Quantum Dot Interactions in Plant Systems
Summary
Quantum dots are nanometre-scale semiconductor crystals whose unique optical and electronic characteristics have spurred investigation into their interactions with plants. Upon exposure, quantum dots can be absorbed through roots or leaves, translocated via vascular bundles and accumulated in cellular compartments. Such uptake may influence growth and development by modulating photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzyme activity and stress-response pathways. At low concentrations, surface-modified quantum dots have been explored as probes for in vivo imaging of stem cells, as carriers for targeted delivery and as tools to monitor physiological processes. Conversely, uncoated or heavy-metal-based quantum dots can induce phytotoxicity through generation of reactive oxygen species, disruption of membrane integrity and interference with gene expression. Understanding these dual facets is essential for harnessing quantum dots in agriculture while safeguarding plant health and ecosystem integrity.
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Quantum Dot Interactions in Plant Systems publication trend
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Technical terms
Quantum dot: Nanoscale semiconductor particle that exhibits size-dependent optical and electronic properties.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Highly reactive molecules derived from oxygen, capable of damaging lipids, proteins and nucleic acids.
Foliar spraying: Application of liquid formulations directly onto plant leaves to deliver nutrients, nanoparticles or agrochemicals.
Vascular bundle: Transport tissue in plants comprising xylem and phloem, responsible for longitudinal movement of water, solutes and nanoscale materials.
Proteomics: Large-scale study of protein expression, structure and interactions within a biological system.
References
- Unique properties of titanium dioxide quantum dots assisted regulation of growth and biochemical parameters of Hibiscus sabdariffa plants. BMC Plant Biology (2024).
- CdTe-QDs Affect Reproductive Development of Plants through Oxidative Stress. Toxics (2023).
- Comparative Analysis of Proteins Regulated during Cadmium Sulfide Quantum Dots Response in Arabidopsis thaliana Wild Type and Tolerant Mutants. Nanomaterials (2021).
- CLAVATA3 Dodecapeptide Modified CdTe Nanoparticles: A Biocompatible Quantum Dot Probe for In Vivo Labeling of Plant Stem Cells. PLOS ONE (2014).
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