The Role of Silver Nanoparticles in Response of In Vitro Boysenberry Plants to Drought Stress

Abstract

Drought is one of the leading abiotic factors limiting morphological and physiological activities in blackberry cultivation. In this study, the effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on some morphological and biochemical processes in boysenberry (Rubus ursinus Chamisso and Schlenhtendal) under drought stress were investigated. The experiment was performed with three drought stress levels simulated with Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (0, 4, 8%) and three AgNP treatments (0, 0.1, 0.2 mg L−1) in vitro conditions. Drought stress reduced root and shoot development of boysenberry plants grown in vitro. The addition of AgNPs significantly alleviated the adverse effect of drought stress and increased the plant growth parameters. Antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes increased in boysenberry leaves when treated with AgNPs under drought conditions, while the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased. As a result of the study, 0.1 mg L−1 AgNPs is recommended as the most effective dose to promote the growth and development of in vitro boysenberry plants under drought stress.

Recent advances in nano-fertilizers: synthesis, crop yield impact, and economic analysis

“…Silver nanoparticles, have been observed to increase the content of chlorophyll and to increase the rate of photosynthesis. 56 This helps the entire plant to grow and develop. Studies indicate that nanoparticulate application helps to regulate antioxidant enzymatic activity and maintains cellular water balance.…”

“…In addition, research has suggested that silver nanoparticles have the potential to provide resistance to drought stress in a variety of plant species. 56…”