Xianyu 335 (drought insensitive type) and Fenghe 1 (drought sensitive type) were chosen as experimental materials under hydroponic conditions. The effects of PEG-6000 combined with Spd application on nitrogen metabolism were studied. Secondly, we chose maize variety Xianyu 335 for the field experiment. At the flowering stage, normal water treatment and moderate drought stress were carried out, respectively. The results showed that: (1) Hydroponics experiment showed that the content of NH4+ in the leaves of maize seedlings under drought stress increased significantly, while the content of NO3− and nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate synthase (GOGAT), glutamine dehydrogenase (GDH), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) increased significantly. Spd can promote the assimilation of excess ammonia by enhancing the activities of ammonia assimilating enzymes GS/GOGAT and GDH, and transaminase (GOT and GPT), effectively alleviate the ammonia toxicity and nitrogen metabolism disorder induced by drought stress. (2) Pot experiment showed that Spd significantly promoted the root growth of maize under drought stress, so as to improve the absorption and utilization of water and nutrients. In addition, Spd can improve the chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rate of maize leaves under drought stress. After the application of exogenous Spd, the photosynthetic green leaf area increased, the leaf senescence rate slowed down, and the dry matter accumulation increased after anthesis, resulting in the increase of grain weight and grain number per ear, and finally improve the maize yield.
Hordeum jubatum L. is a potential ornamental grass species. Spermidine (Spd) plays a regulatory role in plant stress. This study measured seedling growth, photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence, osmotic regulatory substance contents, and antioxidant enzyme activities in H. jubatum seedlings pretreated with Spd (0–1.5 mM at 0.5 mM intervals) in drought treatments simulating natural water loss. The results indicated that the water content, photosynthetic parameters maximal quantum yield of PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm), actual quantum yield of photochemical energy conversion in PSII (ϕPSII), and photochemical quenching coefficient (qp) values of H. jubatum shoots decreased significantly with increasing drought intensity. Simultaneously, the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the nonphotochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ) value increased. Spd improved growth and photosynthesis under drought stress. Spd also increased osmotic regulatory substance contents and antioxidant enzyme activities. These results suggest that the drought stress inhibited the growth of H. jubatum and damaged the photosynthetic systems, triggering a range of protective responses. Exogenous Spd mitigated the damage by promoting a variety of responses and adaptive mechanisms, such as adjusting stomatal conductance, promoting photosynthetic capacity, accelerating the synthesis of osmoregulatory molecules, and activating antioxidant enzyme systems. Additionally, 1.5 mM Spd-treated H. jubatum had the best drought tolerance. This study will help to develop an understanding of the effects of exogenous Spd on improving drought resistance and provide a strategy for the H. jubatum landscape effect to be achieved under water-limited conditions.
The excessive accumulation of copper (Cu2+) has become a threat to worldwide crop production. Recently, it was revealed that melatonin (MT) could play a crucial role against heavy metal (HM) stresses in plants. However, the underlying mechanism of MT function acted upon by Cu2+ stress (CS) has not been substantiated in tomatoes. In the present work, we produced MT-rich tomato plants by foliar usage of MT, and MT-deficient tomato plants by employing a virus-induced gene silencing methodology and exogenous foliar application of MT synthesis inhibitor para-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA). The obtained results indicate that exogenous MT meaningfully alleviated the dwarf phenotype and impeded the reduction in plant growth caused by excess Cu2+. Furthermore, MT effectively restricted the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and habilitated cellular integrity by triggering antioxidant enzyme activities, especially via CAT and APX, but not SOD and POD. In addition, MT increased nonenzymatic antioxidant activity, including FRAP and the GSH/GSSG and ASA/DHA ratios. MT usage improved the expression of several defense genes (CAT, APX, GR and MDHAR) and MT biosynthesis-related genes (TDC, SNAT and COMT). Taken together, our results preliminarily reveal that MT alleviates Cu2+ toxicity via ROS scavenging, enhancing antioxidant capacity when subjected to excessive Cu2+. These results build a solid foundation for developing new insights to solve problems related to CS.
Field crops are subjected to drought at different growth stages and cause for substantial yield loss in major crops, thus threaten to global food security. The crop researcher have evaluated numerous physiological, biochemical and molecular strategies to combat drought stresses but these approaches are not enough in present scenario. Therefore, it is argued that plants can be primed by assorted organic and in-organic promoters for excelling fortitude under stress conditions. Hence, seed priming with different agents is an auspicious area of research in stress biology and crop stress management, for conferring tolerance when plants are subjected to drought stress. However, the adaptation and tolerance mechanisms of drought stress are complex and quantitative in nature, which have been explored at physiological, biochemical and molecular levels thoroughly in this review. The concept of stress memory and its implication in future generation has also been discussed. Finally, in this review the challenges and opportunities of seed priming with effective application in crop stress management along with expanding the knowledge on deep understanding of drought stress tolerance to reduce the future yield gap are discussed thoroughly.
Although pollen structure and morphology evolved toward the optimization of stability and fertilization efficiency, its performance is affected by harsh environmental conditions, e.g., heat, cold, drought, pollutants, and other stressors. These phenomena are expected to increase in the coming years in relation to predicted environmental scenarios, contributing to a rapid increase in the interest of the scientific community in understanding the molecular and physiological responses implemented by male gametophyte to accomplish reproduction. Here, after a brief introduction summarizing the main events underlying pollen physiology with a focus on polyamine involvement in its development and germination, we review the main effects that environmental stresses can cause on pollen. We report the most relevant evidence in the literature underlying morphological, cytoskeletal, metabolic and signaling alterations involved in stress perception and response, focusing on the final stage of pollen life, i.e., from when it hydrates, to pollen tube growth and sperm cell transport, with these being the most sensitive to environmental changes. Finally, we hypothesize the molecular mechanisms through which polyamines, well-known molecules involved in plant development, stress response and adaptation, can exert a protective action against environmental stresses in pollen by decoding the essential steps and the intersection between polyamines and pollen tube growth mechanisms.
The application of nanoparticles (NPs) has been proved as an efficient and promising technique for mitigating a wide range of stressors in plants. The present study elucidates the synergistic effect of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) in the attenuation of Cd toxicity in Phaseolus vulgaris. Seeds of P. vulgaris were treated with IONPs (10 mg/L) and SiNPs (20 mg/L). Seedlings of uniform size were transplanted to pots for 40 days. The results demonstrated that nanoparticles (NPs) enhanced growth, net photosynthetic rate, and gas exchange attributes in P. vulgaris plants grown in Cd-contaminated soil. Synergistic application of IONPs and SiNPs raised not only K⁺ content, but also biosynthesis of polyamines (PAs), which alleviated Cd stress in P. vulgaris seedlings. Additionally, NPs decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content and electrolyte leakage (EL) in P. vulgaris plants exposed to Cd stress. These findings suggest that stress alleviation was mainly attributed to the enhanced accumulation of K⁺ content, improved antioxidant defense system, and higher spermidine (Spd) and putrescine (Put) levels. It is suggested that various forms of NPs can be applied synergistically to minimize heavy metal stress, thus increasing crop production under stressed conditions.
Currently, seed priming is reported as an efficient and low-cost approach to increase crop yield, which could not only promote seed germination and improve plant growth state but also increase abiotic stress tolerance. Salinity represents one of the most significant abiotic stresses that alters multiple processes in plants. The accumulation of polyamines (PAs) in response to salt stress is one of the most remarkable plant metabolic responses. This paper examined the effect of osmopriming on endogenous polyamine metabolism at the germination and early seedling development of Brassica napus in relation to salinity tolerance. Free, conjugated and bound polyamines were analyzed, and changes in their accumulation were discussed with literature data. The most remarkable differences between the corresponding osmoprimed and unprimed seeds were visible in the free (spermine) and conjugated (putrescine, spermidine) fractions. The arginine decarboxylase pathway seems to be responsible for the accumulation of PAs in primed seeds. The obvious impact of seed priming on tyramine accumulation was also demonstrated. Moreover, the level of ethylene increased considerably in seedlings issued from primed seeds exposed to salt stress. It can be concluded that the polyamines are involved in creating the beneficial effect of osmopriming on germination and early growth of Brassica napus seedlings under saline conditions through moderate changes in their biosynthesis and accumulation.
To study the effect of water limitation and application of bio-fertilizer and nanosilicon on yield and some biochemical characteristics of wheat, a factorial experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications in the research field of Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran, in 2018-2019. Experimental factors were included irrigation in three levels (full irrigation as control and irrigation cut-off at 50% of booting and heading stages, based on codes 55 and 43 of the BBCH scale, as moderate and severe water limitation, respectively,), foliar application of nano-silicon (water spraying as control, 30 mg/L or 22.5 mg/m2 and 60 mg/L or 45 mg/m2 nano-silicon) and bio-fertilizer (no application as control, application of mycorrhiza (Glomus mosseae), application of flavobacterium + pseudomonas strain 186, combined application of mycorrhiza and flavobacterium + pseudomonas). The results showed that the highest antioxidant enzymes activity and soluble sugars were obtained by combined application of bio-fertilizers and foliar application of 30 mg/L nano-silicon under the condition of irrigation limitation at booting stage. Under full irrigation condition and non-application of bio-fertilizers and nano-silicon, the activity of catalase, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase enzymes and soluble sugar content decreased 78, 49, 64 and 74 percent, respectively, compared to severe water limitation at booting stage and combined application of bio-fertilizers and 30 mg/L nano-silicon. Maximum proline content was also obtained by foliar application of 60 mg/L nano-silicon (9.50 μ g/g FW) and combined application of bio-fertilizers (9.70 μg/g FW) under severe stress conditions (10.97 μg g Fw-1). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content under severe water limitation at booting stage and non-application of bio-fertilizers and nano-silicon was 90% higher than the application of 60 mg/L nano-silicon and combined application of bio-fertilizers under full irrigation condition. The highest grain yield (4593 kg/ha) was obtained from the foliar application of 30 mg/L nano-silicon and combined application of bio-fertilizers under full irrigation conditions. The results of current study showed that the combined application of bio-fertilizers and nano-silicon can increase wheat grain yield under water limitation conditions by improving plant biochemical characteristics.
Nanotechnology has received much attention because its distinctive properties and many applications in various fields. Nanotechnology is a new approach to increase agricultural production with premium quality, environmental safety, biological support, and financial stability. The ecofriendly technology is becoming progressively important in modern agricultural applications as alternatives to traditional fertilizers and pesticides. Nanotechnology offers an alternative solution to overcome the disadvantages of conventional agriculture. Therefore, recent developments in using nanoparticles (NPs) in agriculture should be studied. This review presented a novel overview about biosynthesis of NPs, using NPs as nanofertilizers and nanopesticides, the applications of NPs in agriculture, and their role in enhancing the function of biofactors. We also show recent studies on NPs-plant interactions, the fate and safety of nano-materials in plants, and the function of NPs in alleviating the negative effects of abiotic stress and heavy metal toxicity. Nano-fertilizers are essential to reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers and reduce their negative effects on the environment. Nano-fertilizers are more reactive, and can penetrate the epidermis allowing for gradual release, and targeted distribution, and thus reducing nutrients surplus, enhancing nutrient use efficiency. We also concluded that NPs are crucial in reducing abiotic stress and heavy metal toxicity. However, some studies reported the toxic effects of NPs on higher plants by induction of oxidative stress signals via depositing NPs on the cell surface and in organelles. The knowledge in our review article is critical in defining limitations and future perspectives of using Nano-fertilizers as an alternative to conventional fertilizers.
Many studies on the toxicity of nanoparticles (NPs) have reported different levels of toxicity for various types of NPs. This study aimed to examine the morpho-ultrastructural impact of iron oxide (Fe 3 O 4) NPs on seed germination in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum var. Turkish) using different sizes and concentrations of nanoparticles. Seeds were allowed to germinate in the presence of (Fe 3 O 4) NPs of three different sizes (5, 10, and 20 nm) at three different concentrations 3, 10, and 30 mg/L for each size. Seeds were assessed using light and transmission microscopy. Radical lengths and seed germination rate were significantly affected (positively or negatively) in all NPs-treated seeds compared to control seeds. The radical lengths in 5 nm-treated seeds (30 mg/L concentration) and 10 nm-treated seeds (10 and 30 mg/L concentrations) were significantly shorter than control seeds. In contrast, the radical lengths in 10 nm-treated seeds (3 mg/L concentration) and 20 nm-treated seeds (10 mg/L concentration) were significantly longer than control seeds. Most NPs-treated seeds exhibited significant higher seed germination except for seeds treated with 5 nm NPs (3 mg/L concentration). Moreover, thick and thin micrographs of radicles and leaflets of 5 nm NPs-treated seeds (30 mg/L concentration) and 10 nm NPs (30 mg/L concentration) showed structural and ultrastructural deformation. Thus, these findings confirm that the toxicity and the bioaccumulation of (Fe 3 O 4) NPs were size and concentration dependent.
Polyamines are ubiquitous, low-molecular-weight aliphatic compounds, present in living organisms and essential for cell growth and differentiation. Copper amine oxidases (CuAOs) oxidize polyamines to aminoaldehydes releasing ammonium and hydrogen peroxide, which participates in the complex network of reactive oxygen species acting as signaling molecules involved in responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. CuAOs have been identified and characterized in different plant species, but the most extensive study on a CuAO gene family has been carried out in Arabidopsis thaliana. Growing attention has been devoted in the last years to the investigation of the CuAO expression pattern during development and in response to an array of stress and stress-related hormones, events in which recent studies have highlighted CuAOs to play a key role by modulation of a multilevel phenotypic plasticity expression. In this review, the attention will be focused on the involvement of different AtCuAOs in the IAA/JA/ABA signal transduction pathways which mediate stress-induced phenotypic plasticity events.
In this present study conducted with the LFGD (Low-Frequency Glow Discharge) (Ar & Oxygen) plasma treated maize seeds, to inspect the effect on seed surface modifications, seed germination, growth, development, productivity and nutritional compositions of maize plants. This study reported that LFGD (Ar & Oxygen) plasma treated maize seeds have a potential effect to change its smooth seed surfaces and, it becomes rougher. It also enhances the seed germination rate up to (15.88%), which might help to increase the shoot length (33.42%), root length (10.67%), stem diameter (13.37%), total chlorophyll content (46.93%), total soluble protein (52.48%), total soluble phenol (21.68%) and sugar (1.62%) concentrations in respect controls of our experimental plants. For this reason, the acceptable treatment duration for maize seeds were 30sec, 60sec, 90sec and 120sec. After treatment, the plants exhibited a significant increase in CAT, SOD, APX and GR activities in the leaves and roots, and also significantly changes in H 2 O 2 (208.33 AE 5.87μ molg À1 FW) in the leaves and (61.13 AE 1.72μ molg À1 FW) in the roots, NO was (369.24 AE 213.19μ molg À1 FW) and (1094.23 AE 135.44μ molg À1 FW) in the leaves and roots. LFGD plasma treatment also contributed to enhancement of productivity (1.27%), nutritional (moisture, ash, fat, and crude fiber) compositions, and iron and zinc micro-nutrition concentrations of maize. From this research, LFGD (Ar & Oxygen) plasma treatment showed a potential impact on the maize cultivation system, which is very effective tools and both in nationally and internationally alter the conventional cultivation system of maize. Because it promotes seed surface modification, improved germination rate, shoot length, root length, chlorophyll content, some of the growths related enzymatic activity, nutrient composition, iron, and zinc micro-nutrients and the productivity of maize.
In recent years, research on spermine (Spm) has turned up a lot of new information about this essential polyamine, especially as it is able to counteract damage from abiotic stresses. Spm has been shown to protect plants from a variety of environmental insults, but whether it can prevent the adverse effects of drought has not yet been reported. Drought stress increases endogenous Spm in plants and exogenous application of Spm improves the plants' ability to tolerate drought stress. Spm's role in enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms, glyoxalase systems, methylglyoxal (MG) detoxification, and creating tolerance for drought-induced oxidative stress is well documented in plants. However, the influences of enzyme activity and osmoregulation on Spm biosynthesis and metabolism are variable. Spm interacts with other molecules like nitric oxide (NO) and phytohormones such as abscisic acid, salicylic acid, brassinosteroids, and ethylene, to coordinate the reactions necessary for developing drought tolerance. This review focuses on the role of Spm in plants under severe drought stress. We have proposed models to explain how Spm interacts with existing defense mechanisms in plants to improve drought tolerance.
Root characteristics and metal uptake in the maize hybrid Naudi were studied in a pot trial, using soil artificially highly polluted with Zn, Cu, Co, Cd, and Pb. The addition of these metals as sulfates decreased the soil pH and increased electrical conductivity. As a result of increased bioavailability in the soil pore water, significantly higher concentrations of metals, particularly Pb, Cu, and Co, were found in the shoot tissues of maize at the 3-4 leaf stage. While the lowest increase was in Cd (0.89 mg kg −1 vs. 0.33 mg kg −1 for controls), Zn reached a critical threshold of 75 mg kg −1 vs. 2.76 mg kg −1. Fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots, as well as root length, were markedly reduced, whereas root diameter, tip density, and the branching index increased considerably. A significant adaptation strategy by maize in the polluted soil was an increased fraction of coarse root length and a decreased fraction of finer roots. We conclude that maize is very sensitive to multiple metal pollution, suggesting its potential use as a test plant to evaluate contaminated soils. As length was the most affected root characteristic, measurement of this parameter could be a way of screening genotypes for tolerance to metal contamination and possibly salinity. There also is future scope for investigating whether K fertilization might mitigate metal phytotoxicity, in view of the negative correlations between the shoot K concentration and concentrations of the supplied metals.
Recently the applications of engineered nanoparticles in the agricultural sector is increased as nano-pesticides, nano-fertilizers, nanocarrier for macro- or micronutrients, nano-sensors, etc. In this study, biocompatible iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO NPs) have been synthesized through an environment-friendly route using Cassia occidentalis L. flower extract to act as nano-priming agent for promoting germination of Pusa basmati rice seeds. Different characterization methods, viz. X-ray diffraction, particle size analyser, zeta potential and scanning electron microscopy, were used to show efficacious synthesis of FeO NPs capped with phytochemicals. Rice seeds primed with FeO NPs at 20 and 40 mg/L efficiently enhanced germination and seedling vigour compared to ferrous sulphate (FeSO4) priming and hydro-primed control. The seeds primed with 20 mg/L FeO NPs showed up to 50% stimulation in biophysical parameters such as root length and dry weight. Substantial stimulation of sugar and amylase content was also reported at the same concentration. The antioxidant enzyme activity was significantly increased as compared to FeSO4 priming and control. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) study was also done for analysis of Fe, Zn, K, Ca, and Mn concentration in seeds. The seed priming technique signifies a comprehensible and innovative approach that could enhance α-amylase activity, iron acquisition, and ROS production, ensuing elevated soluble sugar levels for supporting seedling growth and enhancing seed germination rate, respectively. In this report, phytochemical-capped FeO NPs are presented as a capable nano-priming agent for stimulating the germination of naturally aged rice seeds.
Photosynthetic changes and antioxidant activity to oxidative stress were evaluated in sour
orange (Citrus aurantium L.) leaves subjected to lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and also Pb + Cu toxicity treatments, in order to elucidate the mechanisms involved in heavy metal tolerance. The simultaneous effect of Pb− and Cu on growth, concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), chlorophylls, flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolics, chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic parameters were examined in leaves of Citrus aurantium L. plants. Exogenous application of Pb and Cu resulted in an increase in leaf H2O2 and lipid peroxidation (MDA). Toxicity symptoms of both Pb and Cu treated plants were stunted growth and decreased pigments concentration. Furthermore,
photosynthetic activity of treated plants exhibited a significant decline. The inhibition of
growth in Pb and Cu-treated plants was accompanied by oxidative stress, as indicated by the enhanced lipid peroxidation and the high H2O2 concentration. Furthermore, antioxidants in citrus plants after exposure to high Pb and Cu concentrations were significantly increased compared to control and low Pb and Cu treatments. In conclusion, this study indicates that Pb and Cu promote lipid peroxidation, disrupt membrane integrity, reduces growth and photosynthesis and inhibit mineral nutrition. Considering the potential for adverse human health effects associated with high concentrations of Pb and Cu contained in edible parts of citrus plants the study signals that it is important to conduct further research into the accessibility and uptake of the tested heavy metals in the soil and whether they pose risks to humans.
Background
Nanofertilizers have been provided a new efficient alternative to normal regular fertilizers. Nano-particles can help in increasing reactive points of these nanoparticles, which increases the absorption of these fertilizers in plants.
Materials and methods
Thus, a field experiment was conducted in sandy soil during two winter seasons of 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 at experimental station of National conditions, El-Behira Governorate-Egypt. The objective of this study was the effect of ZnO as normal chelated micronutrient and ZnO as nanoparticle foliar application at rates of 0, 20, 40, and 60 mg/L, with two rates of compost (0.0 and 3.00 ton/fed) on growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, yield, and chemical analysis of flax ( Linum usitatissimum L cv., Sakha-2) plants.
Results
The obtained results showed that adding of compost to the sandy soil by 3.0 ton/fed, increased markedly growth parameters (shoot and root length (cm), fresh and dry weights (g), photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, and total pigments (μg/g fresh wt)), free amino acids and proline (mg/100 g dry wt), total carbohydrate percentage, yield quantity and quality (technical shoot, fruiting zone lengths and plant height (cm), No. of fruiting branches/plant and No. of capsules/plant, weight of straw (g), weight of 1000 seeds (g), biological yield (kg/fed), seed yield (kg/fed), and straw yield (kg/fed)), oil percentage, and oil yield (kg/fed) compared to control treatments (without compost). Also, the obtained data clarified that applied foliar treatment with normal ZnO with rates 40 mg/L significantly increased the yield and all parameters of flax plant during studied growing seasons. The interaction between compost addition and different concentrations of either ZnO or nano ZnO revealed that different concentrations increased different studied parameters without or with the addition of compost to sandy soil as compared with untreated plants.
Conclusion
Treatment of flax plant with ZnO and nano ZnO improved the studied growth parameters, biochemical aspects, and consequent yield in the absence and presence of compost.
The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe-NPs) on the germination of sunflower seeds, early growth of seedlings and the concentration of selected elements in seedlings. The influence of constant magnetic fields in systems with and without Fe-NPs was investigated. Experiments were done on seeds subjected to germination under constant magnetic field (0 (control), 5, 25 and 120 mT) for 7 days in the presence of solution containing 0, 50 or 500 ppm Fe-NPs. No significant effect of Fe-NPs and the magnetic field on germination of seeds and the growth of seedlings has been demonstrated. In most cases, a decrease in germination parameters was observed. For the majority of samples the relative decrease in the concentrations of elements was demonstrated mainly for samples without Fe-NPs. Interestingly, a significant decrease in the concentrations of trivalent (including iron - Fe) and toxic elements in samples containing Fe-NPs in relation to control samples was observed. The authors suggest that in this case the binding (adsorption) of these elements in the roots and seeds of the sunflower by Fe-NPs took place. This explains the lower iron content in seedlings than in seeds prior to sowing.
Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a fibrous crop, grown in tropical climate having huge biomass and can be a good candidate for the phytoremediation of different heavy metals. Consequently, the present study was conducted to explore morpho-physiological traits, photosynthetic pigments, gaseous exchange attributes, antioxidative response and phytoextraction of copper (Cu) in H. cannabinus grown under different levels of Cu i.e. 0 (control), 60, 120 and 180 µmol L −1 in Hoagland nutrient solution (pH 6.2). The results from the present study revealed that Cu toxicity reduced plant height, plant diameter, plant fresh weight, plant dry weight, photosynthetic pigments and gaseous exchange attributes compared to control. Moreover, excess Cu in the nutrient solution ameliorates contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) and electrolyte leakage (EL) which showed that Cu induced oxidative damage in the roots and leaves of H. cannabinus. The oxidative stress which was induced by a high concentration of Cu in the nutrient solution is overcome by enzymatic activities of antioxidants which increased with the increase in Cu concentration, i.e. 60 and 120 µmol L −1 , while the addition of Cu (180 µmol L −1) caused a reduction in the activities of superoxidase dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in the roots and leaves of H. cannabinus. The results also demonstrated that an increase in Cu concentration in the nutrient solution causes an increase in Cu accumulation through roots, leaves and stems of H. cannabinus, although the highest Cu concentration was accumulated in roots while only a little transported to the above ground parts (leaves and stems) of the plants. All the values of bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF) were less than 1, which also indicated that a small quantity of Cu concentration is transported to the aboveground part of the plants. These findings suggested that phytotoxicity of Cu affected plant growth and biomass and increased ROS production while accumulation of Cu in different parts of plant proved that H. cannabinus is an ideal specie for phytoremediation of Cu when grown under Cu contaminated sites. How to cite this article Saleem MH, Fahad S, Rehman M, Saud S, Jamal Y, Khan S, Liu L. 2020. Morpho-physiological traits, biochemical response and phytoextraction potential of short-term copper stress on kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seedlings. PeerJ 8:e8321 http://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.8321
Salinity is an obstacle for plant growth and the exploitation of means like cation foliar to soften the negative effects is of interest. The impacts of NaCl salinity (0, 75, 150, and 225 mM) and nano-Zn and Fe foliar applications (0 and 3 mg L⁻¹) were examined on yield and physiological characteristics of Rosmarinus officinalis grown in an open soilless culture system. Salinity decreased root growth and above-ground plant growth (fresh and dry weight), chlorophyll a and total chlorophyll content, and zinc accumulation. Nano-Fe and Zn foliar application had positive influence on the above-ground plant growth. The results showed that Zn²⁺ content was affected by the interaction between salinity and nano-Fe and Zn foliar application. The highest content of Zn²⁺ was found at no saline Zn-sprayed plants. The content of Zn²⁺, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), and phenolics were affected by the independent effects of salinity or foliar application. Salinity increased the H2O2 and MDA content but nano-zinc and iron spraying alleviated salinity impacts and both H2O2 and MDA decreased. Nano-Fe and Zn foliar application increased total phenolics and total flavonoids content. Proline and chlorophyll a content, Na⁺, K⁺ amounts, and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio were affected by the salinity stress. Salinity decreased K⁺ content and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio but increased Na⁺ and proline content with more pronounced effects at 225 mM NaCl. Overall, foliar application of both elements improved the growth and salt tolerance of rosemary and their application would be advisable to the cultivation practices.
To evaluate the effect of different concentrations of humic acid on guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) yield and nutrient uptake in different sowing densities, an experiment was carried out by using a split plot design with three replications based on a randomized complete block design, in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Iran at summer 2016. Experimental factors consisted of four levels of humic acid (0, 5, 10 and 15 kg/ha) as the main plots and four plant densities (35, 55, 75 and 95 plants/m2) as sub plots. The density of 35 plants/m2 and 15 kg/ha humic led to increase in nitrogen, phosphorus, zinc and iron content of the plant. Moreover, the highest nitrogen harvest (295 kg/ha) was obtained from density of 95 plants/m2 and 15 kg/ha of humic acid. The lowest plant protein content (8.84%) was obtained from density of 95 plants/m2 and without application of humic acid. The highest grain yield and dry matter (4209 and 17955 kg/ha, respectively) were obtained from density of 95 plant/m2 and application of 15 kg/ha humic acid. Generally, it seems that high levels of plant density (greater than 95 plant/m-2) must be evaluated for cultivation of guar in Khuzestan province. In addition, application of humic acid may lead to significantly increase of guar yield in the region.
The release of nanoparticles and biodegradable chelating agents into the environment may cause toxicological and ecotoxicological effects. The aim of this study is to determine the ecotoxic effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles and ethylenediamine disuccinic acid (EDDS) on most cultured four plants. The durum wheat, bread wheat, barley, and rye are exposed to 5 mL 10 mg L−1 ZnO nanoparticles and 10 mg L−1 EDDS in the seed germination stage. Results show that these different plant species have different responses to ZnO nanoparticles and EDDS. The germination percentage of bread wheat and rye decreases in the application of ZnO nanoparticles while the germination of durum wheat and barley increases as much as in radicle elongation and seedling vigor. While ZnO treatment causes a decrease in bread wheat and rye germinated rat in the range of 33–14.3%, respectively, there is no change in germination rate of these plants at EDDS treatment. In addition, EDDS treatment positively affects barley germination rate. In conclusion, it is clear that ZnO nanoparticles have more toxic effects on bread wheat and rye than EDDS, while barley is positively affected by ZnO nanoparticles and EDDS. Are organic or inorganic chemicals, such as ethylenediamine disuccinic acid, and ZnO nanoparticles, stress factors for plants? Applying these chemicals to seed at the germination stage is the easiest and best way to understand this. Also, cereal plants are important for humans and animals because they provide basic nutrients.
In the present study, polyethyleneimine (PEI) coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) having the size of 15 nm in diameter with high magnetic saturation (60 emu/g) have been prepared by co-precipitation method. The synthesized PEI-Fe3O4 nanoparticles have been fully characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The free amine groups on the PEI-Fe3O4 surface has been covalently functionalized with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) by the catalysis of N,N'-Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) and N, N'-Dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) coupling to produce CMC-Fe3O4 nanocarriers. The prepared CMC-Fe3O4 nanocarriers have been loaded with a well-known anti-tumor drug doxorubicin (Dox) and investigated its loading and releasing profiles from the nanocarrier. The CMC acted as an excellent nanocarrier for Dox with a loading efficiency ≈ 86%. The drug releasing profile has been studied at different pH values (3.5; 5.5; and 7.4). When the pH of the release medium (phosphate buffer solution) was changed from 7.4 to 5.5 or 3.6, the drug release has been increased which indicates that the drug releasing is pH dependent.
Polyamines (PAs) are low molecular weight aliphatic nitrogenous bases containing two or more amino groups. They are produced by organisms during metabolism and are present in almost all cells. Because they play important roles in diverse plant growth and developmental processes and in environmental stress responses, they are considered as a new kind of plant biostimulant. With the development of molecular biotechnology techniques, there is increasing evidence that PAs, whether applied exogenously or produced endogenously via genetic engineering, can positively affect plant growth, productivity, and stress tolerance. However, it is still not fully understood how PAs regulate plant growth and stress responses. In this review, we attempt to cover these information gaps and provide a comprehensive and critical assessment of the published literature on the relationships between PAs and plant flowering, embryo development, senescence, and responses to several (mainly abiotic) stresses. The aim of this review is to summarize how PAs improve plants' productivity, and to provide a basis for future research on the mechanism of action of PAs in plant growth and development. Future perspectives for PA research are also suggested.
Polyamines, including putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd), and spermine (Spm), play essential roles in a wide variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Rice (Oryza sativa) contains four putative spermidine/spermine synthase (SPMS)-encoding genes (OsSPMS1, OsSPMS2, OsSPMS3, and OsACAULIS5), but none have been functionally characterized. In this study, we used a reverse genetic strategy to investigate the biological function of OsSPMS1. We generated several homozygous RNA interference (RNAi) and overexpression (OE) lines of OsSPMS1. Phenotypic analysis indicated that OsSPMS1 negatively regulates seed germination, grain size, and grain yield per plant. The ratio of Spm to Spd was significantly lower in the RNAi lines and considerably higher in the OE lines than in the wild-type (WT), suggesting that OsSPMS1 may function as a spermine synthase. S-adenosyl-L-methionine is a common precursor of polyamines and ethylene biosynthesis. The 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) and ethylene contents in seeds significantly increased in RNAi lines and decreased in OE lines, respectively, compared with wild-type. Additionally, the reduced germination rates and growth defects of OE lines could be rescued with ACC treatment. These data suggest that OsSPMS1 affects ethylene synthesis and may regulate seed germination and plant growth by affecting the ACC and ethylene pathways. Most importantly, an OsSPMS1 knockout mutant showed an increase in grain yield per plant in a high-yield variety, Suken118, suggesting that OsSPMS1 is an important target for yield enhancement in rice.
Heavy metal pollution is not only a hazard to living organisms but also an important worldwide environmental concern. Experiments were performed to investigate the physiological mechanisms of magnetic (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (nano-Fe3O4) mitigation of the toxicity of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cd and Cu) in wheat seedlings. All the Petri dishes with germinating seedlings (1d) were covered, sealed with parafilm, and placed in a dark growth chamber. All parameters (seedling growth inhibition, heavy metal accumulation, enzymatic activities, and reducing effects of nano-Fe3O4 on heavy metal toxicity) were analyzed only after five days. The results showed that the tested heavy metals significantly affected the growth of wheat seedling by decreasing root length, shoot length and even death at 10 mM concentration in the case of Cd and Cu. Heavy metals exposure also showed that superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidases (POD) activities decreased significantly when the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was significantly higher in wheat seedlings. Addition of magnetic (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (2000 mg/L) in each heavy metal solution (1 mM) significantly decreased the growth inhibition and activated protective mechanisms to reduce oxidative stress induced by heavy metals in the wheat seedlings. The reducing effects of nano-Fe3O4 against heavy metals stress could be dependent on the increase in the enzyme activity (SOD and POD). Their protective role was confirmed by the decrease in MDA content. The alleviating effect of nano-Fe3O4 is associated with their adsorption capacity of heavy metals.
Iron (Fe) nanoparticles (NPs), with 30–40 nm diameter, were stabilized on sand. The resulting synthesized Fe/SiO2 NPs, with different Fe contents (0–25 mg kg⁻¹) were employed as fertilizers in probing the mean germination time (MGT), growth and dry matter of barley and maize and their comparison with common Fe/SiO2 in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. The results showed that our fertilizers had significant effects on MGT, with the lowest of 0.58 day for barley and 0.79 day for maize; at 15 and 5 mg kg⁻¹ nano Fe/SiO2, respectively. Application of 15 mg kg⁻¹ of nano Fe/SiO2 increased the shoot length: 8.25% and 20.8% for barley and maize, respectively. However, the concentration of 25 mg kg⁻¹ had a negative impact on shoot length in barley. Increasing the concentrations of both nano and common Fe/SiO2 particles, increased the root lengths in both plants, however this increase was higher with the application of nano Fe/SiO2. Likewise, seedling length enlarged with the concentration increase of both Fe/SiO2 particles and was more pronounced with nano Fe/SiO2. The application of nano Fe/SiO2 was more effective compared with the common Fe/SiO2 in encouraging barley and maize growth. The positive impact was higher in maize than barley.
Nowadays, Lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd) contamination in rice is an important worldwide environmental concern. Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) and Nano hydroxyapatite (n-HAP) are promising materials to manage Pb and Cd contamination. This study systematically investigated the effect of Fe3O4 NPs and n-HAP on Pb and Cd stressed rice seedlings' growth, oxidative stress, Pb and Cd uptake and subcellular distribution in roots. Furthermore, we clarified the immobilization mechanism of Pb and Cd in the hydroponic system. Fe3O4 NPs and n-HAP could reduce Pb and Cd uptake of rice mainly through decreasing Pb and Cd concentrations in culture solution and combining with Pb and Cd in root tissues. Pb and Cd were immobilized by Fe3O4 NPs through complex sorption processes and by n-HAP through dissolution-precipitation and cation exchange, respectively. On the 7th day, 1000 mg/L Fe3O4 NPs reduced the contents of Pb and Cd in shoots by 90.4% and 95.8%, in roots by 23.6% and 12.6%, 2000 mg/L n-HAP reduced the contents of Pb and Cd in shoots by 94.7% and 97.3%, in roots by 93.7% and 77.6%, respectively. Both NPs enhanced the growth of rice seedlings by alleviating oxidative stress and upregulating glutathione secretion and antioxidant enzymes activity. However, Cd uptake of rice was promoted at certain concentrations of NPs. The subcellular distribution of Pb and Cd in roots indicated that both NPs decreased the percentage of Pb and Cd in the cell wall, which was unfavorable for Pb and Cd immobilization in roots. Cautious choice was needed when using these NPs to manage rice Pb and Cd contamination.
The spread of antibiotic resistant genes has become a serious global concern. Thus, the development of efficient antibiotic monitoring systems to reduce their environmental risks is of great importance. Here, a potent electrochemical sensor was fabricated to detect metronidazole (MNZ) on the basis of green synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) using Sambucus ebulus L. leaves alcoholic plant extract as a safe and impressive reducing and stabilizing agent. Several analyses such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) confirmed the production of homogeneous, monodisperse, regular, and stable magnetite NPs with a spherical morphology. The as-prepared Fe3O4NPs were afterwards applied to evaluate the electrochemical activity of MNZ by merging them with graphene nanosheets (GR NSs) on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The GR/Fe3O4NPs/GCE represented extraordinary catalytic activity toward MNZ with two dynamic ranges of 0.05–5 μM and 5–120 μM, limit of detection (LOD) of 0.23 nM, limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.76 nM, and sensitivity of 7.34 μA μM⁻¹ cm⁻². The fabricated sensor was further employed as a practical tool for electrochemical detection of MNZ in real aqueous samples.
The green synthesis of nanoparticles from bioactive compounds have attracted a wide range of application, due to increased drug efficacy and less toxicity in the nanosized mediated drug delivery model. In this study, we have fabricated copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) from the fruits of Prunus nepalensis (P. nepalensis) extract. Therefore, the aim of present study was to investigate the anticancer ability of P. nepalensis fruit phytochemical copper nanoaprticles (PNFPCuNP) on cancerous human breast cell line (MCF-7) and healthy (MCFA10) cell lines. Crystalline CuNPs of P. nepalensis synthesis was confirmed by different physicochemical analytical techniques such as UV–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis); Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR); Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM); and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Nanoparticle Size was found to be ranging from 35 to 50 nm with the average size of 42.5 nm. Further, after synthesized compounds were tested anticancer activity on human breast cancer cell lines. Following 72 h treatment to PNFPCuNP, the expression of apoptotic marker genes (P21, p53, P14/P19, Caspase-3) were studied in MCF-7 cells treated at 100 to 200 μg of PNFP-CuNP. Our results showed that PNFP-CuNP increased the gene expression of apoptotic genes in a dose-dependent manner. The real-time PCR data showed a significant upregulation in p53, Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 and down regulation in the mRNA expression of Ras and Myc genes in MCF-7 cells exposed to PNFP-CuNP. Collectively, the data from this study stated that P. nepalennsis fruit extract phytochemical derived nanoparticles induced apoptosis via the up regulation of tumour suppressor genes and down regulation of oncogenes in MCF-7 cells. Finally, our study confirmed the CuNPs synthesis from P. nepalensis fruit phytochemical, which showed environmental friendly anticancer activity.
Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) pollution is a major environmental issue affecting plant production. Spermidine (Spd) is involved in plant response to abiotic stress. However, the role and associated mechanism of Spd under Cd + Pb combined stress are poorly understood. The potential protective role of Spd at different concentration on rice (Oryza sativa L.) seedlings exposed to Cd + Pb treatment was investigated by a hydroponic experiment in this study. The results showed that exogenous Spd enhanced the tolerance of rice seedlings to Cd + Pb stress, resulted in an increase in plant height, root length, fresh weight and dry weight of roots and shoots. Further, application of Spd decreased the contents of hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, malondialdehyde, and the accumulation of Cd and Pb, and increased the contents of mineral nutrient, carotenoids, chlorophyll, proline, soluble sugar, soluble protein, total phenol, flavonoid, anthocyanin, and antioxidant enzymes activities in roots and shoots of rice seedlings under Cd + Pb stress. Particularly, 0.5 mmol L⁻¹ Spd was the most effective to alleviate the adverse impacts on growth and physiological metabolism of rice seedlings under Cd + Pb stress. Principal component analysis and heat map clustering established correlations between physio-biochemical parameters and further revealed Spd alleviated Cd + Pb damage in rice seedling was associated with inhibition of accumulation and translocation of Cd and Pb, increasing the contents of photosynthetic pigments and mineral nutrient and stimulation of antioxidative response and osmotic adjustment. Overall, our findings provide an important prospect for use of Spd in modulating Cd + Pb tolerance in rice plants. Spd could help to alleviate Cd + Pb damage through inhibition of accumulation and translocation of Cd and Pb and stimulation of oxidant-defense system and osmotic adjustment.
Soil salinity inhibits seed germination and reduces seedling survival rate, resulting in significant yield reductions in crops. Here, we identified a polyamine oxidase, OsPAO3, conferring salt tolerance at the germination stage in rice (Oryza sativa L.), through map-based cloning approach. OsPAO3 is up-regulated under salt stress at the germination stage and highly expressed in various organs. Overexpression of OsPAO3 increased activity of polyamine oxidases, enhancing the polyamine content in seed coleoptiles. Increased polyamine may lead to the enhance of the activity of ROS-scavenging enzymes to eliminate over-accumulated H2O2 and the reduction of Na⁺ content in seed coleoptiles to maintain ion homeostasis and weaken Na⁺ damage. These changes resulted in stronger salt tolerance at the germination stage in rice. Our findings not only provide a novel gene for breeding new salt-tolerant rice cultivars but also help to elucidate the mechanism of salt tolerance in rice.
Chromium (Cr) is a serious environmental contaminant that drastically limited the crop yields. Nitric oxide (NO) and spermine (Spm) portrayal significance in improving the plant tolerance against abiotic stresses. Therefore, we investigate the protective efficacy of seed priming with NO (100 µM) and/or Spm (0.01 mM) in minimizing the Cr-induced toxic effects in rice (Oryza sativa) plants. Our outcomes revealed that Cr alone treatments (100 µM) notably reduced the seed germination rate, plant growth, photosynthetic apparatus, nutrients uptake and antioxidant defense system, but extra generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Interestingly, the combine applications of NO and Spm significantly reversed the Cr-induced toxic effects by reducing the Cr-accumulation, maintaining the nutrient balance, improving the germination indices, levels of photosynthetic pigments (Chl a by 24.6%, Chl b by 36.3%, Chl (a+b) by 57.2% and carotenoids by 79.4%), photosystem II, photosynthesis gas exchange parameters, and total soluble sugar (74.9%) by improving antioxidative enzyme activities. As a result, NO + Spm lowered the accumulation of oxidative markers (H2O2 by 93.9/70.4%, O2•‒ by 86.3/69.9% and MDA by 97.2/73.7% in leaves/roots), electrolyte leakage (71.4% in leaves) and improved the plant growth traits. Based on these findings,, it can be concluded that NO triggers Spm to minimize the Cr-accumulation and its adverse effects on rice plants. Additionally, combined treatments (NO + Spm) were more effective in minimizing the Cr-induced toxic effects in comparison to NO and Spm alone treatments. Thus, co-exposure of NO and Spm may be utilized to boost rice tolerance under Cr stress conditions.
Seed priming is a well-established method for promoting seed germination and seedling growth. For Carex schmidtii, as a critical target plant species for restoration of degraded tussock wetlands in Momoge National Nature Reserve (MNNR) in northeast China, improving seed germination is critical to its large-scale population restoration. We conducted laboratory experiments to assess the effects of priming reagents, their concentrations and their interactions on seed germination and seedling growth to explore the most effective reagent and its optimum concentration. Priming significantly promoted C. schmidtii seed germination and seedling growth but significantly differed under varying priming treatments. Priming with GA3 (0.2 g·L⁻¹) significantly enhanced seed germination rate, speed, potential, index, vigor index and shoot growth of C. schmidtii compared to control conditions. KNO3 treatments significantly promoted root biomass, total biomass (0.1%) and root length (0.2%). Additionally, shoot diameter of each priming treatment was significantly from the control. In conclusion, priming with 0.2 g·L⁻¹ GA3 and 0.1–0.2% KNO3 significantly stimulated seed germination and promoted C. schmidtii seedling growth. These findings advance our understanding of the effect of priming on C. schmidtii germination and seedling growth and provide technical support for tussock wetland restoration in MNNR.
There are few reports on the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to promote growth and stress tolerance of soybean (Glycine max L.) in agricultural soils contaminated with heavy metals. The present study evaluated the role of AMF in promoting tolerance and growth, as well as uptake of heavy metals in shoots of soybean plants. Soybean plants were inoculated with AMF (Funneliformis mosseae) in a pot experiment polluted with different concentrations of heavy metals [copper (Cu), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn)] as well as their combination. The tested AMF inoculum promoted the soybean growth and seed yield. Increased colonization of the soybean roots improved the soybean growth through increased phosphorus uptake and accumulation in the plant tissues by 68.8%. The results showed that soybean grown in the contaminated soils inoculated with AMF were more tolerant in alleviating the metals toxicity by retaining the heavy metals in the roots, thereby reducing translocation of Cu, Pb and Zn by 21.8, 57.6 and 67.3% respectively in the aerial part of the plant and improving the overall plant productivity by 59.1%. The findings provide evidence of the potential of AMF in phytoremediation of agricultural soils contaminated with toxic metals.
In this study, a bimetallic CuFe-incorporated MIL-101(Cr) adsorbent was developed with enhanced CO-adsorption capacity and oxygen resistance. Different compositions of bimetallic Cu(II)–Fe(II) were incorporated into the MIL-101(Cr) framework with ultrahigh porosity by the double-solvent (DS) method, followed by facile reduction at a low temperature of 250°C. By employing formate (HCOO−), Cu(II) was selectively reduced to Cu(I) at 250°C. Moreover, the presence of the reducing agent, Fe(II), enhanced the reduction of Cu(II) in the adsorbent. The obtained results indicated that the synergistic effect of utilizing Fe(II) and employing the DS method significantly enhanced the dispersion of the formed Cu(I) in the support. The DS-assisted CuFe (4 mmol g−1 of CuCl and 1.0 mmol g−1 FeCl2)-incorporated MIL-100(Fe) adsorbent exhibited a high CO-adsorption capacity of ca. 3.24 mmol g−1 and CO/N2 selectivity of 428 at 25°C and 100 kPa, which were superior to those of the counterpart that was prepared by the wetness impregnation method. Additionally, the CO-adsorption capacity of the prepared CuFe-incorporated MIL-100(Fe) was still 90∼65% after it was exposed to atmospheric humidity for 15∼30 days, thereby demonstrating its superior oxygen-resistant stability compared to those of the benchmark π-complexation adsorbents containing Cu(I).
• Copper (Cu)‐pollution of agricultural lands is a big threat to crop production. Exogenous chemical treatment is an easily accessible and instant approach to remediate metal toxicity, including Cu‐toxicity in plants.
• We compared the effects of ascobin (ASC, ascorbic acid:citric acid at 2:1) and glutathione (GSH) in mitigation of Cu‐toxicity in rice.
• Plants subjected to Cu‐stress displayed growth inhibition and biomass reduction which were connected to declined levels of chlorophylls, relative water content (RWC), total phenolic compounds, carotenoids and Mg²⁺. An increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde indicated an evident oxidative stress in Cu‐stressed plants. However, application of ASC or GSH minimized the inhibitory effects of Cu‐stress on rice plants by restricting Cu²⁺ uptake, and improving mineral balance, chlorophyll contents and RWC. Both ASC and GSH pretreatments reduced the levels of ROS and malondialdehyde, and improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes, suggesting their alleviating roles against oxidative damage. A comparison on the effects of ASC and GSH under Cu‐stress revealed that ASC was more effective in restricting Cu²⁺ accumulation (69.5% by ASC and 57.1% by GSH), Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ homeostasis, protection of photosynthetic pigments, and activation of antioxidant defense mechanisms [catalase (110.4%), ascorbate peroxidase (76.5%) and guaiacol peroxidase (39.0%) by ASC, and catalase (58.9%) and ascorbate peroxidase (59.9%) by GSH] in rice than GSH, and eventually resulting in better protection of ASC‐pretreated plants against Cu‐stress.
• In conclusion, although ASC and GSH differed in induction of stress protective mechanisms, both were effective in improvement of rice performance against Cu‐phytotoxicity.
To stimulate sustainable nanotechnology in agriculture, we have developed an easy, low-cost, and eco-friendly method for the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (MHCFe) using Moringa oleifera leaves and chitosan. The effect of these iron oxide nanoparticles on corn seeds germination was evaluated. The biogenic synthesis was performed by using a one-pot chitosan-moringa hydrothermal treatment. Structural characterization was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Magnetic properties were evaluated using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles loaded with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) were used to study the germination rate and early growth of corn seed. The combination of moringa and chitosan has a positive effect on the Index-speed germination and growth parameters of corn plants and no toxic impact on seed germination.
The present study was intended to assess the potential of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and Bacillus subtilis S4 in mitigation of arsenic (As) stress in Cucurbita moschata. Cucurbita moschata seedlings were subjected to As stress for 60 days. Reduced level of growth parameters including photosynthetic pigments, rate of photosynthesis and gas exchange characteristics was observed in seedlings subjected to As stress. However, IONPs and B. subtilis S4 improved growth attributes and proline contents in supplemented C. moschata seedlings. Bacillus subtilis S4 inoculated seedlings showed higher activity of peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) under As toxicity. Similarly, the co-application of IONPs and B. subtilis S4 further increased the activity of these antioxidative enzymes. The As stress alleviation in inoculated C. moschata seedlings is credited to reduced levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) in IONPs and B. subtilis S4-treated plants. Furthermore, synergism between plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) and IONPs enhanced the biosynthesis of stress mitigating polyamines including spermidine and putrescine in As-stressed seedlings. Current research reveals that synergistic application of IONPs and B. subtilis S4 is an effective sustainable and ecofriendly approach for alleviation of As stress in C. moschata seedlings.
Copper (Cu) contamination in agricultural soil poses severe threats to living organisms, and possible ecofriendly solutions need to be considered for Cu immobilization, such as using biochar. A pot study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of biochar derived from rice straw (RSB) at various application rates (0, 2.5, 5 and 10% w/w) to mitigate possible risks of Cu solubility and its uptake by ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) as forage. The plant growth parameters as well as soil chemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity and cation exchange capacity) notably improved with the increasing RSB application. Moreover, prominent reduction was observed in soil bioavailable Cu concentration by 96% with RSB application of 10% relative to control. In addition, Cu content in B. nivea roots, leaves and stems decreased by 60, 28 and 22%, respectively, for 10% RSB application. It was noted that chlorophyll content and gas exchange parameters in leaves were significantly higher at 10% RSB application than in control. Furthermore, 10% RSB resulted in a greater reduction in oxidative stress from the Cu in soil. Thus, soil amendment with RSB demonstrated positive results for Cu stabilization in aged Cu-contaminated soil, thereby reducing its accumulation and translocation in B. nivea and mitigating livestock feed security risks.
Anti-cancer drug, free base doxorubicin hydrophobic (DOX-HCL) or paclitaxel (PTX), EPPT-FITC and, oleic acid-Fe3O4 nanoparticles (OA-Fe3O4) were incorporated into the tree block PLA-PEG-PLA copolymer. Properties of these nanoparticles, such as structural, magnetic, drug-loading efficiency, drug release kinetics and in vitro cytotoxicity were evaluated in vitro for controlled drug release and targeted drug delivery. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) results showed that BMNPs/EPPT/drug have spherical morphology with diameters in the range of 179–203 nm. The release rate of drug from multifunctional nanoparticles was significantly increased with decreasing of the pH. Cytotoxicity assays with drug-loaded nanoparticles were performed in vitro using normal and breast tumor cell lines (MCF12-A and MCF-7 cells respectively), and in vivo evaluating antitumor activity in immunocompetent BABL/c mice. Neither in vitro nor in vivo cytotoxicity was observed for blank nanoparticles. In vitro cytotoxicity assay indicated that the IC50 values of BMNPs/EPPT/drug were significantly lower compared to other nanoparticles. Selectivity of interaction between receptors in breast cancer cells and EPPT peptides of multifunctional nanoparticles resulted in a significant decrease in cell viability in BMNPs/EPPT compared with other nanoparticles. Furthermore, drug-loaded BMNPs/EPPT produced significant decrease of tumor volumes compared with other nanoparticles.
In recent decades, nanoparticles have been intensively applied in agriculture. Two experiments were carried out to demonstrate the potential of nano‐iron oxide (n‐Fe2O3) as seed treatment (soaking and priming) at different concentrations (0, 10, 50, 100 and 500 mg/L) for enhancing sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) germination and seedling growth under non‐stressed conditions (Experiment I), and to investigate the impacts of n‐Fe2O3 seed priming treatments (0, 10, 50, 100 and 500 mg/L) on growth, chlorophyll content, chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange, water relations and lipid peroxidation under salt stress (150 mmol NaCl solution) (Experiment II). Results indicated that seed soaking with n‐Fe2O3 at 10 mg/L was the best treatment in improving speed and per cent of germination, while seed priming with n‐Fe2O3 at 50 and 100 mg/L was the most effective treatment in improving seedling (12 days old) growth. Salt stress decreased chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, relative water content, osmotic potential and growth, along with increased lipid peroxidation. Among chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters, the photosynthetic performance index of PSII (PIABS) was the most salt‐responsive. Seed priming with n‐Fe2O3 at 500 mg/L increased sorghum growth (45 days old), through increased photosystem II efficiency, chlorophyll index, photosynthetic rate and relative water content with decreased lipid peroxidation. Overall, this study indicated that use of n‐Fe2O3 as a pre‐sowing seed treatment can enhance germination and seedling growth of sorghum and protect from negative impacts of salinity stress.
The study was focused on the influence of salicylic acid (SA) on maize seeds germination and on some physiological and biochemical processes in maize plants growing in the hydroponic culture under copper (Cu) stress. A significant influence of SA pretreatment on the advanced induction of the maize seeds metabolic activity and the level of the endogenous SA in germinated seeds and developing roots have been stated. Although, the ability of maize seeds to uptake SA and accumulate it in the germinated roots was confirmed, the growth inhibition of Cu-stressed maize seedlings was not ameliorated by SA seeds pretreatment. Cu-stressed plants exhibited a decrease in the photosynthetic pigment concentration and the increase in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) - an indicator of an excess energy in PSII antenna assemblies lost as a heat. The amelioration effect of SA application was found only for carotenoids content which increased in stressed plants. It was also shown that maize roots growing in stress conditions significantly differed in the chemical composition in comparison to the roots of control plants, but the SA pretreatment did not affect these differences. On the other hand, it was found that SA seed pretreatment significantly influenced the ability of stressed plants to accumulate copper in the roots. It was stated that a higher level of exogenous SA application led to a lower accumulation of Cu ions in maize roots. Cu-stressed plants exhibited higher oxidative stress in roots than in leaves which was manifested as an increase in the concentration of hydrogen peroxide due to stress factor application. We observed an increase in catalase (CAT) activity in leaves of Cu-stressed plants which corresponded with a lower H2O2 content when compared with roots where the hydrogen peroxide level was higher, and the inhibition of the CAT activity was found. Furthermore, we found that the SA seed pretreatment led to a decrease in the H2O2 content in the roots of the Cu-stressed plants, but it did not influence the H2O2 level in leaves. The increase in hydrogen peroxide content in the roots of Cu-stressed plants correlated with a higher activity of the MnSODI and MnSODII isoforms. It was found that SA pretreatment caused a decrease in MnSODII activity accompanied by the decrease in H2O2 concentration. Achieved results indicated also that the changes in the chemical composition of the root tissue under copper stress constituted protection mechanisms of blocking copper flow into other plant organs. However, it might be assumed that the root tissue remodelling under Cu stress did not only prevent against the Cu ions uptake but also limited the absorption of minerals required for the normal growth leading to the inhibition of the plant development.
Malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxy-nonenal (HNE) and the F2-isoprostane 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α) are the best investigated products of lipid peroxidation. MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α are produced from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) both by chemical reactions by reactions catalyzed by enzymes. 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α and other eicosanoid F2-isoprostanes are derived exclusively from arachidonic acid (AA). The number of PUFAs that may contribute to MDA and HNE is much higher. MDA is the prototype of the so called thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α are the most frequently measured biomarkers of oxidative stress, namely of lipid peroxidation. In many diseases, higher concentrations of MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α are measured in biological samples as compared to health. Therefore, elevated oxidative stress is generally regarded as a pathological condition. Decreasing the concentration of biomarkers of oxidative stress by changing life style, by nutritional intake of antioxidants or by means of drugs is generally believed to be beneficial to health. Reliable assessment of oxidative stress by measuring MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α in biological fluids is highly challenging for two important reasons: Because of the duality of oxidative stress, i.e., its origin from chemical and enzymatic reactions, and because of pre-analytical and analytical issues. This article focuses on these key issues. It reviews reported analytical methods and their principles for the quantitative measurement of MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α in biological samples including plasma and urine, and critically discusses their biological and biomedical outcome which is rarely crystal clear and free of artefacts.