Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Show Promise in Alleviating Arsenic Toxicity in Wheat

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Research conducted by Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, Pakistan, has found that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) can alleviate arsenic toxicity in wheat varieties. According to the study, biogenic ZnO-NPs were found to be less toxic and more effective in alleviating arsenic stress in both wheat varieties, BARANI-70 and NARC-2009, compared to chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Biogenic ZnO-NPs at 100 mg/L were found to be less toxic and more effective in alleviating arsenic stress in both wheat varieties.
  • Chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs at 100 mg/L reduced oxidative stress markers, but increased oxidative stress in both varieties at 200 mg/L.
  • Biogenic ZnO-NPs restored normal root anatomy in both varieties and achieved balanced zinc levels, reducing arsenic accumulation.
  • The study found that biogenic ZnO-NPs had lower antioxidant activities and metabolites compared to chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs.
  • The research concluded that biogenic ZnO-NPs are a more effective and less toxic option for alleviating arsenic toxicity in wheat.
  • The study used a hydroponic experiment to assess the effects of ZnO-NPs on wheat varieties under arsenate stress.
  • Histological analyses were performed to assess the role of ZnO-NPs in alleviating arsenic stress at the cellular level.
  • The study examined the activities of antioxidant enzymes and secondary metabolites in alleviating arsenic-induced oxidative stress by ZnO-NPs.

Statistics:

  • 100 mg/L biogenic ZnO-NPs reduced oxidative stress in roots and shoots of both wheat varieties.
  • 200 mg/L chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs increased oxidative stress in both varieties.
  • Biogenic ZnO-NPs at 100 mg/L restored normal root anatomy in both varieties.
  • Chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs at 100 mg/L increased zinc accumulation and reduced arsenic in shoots and roots.
  • Biogenic ZnO-NPs achieved balanced zinc levels, reducing arsenic accumulation.
  • The study used a hydroponic experiment that lasted 28-30 days.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. New Nanoparticles Findings from Quaid-i-Azam University Discussed [Unraveling the Potential of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles On Alleviating Arsenic Toxicity In Wheat ( triticum Aestivum L. ) Varieties: a Comparative Assessment of Histology and ...]. Health & Medicine Week. June 13, 2025; p 3539.
  • Unraveling the Potential of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles On Alleviating Arsenic Toxicity In Wheat (triticum Aestivum L.) Varieties: a Comparative Assessment of Histology and Phenomics. Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants, 2025.