Nanotechnology: Recent Progress in Agriculture and Effects on Physiology of Plants

Abstract

The naturally occurring and synthesised nanoparticles (NPs) display significant effects on the physiology of plants. This paper emphasised the current application of synthetic NPs in agriculture, several advantages and physiological responses during the growth of plants. Nano pore size of particles provides higher surface areas hence enhances the water holding capacity of the soil, efficacy delivery of fertilisers and pesticides (pest and diseases infestation) on crops. The application of NPs via soil or mist involves uptake by plant via roots or foliar cell wall and translocation to other organs through vascular system and plasmodesmata within the cells. The physicochemical properties of NPs have advantages including enabling the increase of soil water retention in mitigating the drought and/or salinity stresses in plants. Nanoparticles enhance the germination of seed and maintain plant growth by promoting the production of enzymes in scavenging oxygen radicals, phytohormone balancing, nutrient metabolisms and expression of amino acid biosynthetic genes and photosystem. Given the diverse physiological and molecular effects of NPs, precautionary steps prior to their application either as fertiliser or carrier should be considered to avoid toxicity and destructive effects on plants, animals, water body and the environment.