Influence of Nanoparticles on Biomass Yield and Secondary Metabolites in Plant Species under In Vitro and Ex Vitro Culture

This project addresses the challenges in plant biomass production, such as variable environmental conditions, pests, and genetic variability, which limit yield and crop homogeneity. While in vitro culture mitigates some issues, limitations like microbial contamination persist. The proposed solution involves applying nanoparticles (NPs), such as ZnONPs and AgNPs, known for stimulating plant growth and possessing antimicrobial properties. The main objective is to evaluate the impact of these NPs on biomass yield and secondary metabolite production in plants cultivated both in vitro and ex vitro. The methodology comprises three phases: (1) optimizing disinfection protocols and establishing explants using NPs; (2) determining optimal NP dosages for in vitro multiplication and rooting; and (3) assessing the physiological (Photosystem II, chlorophyll index) and genetic (DNA sequencing) health of the treated plants. The expected outcome is the development of efficient protocols for plant propagation, establishing safe and effective NP concentrations that result in vigorous and healthy plants, thereby benefiting the profitability and sustainability of the agricultural sector.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To evaluate the influence of nanoparticles (NPs), specifically zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles, on biomass yield and secondary metabolite production in plant species cultivated under in vitro and ex vitro conditions.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Biodiversity and genetic resources