Open AccessIn vivo biosynthesis and spatial distribution of Ag nanoparticles in maize ( Zea mays L.)
Author(s) -
Tong Xiaoli,
Guo Na,
Dang Zhiyan,
Ren Qingguang,
Shen Hao
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
iet nanobiotechnology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1751-875X
DOI - 10.1049/iet-nbt.2017.0230
Subject(s) - zea mays , nutrient , nanoparticle , chemistry , inductively coupled plasma , silver nanoparticle , nuclear chemistry , nanotechnology , materials science , agronomy , organic chemistry , biology , plasma , physics , quantum mechanics
Nanoparticles (NPs), especially biosynthesised in living plants by absorbing soluble salts and reducing metal ions, are extensively used in various fields. This work aimed at investigating the in vivo biosynthesis of silver NPs (Ag‐NPs) in maize and the spatial distribution of the NPs and some important nutrient elements in the plant. The content of silver in plant was examined by inductively coupled plasma‐atomic emission spectrometer showing that Ag can be absorbed by plant as soluble salts. The NPs in different parts of maize plant were detected and analysed by transmission electron microscopy, demonstrating the synthesis of NPs and their transport from the root to the shoots. Two‐dimensional proton induced X‐ray emission of silver, chlorine and several nutrient elements elucidated the possible relationship between synthesis of NPs and several nutrient elements in plant tissues. To their knowledge, this is the first report of possibility of synthesis of Ag‐NPs in living plants maize ( Zea mays L.). This study presents direct evidence for synthesis of NPs and distribution of related nutrient elements in maize, which has great significance for studying synthetic application of NPs in crop plants.