Influence of silver nanoparticles on seedlings of Vigna radiata ( L . ) R . Wilczek

Nanoparticles(NPs), especially the engineered ones have many applications in the fields of pharmaceuticals, consumer products, cosmetics, transportation, energy and agriculture, thus, have an impact on many sectors of economy. In spite of this positive influence of the nanotechnology, the effect of release of nanoparticles into the environment is not clearly understood, especially, the potential health and environmental risks associated with them. Also, there are few studies available on the general consequences of the interactions of nanoparticles with higher plants. The present investigation was carried out to determine the effect of silver nanoparticles on different parameters such as seed germination and seedling biology of Vigna radiata (mung bean), belonging to Fabaceae, an economically important leguminous plant. Seeds of V. radiata were cultured under in vitro conditions on MS nutrient medium (Murashige and Skoog’s medium, strength 1/20) fortified with filter sterilized silver nanoparticles at concentrations of 10 ppm (parts per million), 20 ppm, 50 ppm and 100 ppm. MS medium without nanoparticles served as the control. Addition of silver nanoparticles at a concentration of 10 ppm enhanced percent seed germination in comparison to the basal medium. Also, the shoots and roots of the seedlings raised attained maximum average length on this level of silver nanoparticles tried as compared to the control. The response obtained on other concentrations tried was less. These preliminary observations suggest that nanoparticles at a low level may promote seedling growth in the selected plants. If such positive observations are made with other plants as well, the results can be used for increasing the crop productivity.