Nano-priming of Phaseolus vulgaris OTI cultivar with cobalt ferrite nanoparticles enhances the mineral composition of progeny seeds

Summary

This 2024 field trial investigated seed priming with citrate-coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe₂O₄) as a micronutrient biofortification strategy for common bean. Whilst nano-priming had no effect on germination or plant nutrition during flowering, progeny seeds from treated plots showed significant increases in potassium (up to 16%) and zinc (up to 27%) concentration depending on nanoparticle dose, with estimated application costs of USD 121–143 per hectare. The authors suggest nano-priming could offer a cost-effective approach to enhance seed mineral density, though agronomic scalability and food-system safety remain areas requiring further investigation.

Regional applicability

This study was conducted in Mexico and demonstrates a proof-of-concept for nanoparticle-mediated seed biofortification in common bean, a crop of global importance. The findings may be transferable to United Kingdom and European horticulture systems where common bean is grown as a minor or specialty crop; however, regulatory approval of engineered nanoparticles in food production remains uncertain in the UK and EU, and climate/soil differences may affect reproducibility.

Key measures

Potassium (K) concentration in progeny seeds (% increase relative to control); zinc (Zn) concentration in progeny seeds (% increase); nitrogenase activity (µmol h−1 plant−1 of C2H4); germination rate; plant nutrition at flowering stage; cost per hectare (USD)

Outcomes reported

The study evaluated the effects of cobalt ferrite nanoparticle seed priming on germination, plant development, and mineral composition in progeny seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris OTI cultivar. Key measured outcomes included potassium and zinc concentrations in harvested seeds, nitrogenase activity, and cost-effectiveness of the nano-priming technology.

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