Nanotechnology Enabled Advancements in Plant Breeding

Author: Duluri Soumya, Delvadiya I.R., Murakonda Sai Dinesh and Ginoya A.V.

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Abstract

Nanotechnology consists of basic nanoparticles with small size to large surface area (1–100 nm) that have several potential functions. In a recent hybrid field known as nanobiotechnology, elements of both nanotechnology and biotechnology are combined, and it uses nanoparticles as basic tools for manipulation of plants and nanomaterials serve as carriers for genes and chemicals that activate gene expression and regulate genetic material inside plants, and there is a great deal of promise and depth to this technology's future advancement. Nanotechnology in plant breeding has potential but faces challenges. The long-term effects of nanoparticles on plants and the environment are unknown, requiring research for safety. Scalability and cost-effectiveness limit adoption, while ethical and regulatory concerns surround GMOs and gene introduction. Careful evaluation and regulation are needed for responsible and sustainable use. Through nanoparticles as a treatment, seeds can speed up germination, increases seedling strength, vigour and improve seed quality. The application of nanotechnology in plant breeding comprehends; disease and vermin control, seed technology, plant genetic modification, monitoring of plant growth stages, incitement of hormonal impacts, and precise farming. Nanotechnology also aids in the improvement of crop output in agriculture by reducing input losses and ensuring efficient nutrient and water management. Another breakthrough in nanotechnology for agricultural production improvement is the development of cultivars resistant to various insects through DNA transfer method in plants or nanoparticle-mediated gene transfer, respectively. Furthermore, this review examines several nanotechnological approaches in plant breeding and tissue culture, focusing on their current application and scanning the opportunities, potential benefits, and associated risks.

Keywords

Nanotechnology, Agriculture, Plant Breeding, Crop Improvement, Nanoparticles, Nano priming

Conclusion

The application of nanotechnology in plant breeding holds great promise and has the potential to dramatically improve crop growth, output, and quality. Nano-derived devices (nano-sensors, nanoparticles) are widely used in plant breeding and genetic transformation of crops to develop improved varieties through appropriate breeding programs However, there are still obstacles to overcome in terms of producing safe and effective nanotechnology-based products for agriculture. Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of nanotechnology in plant breeding are too significant to ignore and deserve further investigation and advancement through additional research and development. The integration of nanotechnology in tissue culture has shown great potential for improving breeding strategies and enhancing crop productivity. Using various nanomaterials and nanotools, researchers have been able to develop more efficient methods for plant transformation, genome editing, and gene expression analysis. Using various nanomaterials and nanotools, researchers have been able to enhance seed germination rates, reduce the negative effects of environmental stressors, and improve overall plant growth and development.

References

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How to cite this article

Duluri Soumya, Delvadiya I.R., Murakonda Sai Dinesh and Ginoya A.V. (2023). Nanotechnology Enabled Advancements in Plant Breeding. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 585-592.