Evaluation of stress effects of copper oxide nanoparticles in Brassica napus L. seedlings

Prakash M Gopalakrishnan Nair,Ill Min Chung

doi:10.1007/s13205-017-0929-9

Abstract

Rapid growth of nanotechnology has enabled the production and use of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in several industries as well as in agriculture areas. This has raised ecotoxicological concerns due to the release of ENPs to the environment. In the present study, we investigated the effects of interactions of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) on physiological, biochemical, and molecular indices in seedlings of an important oil seed crop Brassica napus L. The seedlings were treated with 0, 20, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 500 mg/L of CuO NPs for 14 days in half-strength semi-solid Murashige and Skoog medium. The CuO NPs treatment significantly reduced shoot and root growth as well as plant biomass. Shortening and thickening of primary and lateral roots and inhibition of lateral root growth was observed at higher concentrations. An increase in reactive oxygen species generation, and malondialdehyde accumulation was observed. Histochemical staining of roots with propidium iodide and aniline blue indicated cell death and callose formation in roots. Transcriptional modulation of genes related to oxidative stress viz. CuZn superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase was observed. Element content analysis showed an increase in Cu content and decrease in Fe, Mn, and Zn contents. Overall, exposure to CuO NPs caused oxidative injury, cell death, callose formation, and decreased the micro nutrient contents in B. napus seedlings.

Highlights

The rapid growth of nanotechnology enhanced the use of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in various products
We investigated the effects of interactions of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) on physiological, biochemical, and molecular indices in seedlings of an important oil seed crop Brassica napus L
Callose formation in roots was determined by treating with aniline blue for 1 h under dark conditions (Horst et al 1997)

Summary

Introduction

The rapid growth of nanotechnology enhanced the use of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in various products. This has raised concerns about the release of ENPs from these products, thereby causing concerns due to the possibility of contamination of natural as well as agricultural ecosystems (Navarro et al 2008). The direct application of sewage sludge in agricultural soils for nutrient supply may be contaminated with ENPs (Gardea-Torresdey et al 2014). This will result in the accumulation of ENPs in agricultural soils as well as their entry into plants. The ENPs can enter into food chains as a result of their widespread use for delivery of fertilizers and nanopesticides (Das et al 2009; Wang et al 2012)

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion