Foliar application of chitosan nanoparticle improves yield, mineral content and boost innate immunity in finger millet plants

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) in enhancing the growth and yield of finger millet under greenhouse condition. Foliar application of ChNPs significantly enhanced the growth, yield and mineral content (Fe, Zn, Mn, P, Ca, Mg) when compared to the chitosan and untreated control. ChNPs also induced several defense related enzymes (chitinase, beta-1,3 glucanase, chitosanase, protease inhibitors, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase) in leaves of finger millet plants their by enhancing the innate immune response. This quantitative difference in defense enzymes was also detected qualitatively on polyacrylamide gels. Our results suggest that ChNPs application can be used as an ecofriendly approach to enhance yield and mineral content in finger millet for sustainable production.

Automated summary

The study found that the use of Chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) can significantly enhance the growth and yield of finger millet, as well as increase the mineral content in the leaves. ChNPs also enhance the innate immune response in finger millet plants by inducing the activity of defense enzymes.