Zinc bionanocrystals enhance germination seedling vigor and metabolic activity in pearl millet seedlings
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates the effect of seed priming with zinc bionanocrystals on germination and early seedling vigor in Pennisetum glaucum (pearl millet). Zn-bionanocrystals were synthesized using the ionotropic gelation method, yielding particles with a size of ~ 374–396 nm, a zeta potential of + 39.7 to + 44.6 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 84%. Priming with Zn-bionanocrystals (200–1000 ppm) significantly improved physiological and biochemical parameters, with 600 ppm identified as the optimal concentration. At this concentration, shoot and root lengths increased by 38% and 37%, respectively, compared to the control, resulting in a maximum seedling length of 31.2 cm. Germination frequency reached 92.5%, while seed vigor indices (SVI-I and SVI-II) increased by 44% and 46%, respectively. Enhanced metabolic activity was evidenced by a 1.8-fold increase in starch degradation rate and a 4.5-fold increase in α-amylase activity by day 5 post-germination. Protease activity increased 16.2-fold, accompanied by a 31% reduction in soluble protein content, indicating accelerated reserve mobilization. In addition, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents increased by 75%, suggesting improved photosynthetic potential. Overall, Zn-bionanocrystal priming enhanced germination performance, metabolic activity, and seedling vigor. These findings highlight the potential of Zn-bionanocrystals as an efficient seed priming agent for improving early-stage crop performance and provide a basis for their application in sustainable agriculture.
Source: Discover Plants.
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7164890647