Zein Nanoparticles Uptake and Translocation in Hydroponically Grown Sugar Cane Plants

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate the uptake and translocation of positively charged zein nanoparticles (ZNPs) in hydroponically grown sugar cane plants. Fluorescent ZNPs (spherical and measuring an average diameter 135 ± 3 nm) were synthesized by emulsion-diffusion method from FITC-tagged zein. Fluorescent measurement following digestion of plant tissue indicated that sugar cane roots had a significant adhesion of ZNPs, 342.5 ± 24.2 μg NPs/mg of dry matter, while sugar cane leaves contained a very limited amount, 12.9 ± 1.2 μg NPs/mg dry matter for high dose(1.75 mg/ml) after 12 h. Confocal microscopy studies confirmed presence of fluorescent ZNPs in the epidermis and endodermis of the root system. Given their ability to adhere to roots for extended periods of time, ZNPs are proposed as effective delivery systems for agrochemicals to sugar cane plants, but more studies are needed to identify effect of nanoparticle exposure to health of the plant.

Polymeric nanoparticles as an alternative for application of gibberellic acid in sustainable agriculture: a field study

“…Prasad et al . 32 reported that zein nanoparticles were internalized by the roots and were transported to different plant organs. Since such nanoparticles can penetrate the plant tissue, they may be transported within the roots by apoplastic and symplastic pathways, which are involved in the uptake of water and nutrients 27 .…”

Atrazine nanoencapsulation improves pre‐emergence herbicidal activity against Bidens pilosa without enhancing long‐term residual effect on Glycine max

“…Furthermore, it may be hypothesized that nanoencapsulation could directly favor the plant‐atrazine interaction, allowing more efficient root uptake and xylem translocation of the herbicide in the shoots, where the herbicide will act. Studies have shown that some polymeric and lipid nanoparticles can be absorbed by roots or leaves, allowing their distribution throughout the plant . Assays monitoring fluorescence‐labeled nanocapsules and atrazine levels in different plant tissues are underway to unveil the mechanisms of action of nanoatrazine in pre‐emergence treatments.…”

“…Studies have shown that some polymeric and lipid nanoparticles can be absorbed by roots or leaves, allowing their distribution throughout the plant. [37][38][39] Assays monitoring fluorescence-labeled nanocapsules and atrazine levels in different plant tissues are underway to unveil the mechanisms of action of nanoatrazine in pre-emergence treatments.…”

Enhanced plant growth promoting role of mPEG‐PLGA‐based nanoparticles as an activator protein PeaT1 carrier in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

“…Another reason is that the NPs can easily penetrate the cell wall to release the proteins in situ , which facilitates protein–receptor interactions. Several previous reports revealed that some NPs can enter plant tissue through foliar stoma or root absorption …”

“…Several previous reports revealed that some NPs can enter plant tissue through foliar stoma or root absorption. [32][33][34][35] The wheat seeds treated with P@NPs showed positive effects on seed vigor index [ Fig. 3(b)].…”