Influence of CeO2 nanoparticles on seed germination and synthesis of phenols in spruce seedlings

Abstract

Modern technologies make it possible to obtain nanoparticles of biogenic metals for use as an additional source of micronutrient for plants. However, the complexity of mass application of nanosized metal particles and their oxides is due to the significant differences in physicochemical properties of nanocrystalline structures which are dependent on production technology, nanoparticle size, surface charge (-potential), and stabilization methods. The biocompatibility and nature of nanoparticles has an impact on living organisms. Regarding the effectiveness and feasibility of using cerium dioxide nanoparticles in crop practice, there is no definitive conclusion. Due to difficulty in the preparation of planting material for seedlings of conifers, the study of the effect of nanocrystalline cerium dioxide on plants is not well researched. The aim of our research was to study the effect of nanocrystalline cerium dioxide solution on the germination of spruce seeds and then to evaluate its effect on the synthesis of phenols as components of the antioxidant system within seedlings. The research used methods for determining the germination energy and seed similarities. Other methods used in this research were determining the content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and phenolic antioxidants. The results showed that nanocrystalline cerium dioxide in a concentration of solution from 0.1 to 1.0 mg/mL stimulates the germination of spruce seeds. Under the influence of nanoparticles at a concentration of 0.1 mg/L in the tissues of spruce seedlings increases the content of phenolic compounds. The increase in antioxidant activity of phenols in seedling tissues while decreasing their total amount at a concentration of nanocrystalline cerium dioxide from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/L occurs when increasing the total pool of flavonoids, which are determined by high antioxidant activity. Nanocrystalline cerium dioxide is a promising material for stimulating germination energy and on the overall germination of spruce seeds.