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PHYSIOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL RESPONSES TO THE EXOGENOUS ADMINISTRATION OF PHOTOSYNTHESIZED CERIUM, IRON AND CERIUM/IRON NANOPARTICLES TO REDUCE SALT STRESS IN ZEA MAYS L.
Abstract
Green synthesis refers to the production of NPs using environmentally friendly protocols that are energy-efficient, use renewable inputs, and exclude toxic reagents. In the present study, cerium oxide (CeO₂), ferrous oxide (Fe2O3), and composite CeO₂/Fe2O3 NPs were synthesized using Psidium guajava leaf extract, and their effect on the morphology, photosynthetic performance, and antioxidant profiles of maize (Zea mays L.) under normal condition and salt stress, were evaluated. The successful formation of nanoparticles was confirmed by XRD, and average crystallite dimensions were calculated using the Debye–Scherrer equation (18.22 nm for CeO₂, 19.20 nm for Fe2O3, and 19.13 nm for the composite NPs). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) also supported the involvement of natural compounds in the reaction, showing stretching frequencies at 524 cm⁻¹ and 613 cm⁻¹ for Ce–O and Fe–O bonds, respectively. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) revealed that the particles were polydisperse and had spherical and irregular geometries. The synthesized NPs were then foliar-applied to maize plants at a concentration of 10mM. The findings showed that all NP concentrations improved maize growth, photosynthetic efficiency, protein, carbohydrates, phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the NPs controlled the equilibrium between the cell's oxidation and reduction (redox) processes; by preventing damage, maintaining normal metabolism, and regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, it aids in the maintenance of cellular function. Notably, the most successful in raising these parameters was the CeO2/ Fe2O3 NPs have the potential to be a sustainable substitute for conventional fertilizers, supporting more environmentally friendly farming methods. This groundbreaking study represents a major breakthrough in agricultural nanotechnology by demonstrating the potential of biogenically produced CeO2/Fe2O3 NPs to improve crop performance under normal and salinity stress.
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