Copper oxide nanoparticles biosynthetized improve germination and bioactive compounds in wheat sprouts

Abstract

Metal nanoparticles have many positive effects in improving crop production and productivity and allow for increased germination and rapid crop establishment under field conditions. The metallic nanoparticles applied in this study were copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) biosynthesized using orange peel (Citrus X sinensis) as a reducing agent to avoid or reduce toxicity in wheat seeds and sprouts. This study determined the effect of CuONPs on germination, radicle and plumule length, as well as the production of phytochemical compounds in wheat sprouts. The seeds were treated with suspensions of CuONPs at the following concentrations: 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6 mg mL-1. The results indicate that the use of low doses of CuONPs (0.5 mg mL-1), improved germination, vigor, plumule and radicle length, in addition to increasing the biosynthesis of phytochemical compounds in wheat shoots. A high concentration of CuONPs (6 mg mL-1) causes inhibitory effects due to Cu accumulation and phytotoxicity in plant tissue. The use of CuONPs for green synthesis is a viable alternative to obtain beneficial effects in germination and seedling development, as well as greater secondary metabolite production.