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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Enhancement of growth and biochemical responses of in vitro raised Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czernj. Cosson) seedlings via silica (SiO₂) nano-priming
Authors
Pratibha Dwivedi, Vitthal Chhipa, Shamshadul Haq, Ashutosh Pathakand, Sumita Kachhwaha
Abstract
Nanoparticle (NPs) based seed-priming enhances
plant growth by modulating key metabolic pathways, improving physiological
performance and crop productivity.Silicon-based nano-priming has emerged as a
promising strategy to enhance early crop establishment through modulation of
growth and antioxidant defense mechanisms. This study assessed
concentration-dependent effects of SiO₂ NP seed-priming (25-100 mg L-1)
on germination, growth, photosynthetic pigments, secondary-metabolites, and
antioxidant defense in in-vitro cultured Brassica juncea
seedlings grown on half-strength MS-medium. SiO₂ NP-priming significantly
enhanced germination percentage, seedling vigor index (SVI), elongation,
growth, biomass, and tissue moisture content, with 100 mg L-1emerging
as the most effective concentration. Shoot and root lengths were maximized at
50-100mg L-1, while fresh-dry biomass and moisture content peaked at
100 mg L-1, indicating improved assimilate production and water relations.
Photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and
carotenoids) were markedly enhanced at 75-100 mg L-1, reflecting
improved chloroplast development and photosynthetic efficiency. Secondary
metabolites, including total phenolics and flavonoids, along with DPPH radical
scavenging activity, increased progressively at higher concentrations,
suggesting stimulation of non-enzymatic antioxidant systems. Enzymatic
antioxidants (SOD, CAT, and GPX) exhibited strong up-regulation, particularly
at 100 mg L-1, indicating enhanced reactive oxygen species
detoxification and redox-homeostasis. In contrast, 25 mg L-1
appeared sub-optimal, resulting in comparatively reduced physiological and
biochemical responses. Overall, SiO₂ NP priming at 75-100 mg L-1
significantly improved growth-dynamics, photosynthetic capacity, secondary
metabolism, and antioxidant defense, proving its potential as a sustainable approach
to strengthen early seedling establishment and physiological resilience in
Indian mustard.
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Pages:335-343
How to cite this article:
Pratibha Dwivedi, Vitthal Chhipa, Shamshadul Haq, Ashutosh Pathakand, Sumita Kachhwaha "Enhancement of growth and biochemical responses of <i>in vitro</i> raised Indian mustard (<i>Brassica juncea </i>L. Czernj. Cosson) seedlings via silica (SiO₂) nano-priming". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 335-343
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