Seed germination and biochemical profile of Silybum marianum exposed to monometallic and bimetallic alloy nanoparticles.

In recent years nanotechnology has become increasingly important in almost every field. The new and improved physical, chemical and biological properties of material at nanoscale have far reaching implications in the fields of science and technology. Nanoparticles' effect on various plant species must be investigated to develop a comprehensive toxicity profile for nanoparticles. The current study strives to evaluate the effects of nine types of metal nanoparticles including monometallic and bimetallic alloy nanoparticles [Ag, Au, Cu, AgCu (1:3), AgCu (3:1), AuCu (1:3), AuCu (3:1), AgAu (1:3), AgAu (3:1)] on seed germination, root and shoot growth and biochemical profile of Silybum marianum plant. Seed germination was greatly affected and increased significantly upon treatment with nanoparticles' suspensions and was recorded highest for Ag nanoparticle suspension. Metal nanoparticles also had a significant effect on the biochemical profile of S. marianum. For the first week, the effect on DPPH, total phenolics content, total flavonoids content, total protein content, peroxidase activity and superoxide dismutase activity was enhanced, but declined as the time progressed. Among the nanoparticles being used, the effect of Ag nanoparticle was mostly enhancing. The results obtained are significant in mapping the effects of different monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles on medicinal plant species.