Mitigating Pb-induced oxidative stress in rice plants by cerium oxide and iron oxide nanoparticles

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Nanotechnology offers creative and effective solutions for addressing various environmental issues, such as heavy metals (HM). The rapidly increasing HM concentrations in agricultural land have drawn considerable attention. Nanoparticles (NPs) have special physiochemical features that help reduce stress. This study assessed the viability of applying CeO2NPs and FeONPs to rice plants at a concentration of 25 mg/L to effectively remove the detrimental effects of lead (Pb) by using various concentrations (100 and 200 ppm) on plant development and growth. To achieve the desired concentrations, a Pb solution was prepared by dissolving lead nitrate in distilled water and added to the soil. Interestingly, the application of CeO2NPs and FeONPs resulted in a notable increase in plant growth, biomass, gas exchange characteristics, antioxidant enzymatic activity (SOD, POD, APX, and CAT), their gene expressions, as well as other antioxidants (phenols, prolines, amino acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acids) while simultaneously reducing oxidative stress (MDA, H2O2, and electrolyte leakage) and Pb uptake in rice. Conversely, Pb elevation in the soil increased oxidative damage and organic acid exudation pattern in the rice. At 200 ppm, a significant rise in Pb content (416.67 % and 380 %) was found in the roots and leaves of rice plants. According to our findings, rice growth can be bio-stimulated by CeO2NPs and FeONPs. Subsequent investigations should focus on the persistent ecological consequences and molecular mechanisms associated with the application of cerium oxide and iron oxide nanoparticles in agriculture to reduce Pb-induced oxidative stress.