Silver Nanoparticle Effects on Plant Growth and Metabolism

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly applied in agriculture and horticulture for their antimicrobial properties and potential to enhance crop performance. Upon exposure, plants may absorb AgNPs through roots or leaves, leading to translocation via vascular tissues and accumulation in organs. At low concentrations, AgNPs can stimulate seed germination, root elongation and biomass production by modulating hormone signalling, nutrient uptake and symbiotic interactions with mycorrhizal fungi. At higher doses, however, they may generate oxidative stress, disrupt cellular homeostasis and impair photosynthetic machinery. Metabolic effects include alterations in antioxidant enzyme activities, shifts in secondary metabolite profiles and modification of cell‐wall composition. The dualistic nature of AgNPs underlines their potential as nanofertilisers or biostimulants, while emphasising the need for precise dosing, species‐specific assessment and understanding of long‐term ecological impacts.

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Silver Nanoparticle Effects on Plant Growth and Metabolism publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in silver nanoparticle effects on plant growth and metabolism across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs): Colloidal particles of metallic silver with dimensions typically between 1 and 100 nanometres, known for antimicrobial activity and unique surface reactivity.

Phytotoxicity: Adverse effects of a substance on plant growth and development, manifesting as inhibited germination, stunted growth or cellular damage.

Oxidative stress: Imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defences, leading to damage of lipids, proteins and nucleic acids.

Photosynthetic pigments: Molecules such as chlorophylls and carotenoids that capture light energy and play key roles in energy transfer and photoprotection.

Mycorrhizal colonization: Symbiotic association between plant roots and fungi that enhances nutrient uptake, water relations and stress resilience.

References

1. Effects of silver nanoparticles on seed germination and growth performance of pea (Pisum sativum). Plant Nano Biology (2023).
2. Nanomaterials: Cross-disciplinary applications in ornamental plants. Nanotechnology Reviews (2024).
3. Impacts of Silver Nanoparticles on Plants: A Focus on the Phytotoxicity and Underlying Mechanism. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2019).
4. Uptake, Accumulation and Toxicity of Silver Nanoparticle in Autotrophic Plants, and Heterotrophic Microbes: A Concentric Review. Frontiers in Microbiology (2017).