Integrating cutting-edge plasma technology for environmentally friendly smart horticulture: A proteomics approach

Abstract

In recent years, nonthermal plasma has emerged as an alternative to the harmful fertilizers that degrade the environment and are major concerns for sustainable agriculture. Plasma treatment has been shown to induce growth in agricultural plants. However, its effect on horticultural plants has not been analyzed yet. Moreover, the mechanism behind plasma-induced plant growth is poorly understood, especially at the protein level. This systematic research uses a nonthermal, dielectric barrier discharge plasma system for environmentally friendly seed germination and growth enhancement in a horticultural crop, Tagetus erecta (African Marigold). Analysis of physiological parameters showed beneficial effects of plasma treatment on T. erecta growth. Label-free quantitative proteome analysis identified 2517 unique protein groups, of which the abundance of 491 proteins was modulated by plasma treatment. Functional annotation of the identified proteins indicated an improved abundance of proteins associated with photosynthesis, energy metabolism, and ROS homeostasis in response to plasma treatment. Our study undoubtedly signifies that plasma is a more sustainable, promising, cost-effective, and advantageous tool that can be expanded as a powerful and effective means for plant growth and aesthetic horticulture production.