Biogenic nanoparticles application in agriculture for ROS mitigation and abiotic stress tolerance: A review
Muhammad Faisal Maqsood, Muhammad Shahbaz, Faizan Khalid, Yumna Rasheed, Kanza Asif, Nargis Naz, Usman Zulfiqar, Faisal Zulfiqar, Anam Moosa, Khalid H. Alamer, Houneïda Attia
Abstract
Plants face abiotic stressors, such as extreme temperatures, drought, salinity, flood, and heavy metals, which negatively impact their growth and development, leading to lower agricultural productivity, food security concerns, and financial losses. Nanotechnology has emerged as a solution to mitigate these negative effects, improving resource use efficiency, reducing pollution, preventing plant diseases, and enhancing sustainability. Nanoparticles (NPs) addresses nutrient deficiencies, enhance stress tolerance, and improve crop yield and quality. Sustainable and environment friendly methods for synthesizing NPs have been developed over the last few decades. NPs possess distinct qualities and can serve as powerful sensors, controlling critical physiological and biochemical processes in plants. Furthermore, NPs offer unique mechanisms for adapting to changing climatic conditions. Abiotic stress generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress and impairs redox homeostasis. The roles of ROS in signaling cascades and stress tolerance are gaining recognition. This review explores the potential of plant-based metallic and metallic oxide NPs to mitigate the harmful consequences of ROS. We have discussed green/biological synthesis methods, potential roles in agriculture, and the mechanisms by which plant-based NPs can counteract ROS harmful effects on plant physiology. Incorporating green nanoparticles for ROS mitigation and abiotic stress tolerance holds promising potential to revolutionize agricultural practices. Utilizing nanotechnology paves the way for sustainable crop cultivation, ensuring increased crop yields and enhanced environmental resilience.