Role of mesoporous silica nanoparticles in combating mercury-induced stress in Vigna radiata (mung bean) and Bacillus coagulans (soil bacteria)

The last few decades have witnessed a dramatic progress of human civilization via industrialization, which, in turn, is associated with a surge in pollution of the environment. Heavy metals being one of the most hazardous pollutants have posed a serious threat to life sustaining ecosystem. Among the various remediation techniques, presently, the use of nanoparticles as adsorbents and chelator of heavy metal ions has emerged being practical and cost effective. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles, due to its unique structural attributes, have found application in adsorption of heavy metals in solutions. This study encompasses elucidation of the role of mesoporous silica nanoparticles MCM 41 and MCM 48 in mitigating stress caused by toxic dose of heavy metal Hg2+ (25 ppm) on growing seedlings of Vigna radiata and probiotic soil bacteria Bacillus coagulans. The results revealed that application of the nanoparticles at specific concentration can stimulate an increase in growth of plantlets, decrease in the yield reactive oxygen species like superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide, reduction of lipid peroxidation, increase in antioxidant enzyme activity in Vigna radiata, and enhancement of growth of Bacillus coagulans as compared to that of Hg2+ alone. Moreover, it was found that MCM 41 was effective at higher dosages compared to MCM 48, which indicates the structure to function relationship.

Automated summary

The progress of human civilization through industrialization has led to environmental pollution, with heavy metals being one of the most hazardous pollutants. The use of nanoparticles as adsorbents and chelators has emerged as a practical and cost-effective remediation technique. This study investigates the role of mesoporous silica nanoparticles in mitigating the stress of heavy metal toxicity on plant growth and soil bacteria. The results show that the application of specific concentrations of nanoparticles can stimulate plant growth, reduce reactive oxygen species, decrease lipid peroxidation, and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity. Furthermore, the effectiveness of different types of nanoparticles varies, indicating the importance of structure-function relationship.