Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Role of Silver Nanoparticles in Promoting Maize Germination

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Nanotechnology
• Plant Physiology

Background:

• Seed aging negatively impacts maize germination, seedling growth, and crop productivity.
• Developing effective seed priming agents is crucial for enhancing seed quality and agricultural output.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a seed priming agent for maize inbred lines with varying aging tolerance.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying AgNP-mediated seed vigor enhancement in maize.

Main Methods:

• Maize inbred lines (aging-sensitive I178, aging-tolerant X178) were treated with AgNPs and water.
• Germination rates, root length, and shoot length were measured.
• Transcriptomic analysis (RNA sequencing) was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs).

Main Results:

• AgNP treatment significantly improved germination (55% to 85%) and seedling growth in aging-sensitive I178.
• Aging-tolerant X178 showed no significant response to AgNP treatment.
• Transcriptomic analysis revealed DEGs in I178 related to metabolic processes, stress response, and membrane repair, indicating enhanced stability and tolerance.

Conclusions:

• Silver nanoparticles effectively enhance seed vigor and mitigate aging effects in sensitive maize lines.
• AgNP-mediated improvements are linked to the regulation of gene expression involved in stress response, metabolic repair, and membrane stability.
• This research offers insights into AgNP applications for improving agricultural seed quality.