Ecofriendly Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Their Effects on Early Growth and Cell Division in Roots of Green Pea (Pisum sativum L.)

Abstract

The present study deals with the eco-synthesis and effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on pea (Pisum sativum L.). AgNPs were synthesized by using gelatine/glucose mixture as a reducing/stabilizing agent for silver nitrate. The AgNPs were characterized and their effects on early growth and cytotoxicity on cell division and chromosomes have been studied. Seeds of Pisum sativum cv. Master B were soaked in AgNPs solutions at concentrations of 20, 40, 80 and 160 mg/L for two hours, control seeds were simultaneously soaked in distilled water. Seeds were then germinated on filter papers moistened with the above concentrations. Seed germination was gradually enhanced at lower concentrations of AgNPs (20 and 40 mg/L) and decreased at higher concentrations (80 and 160 mg/L) compared to control. Seedling growth parameters except root length were all reduced. Deformation of root shape (twisted, folded and hocked roots) was induced upon exposure to AgNPs. Cytologically, mitotic index declined, and chromosomal abnormalities raised as the concentration of AgNPs increased. Observed abnormalities comprised disturbed mitotic phases and cladistic aberrations such as chromosome bridges, rings, breaks, and micronuclei indicating a genotoxic potential for the AgNPs at high concentrations.