Effects of Phytogenically Synthesized Bimetallic Ag/ZnO Nanomaterials and Nitrogen-Based Fertilizers on Biochemical and Yield Attributes of Two Wheat Varieties

Metal nanoparticles and pesticides under global climate change: Assessing the combined effects of multiple abiotic stressors on soil microbial ecosystems

The soil is a vital resource that hosts many microorganisms crucial in biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem health. However, human activities such as the use of metal nanoparticles (MNPs), pesticides and the impacts of global climate change (GCCh) can significantly affect soil microbial communities (SMC). For many years, pesticides and, more recently, nanoparticles have contributed to sustainable agriculture to ensure continuous food production to sustain the significant growth of the world population and, therefore, the demand for food. Pesticides have a recognized pest control capacity. On the other hand, nanoparticles have demonstrated a high ability to improve water and nutrient retention, promote plant growth, and control pests. However, it has been reported that their accumulation in agricultural soils can also adversely affect the environment and soil microbial health. In addition, climate change, with its variations in temperature and extreme water conditions, can lead to drought and increased soil salinity, modifying both soil conditions and the composition and function of microbial communities. Abiotic stressors can interact and synergistically or additively affect soil microorganisms, significantly impacting soil functioning and the capacity to provide ecosystem services. Therefore, this work reviewed the current scientific literature to understand how multiple stressors interact and affect the SMC. In addition, the importance of molecular tools such as metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, or metabolomics in the study of the responses of SMC to exposure to multiple abiotic stressors was examined. Future research directions were also proposed, focusing on exploring the complex interactions between stressors and their long-term effects and developing strategies for sustainable soil management. These efforts will contribute to the preservation of soil health and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

Interactive effects of ammonium sulfate and lead on alfalfa in rare earth tailings: Physiological responses and toxicity thresholds

Ion-adsorption rare earth ore contains significant levels of leaching agents and heavy metals, leading to substantial co-contamination. This presents significant challenges for ecological rehabilitation, yet there is limited understanding of the toxicity thresholds associated with the co-contamination of ammonium sulfate (AS) and lead (Pb) on pioneer plants. Here, we investigated the toxicity thresholds of various aspects of alfalfa, including growth, ultrastructural changes, metabolism, antioxidant system response, and Pb accumulation. The results indicated that the co-contamination of AS-Pb decreased the dry weight of shoot and root by 26 %-77 % and 18 %-92 %, respectively, leading to irregular root cell morphology and nucleus disintegration. The high concentration and combined exposures to AS and Pb induced oxidative stress on alfalfa, which stimulated the defense of the antioxidative system and resulted in an increase in proline levels and a decrease in soluble sugars. Structural equation modeling analysis and integrated biomarker response elucidated that the soluble sugars, proline, and POD were the key physiological indicators of alfalfa under stresses and indicated that co-exposure induced more severe oxidative stress in alfalfa. The toxicity thresholds under single exposure were 496 (EC5), 566 (EC10), 719 (EC25), 940 (EC50) mg kg-1 for AS and 505 (EC5), 539 (EC10), 605 (EC25), 678 (EC50) mg kg-1 for Pb. This study showed that AS-Pb pollution notably influenced plant growth performance and had negative impacts on the growth processes, metabolite levels, and the antioxidant system in plants. Our findings contribute to a theoretical foundation and research necessity for evaluating ecological risks in mining areas and assessing the suitability of ecological restoration strategies.

Emerging concern of nano-pollution in agro-ecosystem: Flip side of nanotechnology

Nanomaterials (NMs) have proven to be a game-changer in agriculture, showcasing their potential to boost plant growth and safeguarding crops. The agricultural sector has widely adopted NMs, benefiting from their small size, high surface area, and optical properties to augment crop productivity and provide protection against various stressors. This is attributed to their unique characteristics, contributing to their widespread use in agriculture. Human exposure from various components of agro-environmental sectors (soil, crops) NMs residues are likely to upsurge with exposure paths may stimulates bioaccumulation in food chain. With the aim to achieve sustainability, nanotechnology (NTs) do exhibit its potentials in various domains of agriculture also have its flip side too. In this review article we have opted a fusion approach using bibliometric based analysis of global research trend followed by a holistic assessment of pros and cons i.e. toxicological aspect too. Moreover, we have also tried to analyse the current scenario of policy associated with the application of NMs in agro-environment.

Exogenously Applied Cyclitols and Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Affect the Soluble Carbohydrate Profiles of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Seedling

Cyclitols, such as myo-inositol and its isomers and methyl derivatives (i.e., d-chiro-inositol and d-pinitol (3-O-methyl-chiro-inositol)), are classified as osmolytes and osmoprotectants and are significantly involved in plant responses to abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity and cold. Moreover, d-pinitol demonstrates a synergistic effect with glutathione (GSH), increasing its antioxidant properties. However, the role of cyclitols in plant protection against stresses caused by metal nanoparticles is not yet known. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of myo-inositol, d-chiro-inositol and d-pinitol on wheat germination, seedling growth and changes in the profile of soluble carbohydrates in response to biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles ((Bio)Ag NPs). It was found that cyclitols were absorbed by germinating grains and transported within the growing seedlings but this process was disrupted by (Bio)Ag NPs. Cyclitols applied alone induced sucrose and 1-kestose accumulation in seedlings slightly, while (Bio)Ag NP doubled the concentrations of both sugars. This coincided with a decrease in monosaccharides; i.e., fructose and glucose. Cyclitols and (Bio)Ag NPs present in the endosperm resulted in reductions in monosaccharides, maltose and maltotriose, with no effect on sucrose and 1-kestose. Similar changes occurred in seedlings developing from primed grains. Cyclitols that accumulated in grain and seedlings during grain priming with d-pinitol and glutathione did not prevent the phytotoxic effects of (Bio)Ag NPs.

Nano-biotechnology in tumour and cancerous disease: A perspective review

In recent years, drug manufacturers and researchers have begun to consider the nanobiotechnology approach to improve the drug delivery system for tumour and cancer diseases. In this article, we review current strategies to improve tumour and cancer drug delivery, which mainly focuses on sustaining biocompatibility, biodistribution, and active targeting. The conventional therapy using cornerstone drugs such as fludarabine, cisplatin etoposide, and paclitaxel has its own challenges especially not being able to discriminate between tumour versus normal cells which eventually led to toxicity and side effects in the patients. In contrast to the conventional approach, nanoparticle-based drug delivery provides target-specific delivery and controlled release of the drug, which provides a better therapeutic window for treatment options by focusing on the eradication of diseased cells via active targeting and sparing normal cells via passive targeting. Additionally, treatment of tumours associated with the brain is hampered by the impermeability of the blood-brain barriers to the drugs, which eventually led to poor survival in the patients. Nanoparticle-based therapy offers superior delivery of drugs to the target by breaching the blood-brain barriers. Herein, we provide an overview of the properties of nanoparticles that are crucial for nanotechnology applications. We address the potential future applications of nanobiotechnology targeting specific or desired areas. In particular, the use of nanomaterials, biostructures, and drug delivery methods for the targeted treatment of tumours and cancer are explored.

Nano-Biofertilizers Synthesis and Applications in Agroecosystems

Green chemistry and nanobiotechnology have great potential for generating new and significant products that are favorable to the environment, industry, and consumers. The nanoforms of metals and nanocomposites are more effective and efficient agents than their bulkier counterparts because of their distinctive physical, chemical, and optical properties. Green technology is a rapidly growing scientific field that has recently received attention due to its many applications. Different nanoparticle dimensions, sizes, and bioactivities will develop as a consequence of changes in the biomaterials employed for synthesis. The existing understanding of several green synthesis methods, that depend on different plant components and microorganisms for the production of nanoparticles, is summarized in the current review. Employing these materials minimizes synthesis costs while minimizing the use of hazardous chemicals and promoting “biosynthesis.” To produce metal nanoparticles efficiently, bio-reduction is influenced by the abundance of essential enzymes, proteins, and biomolecules. Rapid biosynthetic regeneration makes this characteristic sufficient for their employment in a range of situations. In this review, we explore the biosynthesis of nanomaterials and their potential in sustainable agriculture. Biosynthesized nanofertilizers, or bionanofertilizers, are a revolutionary new class of fertilizer that has been developed with the help of nanotechnology. These fertilizers offer many advantages over traditional fertilization methods and can be used to increase crop yields while reducing the environmental impact of fertilizers. Bionanofertilizer are an inexpensive way to increase plant growth and production, and to improve the use of nutrients by plants and the health of the soil. According to our survey, nanotechnology presents a wide range of prospects by offering a cutting-edge and environmentally friendly alternative in the agricultural sector.