Role of nanoparticles in plants

Abstract

Nanotechnology opens a large scope of novel application in the fields of biotechnology and agricultural industries, because nanoparticles (NPs) have unique physicochemical properties, i.e., high surface area, high reactivity, tunable pore size, and particle morphology. Nanoparticles can serve as “magic bullets”, containing herbicides, nano-pesticide fertilizers, or genes, which target specific cellular organelles in plant to release their content. Despite the plenty of information available on the toxicity of nanoparticles to plant system, few studies have been conducted on mechanisms, by which nanoparticles exert their effect on plant growth and development. Therefore, the present review highlights the key role of nanoparticles in plants. Moreover, nanoscience contributes new ideas leading us to understand the suitable mode of action of nanoparticles in plants. The appropriate elucidation of physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanism of nanoparticles in plant leads to better plant growth and development.