Phytotoxic effect of silver nanoparticles on seed germination and growth of terrestrial plants. (2nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Budhani, Shruti; Egboluche, Nzube Prisca; Arslan, Zikri; Yu, Hongtao; Deng, Hua
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental science and health. Volume 37:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 355
• Publication Date: 2019-10-02
• Subjects: Silver nanoparticles -- seed germination -- terrestrial plants -- phytotoxic mechanism -- nano-bio interaction; Carcinogenesis -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Environmentally induced diseases -- Periodicals; Environmental Health -- periodicals; Carcinogens, Environmental -- periodicals; Hazardous Substances -- periodicals; 616.994071
• DOI: 10.1080/10590501.2019.1676600
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1059-0501

Abstract

Abstract: Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) exhibit size and concentration dependent toxicity to terrestrial plants, especially crops. AgNP exposure could decrease seed germination, inhibit seedling growth, affect mass and length of roots and shoots. The phytotoxic pathway has been partly understood. Silver (as element, ion or AgNP) accumulates in roots/leaves and triggers the defense mechanism at cellular and tissue levels, which alters metabolism, antioxidant activities and related proteomic expression. Botanical changes (either increase or decrease) in response to AgNP exposure include reactive oxygen species generation, superoxide dismutase activities, H2 O2 level, total chlorophyll, proline, carotenoid, ascorbate and glutathione contents, etc. Such processes lead to abnormal morphological changes, suppression of photosynthesis and/or transpiration, and other symptoms. Although neutral or beneficial effects are also reported depending on plant species, adverse effects dominate in majority of the studies. More in depth research is needed to confidently draw any conclusions and to guide legislation and regulations.