Maghemite nano-fertilization promotes fluoride tolerance in rice by restoring grain yield and modulating the ionome...

The present manuscript elucidated the ameliorative potential of nano-maghemite (FeNPs) against the hazardous effects of fluoride toxicity in the sensitive rice cultivar, IR-64. Fluoride pollution triggered bioaccumulation in root, shoot and spikelets which inhibited reproduction, agronomic development and mineral uptake. Suppressed activity of enzymatic antioxidants and excessive cobalt translocation manifested severe ROS-induced oxidative injuries. Seedling priming with FeNPs reduced fluoride bioaccumulation and promoted efficient uptake of macroelements and micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, nickel, manganese, selenium and vanadium and reduced the translocation of cobalt in mature seedlings during stress. This altogether triggered growth and activated the enzymes like SOD, CAT, APX and GPOX. High accumulation of non-enzymatic antioxidants like proline, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolics along with stimulated GSH synthesis (determined from high GR, GST and GPX activity) and glyoxalase activity enabled FeNP-pulsed plants to efficiently scavenge ROS, O₂^-, H₂O₂ and methylglyoxal, and mitigate oxidative injuries. The ROS production was also lowered due to suppressed NADPH oxidase activity. This ensured subsequent revitalization of Hill activity and the level of photosynthetic pigments. Due to reduced fluoride partitioning and improved nutritional sink, the grain and panicle development in FeNP-primed, stressed seedlings were more stimulated than even control sets. Overall, our findings supported by statistical modelling established the potential of iron-nanotechnology in promoting safe rice cultivation even in fluoride-polluted environments.