Nanosilica: Synthesis and its impact on Plant Nutrition and Stress Management
摘要
Plants endure several biotic and abiotic challenges as a result of global warming and climate change, which limits their growth and development. The use of nanomaterials are becoming increasingly important in mitigating these abiotic and biotic stresses in plants. Silicon (Si), one of nature's most useful metalloids, has a positive influence on environmental concerns due to its remarkable chemical and optoelectronic properties. Recently, nanosilica has attracted the scientific community due to its fascinating role in mitigating environmental stresses. Nanosilica can be synthesized through various chemical, green and biological protocols and supplied to plants through soil application, foliar spraying and seed priming. It’s unique physical and chemical properties allowing to penetrate plants and regulate many metabolic activities which finally results in better crop growth and development besides mitigating biotic and abiotic stresses. The major points discussed in the review are listed as following: (1) Nanosilica can be synthesized by using chemical, green and microbial approaches, while green and microbial synthesis methods were ecologically and environmentally sustainable. (2) Nanosilica induce plant resistance against stress factors by strengthening the physical barrier, improving plant photosynthesis, activating defensive enzyme activity, increasing anti-stress compounds and activating the expression of defense-related genes. (3) This article aims to provide a comprehensive and meticulous overview of nanosilica synthesis and their role in enhancing plant growth and mitigating challenges from biotic and abiotic factors. Additionally, the article highlights gaps in current knowledge regarding nanosilica interactions with plants, which can guide future research in this rapidly advancing field.