Molecular and biochemical insights after non-thermal plasma treatment during the germination process in maize grains
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Non-thermal plasma has been identified as a promising tool for the pre-sowing treatment of agriculturally important crops, with a multitude of studies reporting its positive effects on early germination processes. This study investigates the impact of plasma treatment generated by diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) on the initial and post-germination stages in maize grains. The relative expression of key hydrolytic enzymes, namely α-amylase , β-amylase , and zein-degrading protease ( ZDP ) was analysed. The subsequent activity of proteases and α-amylase was observed separately in the embryo, scutellum, and in the starch endosperm. Concurrently, the mobilisation of storage compounds within these tissues was observed. As a result of DCSBD treatment, the efficacy of the decontamination effect of maize grains was demonstrated. Furthermore, the genus of the present microorganism was also detected. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive characterisation of plasma-induced treatment in maize grains during the germination period, with a view to determining, on molecular and biochemical levels, as well as on morphological and surface properties of maize grains.
Source: Scientific Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
OpenAlex ID: W7172532644