In a groundbreaking study published in the journal ‘Plants’, researchers have uncovered significant sex-related differences in the physiological and biochemical responses of black poplar (*Populus nigra*) to exposure with bifunctionalized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silver ions. The research, led by Valentina Iori from the Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology-National Research Council (IBBA-CNR) in Rome, Italy, sheds light on the understudied area of sexual dimorphism in dioecious woody plants, offering critical insights for sustainable resource management in agriculture.
The study focused on assessing the impact of AgNPs stabilized with citrate (Cit) and glutathione (GSH), compared to silver ions supplied as AgNO₃, on male and female clones of black poplar. Key parameters of oxidative stress were measured to evaluate the differential responses. The findings revealed that exposure to nanosilver resulted in lower silver accumulation and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in both genders compared to AgNO₃ treatment.
Valentina Iori, the lead author, emphasized the importance of these findings: “Understanding how male and female plants respond differently to nanomaterials is crucial for developing targeted agricultural strategies. This research provides a foundation for more effective and sustainable use of nanomaterials in agriculture.”
The female clone exhibited a dose-dependent response, with an increase in dry weight (DW) and a reduction in nutrient uptake, protein content, and ATPase activity. Notably, there was an upregulation of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity compared to the control. In contrast, the male clone showed a specific treatment response, with a decrease in DW, water content, and nutrient uptake, accompanied by an increase in protein content and GST activity when exposed to AgNPs-cit-GSH.
For male cells treated with AgNO₃, the increase in silver content and MDA levels corresponded to a decrease in DW and an increase in protein, copper, and calcium content. These findings highlight the complex interplay between sex-specific responses and nanomaterial exposure, which could have significant implications for agricultural practices.
The commercial impact of this research is substantial. As the use of nanomaterials in agriculture continues to grow, understanding how different plant genders respond to these materials can lead to more efficient and sustainable farming practices. By tailoring nanomaterial applications to the specific needs of male and female plants, farmers can enhance crop productivity and resource management.
“This study opens up new avenues for research and application in the field of agritech,” said Iori. “It underscores the need for further investigation into sexual dimorphism in plants and how it can be leveraged for better agricultural outcomes.”
The research published in ‘Plants’ by lead author Valentina Iori from the Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology-National Research Council (IBBA-CNR) in Rome, Italy, marks a significant step forward in understanding the intricate relationships between plant biology and nanomaterial exposure. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, these insights will be invaluable in shaping future developments and ensuring sustainable resource management.