Selenium nanoparticles enhanced growth, antioxidant enzyme activities and mineral absorbability of chrysanthemum plantlets

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the growth, antioxidant activity, and mineral nutrient absorption of chrysanthemum plantlets in vitro. Chrysanthemum plantlets were cultured on media supplemented with varying concentrations of SeNPs (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 1.5, and 3.0 mg/L) and compared to control treatments (C+and C−). Results showed that SeNPs concentrations between 0.3 and 0.7 mg/L significantly enhanced plant growth, including increases in plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, stem diameter, chlorophyll content, fresh weight, and dry weight. At 0.3 mg/L, these growth parameters were at their highest, outperforming both control treatments and other SeNPs concentrations. Additionally, antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD and APX) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging activity) were significantly improved at these concentrations. In contrast, concentrations≥1.5 mg/L resulted in reduced growth, impaired nutrient absorption, and plant toxicity, with 3.0 mg/L leading to marked growth inhibition and necrosis. Analysis of mineral content revealed that SeNPs at 0.3 mg/L maximized the absorption of essential macronutrients and micronutrients, while higher concentrations led to a decline in mineral uptake. These findings suggest that SeNPs have a concentration-dependent effect on chrysanthemum plant growth and nutrient absorption, with low to moderate concentrations offering beneficial effects, while high concentrations may induce toxicity. This study underscores the potential of SeNPs for improving plant growth and nutrient assimilation in micropropagation, provided the optimal concentration is carefully determined to avoid toxicity