Biofortification is the process of developing a crop with bioavailable micronutrients in its edible parts. This has been done using nanofertilizers, since they can be used to feed plants in a gradual and controlled manner. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of ZnO NPs in different concentrations on the commercial and phytochemical quality of the basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) crop, as it is one of the most important aromatic plants used for chemical and pharmacological properties. Four concentrations of ZnO NPs (5, 10, 15 and 20 mg L-1) and a control treatment under a completely randomized design, were evaluated. The results show statistical differences in morphological parameters (leaf and stem fresh weight, height, number of leaves, leaf area and dry weight) with a slight tendency to increase on the treated basil plants mainly at concentration of 20 mg L-1. The highest chlorophyll content (5.54 µg g-1 FW) was obtained for the control treatment, whereas the lowest one (4.14 µg g-1 FW) was observed for the 20 mg L-1 treatment. However, carotenoid content in the leaves was markedly higher than the control, the control had the concentration of 0.84 µg g-1 FW, while the treatment with 20 mg L-1 ZnO NPs registered a value of 1.08 µg g-1 FW. The highest total phenolic, flavonoid, antioxidant capacity and vitamin C content was obtained for 20 mg L-1 ZnO NPs. Finally, basil plants treated with ZnO NPs could stimulate enzymatic activity, as demonstrated in this study. Detailed studies are suggested to understand the mechanism of action of nanoscale materials.
Crop biofortification is a recent strategy based on the production of plants rich in micronutrients for human consumption. The biofortification of plants with minerals is considered one of the least expensive and most efficient ways to improve the commercial and nutritional quality of horticultural products, in addition to improving crop yields. The objective of the research was to evaluate commercial and phytochemical quality, physiological parameters, and zinc concentration in lettuce leaves (Lactuca sativa L.) after foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPsZnO) produced under a hydroponic system. The experiment was carried out with six treatments (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mg.L-1 NPsZnO) of five replicates each, under a completely randomized design. Five applications every 15 days of each concentration of NPsZnO were made through the crop cycle. The results show no statistical differences in physiological parameters (height, number of leaves, leaf size, crown perimeter, fresh and dry weight), but that do show a slight tendency to increase on the treated lettuce mainly at concentrations of 20 and 25 mg.L-1. A positive correlation was found between the phytochemical variables (phenolics and total flavonols) and the concentration of NPsZnO. Even though there was not a clear correlation between NPsZnO concentration and the variables of commercial quality; Zn content in the plant tissue was improved, thereby obtaining a biofortified product for the final consumer.
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