Nanotoxicity: Generation of reactive oxygen species in plants

Abstract

Nanotechnology is most fascinating field in the modern scientific society, which plays multifunctional roles in different dimensions. Particles having size between 1 nm and 100 nm are called nanoparticles (NPs). NPs contain remarkable physical and chemical characteristics that enable them to perform variety of functions. The structural alteration of NPs (particle dimension, size, surface area, composition, and chemical properties) leads to malfunctioning in biological system resulting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants. In plants, ROS is defined as a “double-edged sword” due to its nature of reacting with the number of biomolecules causing an irreversible damage which leads cell death. The toxicity of NPs is one of the most important factors causing imbalance in the generation of ROS in plants. On the other hand, balance formation of ROS in plants has huge potential to ameliorate abiotic stress and enhanced crop productivity. This review has covered the phytotoxicity induced by NPs in the form of ROS and its role. Biostimulant for regulation of ROS under abiotic stress has also been discussed briefly.