Toxicity of CuO Nanoparticles to Structure and Metabolic Activity of Allium cepa Root Tips

Roots of Allium cepa were exposed to six CuO NPs suspensions (0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 mg L-1) in this study. Results revealed that with the increase of CuO NPs concentration, the Cu content in roots increased significantly. Compared to control, onion roots treated with CuO NPs (except 5 mg L-1 suspension) grew slowly after 24 h. The surface of the root cap and meristematic zone were obviously damaged. The apical meristem of roots treated by 10 mg L-1 and above concentrations stopped division. The nucleus of meristematic cells deformed, and nucleoli number increased. The plasmolysis occurred, and the cell membrane and nuclear membrane fractured. With the increase of CuO NPs concentration, the MDA content increased, and the root activity decreased. When dealt with 80 mg L-1 CuO NPs for 72 h, onion roots appeared to be corroded.