Uptake, Translocation, Toxicity, and Impact of Nanoparticles on Plant Physiological Processes

Summary

This narrative review synthesises current understanding of nanoparticle fate and effects in agricultural systems, examining uptake and translocation mechanisms in plants alongside evidence for both positive and negative impacts on physiological processes. The authors highlight that nanoparticle toxicity operates primarily through reactive oxygen species generation and biomolecule damage, with responses highly dependent on nanoparticle physicochemical properties, tissue concentration, and crop species. The review identifies critical knowledge gaps regarding field-level exposure, food chain entry, and ecosystem impacts, calling for integrated multi-omics approaches to understand plant responses.

Regional applicability

The review is a global synthesis with no specific geographic focus. Findings are applicable to United Kingdom agricultural contexts where nanotechnology uptake is increasing, though the authors note that realistic field-level exposure conditions and food chain impacts remain understudied in most jurisdictions.

Key measures

Nanoparticle translocation pathways; reactive oxygen species production; cyto- and geno-toxicity; effects on photosynthesis, growth, primary and secondary metabolism; physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles

Outcomes reported

The review synthesises evidence on nanoparticle uptake mechanisms (apoplast/symplast pathways), translocation patterns, and effects on plant growth, photosynthesis, and primary and secondary metabolism. It identifies reactive oxygen species production and biomolecule damage as primary mechanisms of nanoparticle toxicity, with outcomes varying by nanoparticle type, concentration, crop species, and growth stage.

Topic tags