Nanopriming with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Enhances Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Sunflower Seeds

TL;DR

Nanopriming sunflower seeds with carbon nanotubes improves their ability to withstand stress, but higher doses can be harmful.

Contribution

This study demonstrates the novel use of multi-walled carbon nanotubes to enhance abiotic stress tolerance in sunflower seeds.

Findings

Nanopriming with 200 mg·L−1 MWCNTs improved germination and seedling growth.

Lower MWCNT concentrations reduced oxidative damage under stress conditions.

Higher MWCNT doses increased reactive oxygen species, indicating potential toxicity.

Abstract

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a crop with ornamental and energetic potential, but its propagation is challenged by abiotic stresses such as salinity and water deficit. Ensuring high-quality propagation materials is crucial for healthy plant development. Nanotechnology offers innovative tools to enhance seed performance, stress tolerance, and production efficiency. Among these, carbon nanotubes, a strong, conductive, and thermally resistant material, have shown promise in improving seed quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nanopriming with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the physiological and biochemical performance of sunflower seeds under accelerated aging and stress conditions. Seeds were treated with 100, 200, or 400 mg·L−1 MWCNTs, and parameters such as germination percentage, seedling growth, pigment profile, and oxidative stress indicators were analyzed. The 200 mg·L−1 concentration enhanced germination, root and shoot development, and antioxidant enzyme modulation, while the 400 mg·L−1 dose increased reactive oxygen species, indicating toxicity. Under saline and drought-like conditions, nanopriming with 100–200 mg·L−1 mitigated oxidative damage more effectively than hydropriming. MWCNTs also influenced pigment synthesis, affecting chlorophyll and carotenoid levels. These findings support the potential of carbon nanotube-based nanopriming to improve seed vigor and stress tolerance in sunflower cultivation, though further environmental safety assessments are required.

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