Impact of GA3 encapsulated nanosilica on maize seed viability

The nanoparticles have the potential ability of the passing cell membrane because of their size in nano meters. The SiO2 nanoparticles are one of the major and frequently used engineered oxide nanoparticles. In present investigation, the potential effect of SiO2 (10-20 nm) nanoparticles on maize seed viability were studied. We observed quick result of seed viability as well as increases in seed viability percentage in presence of Gibberellic acid (GA(3)) encapsulated silica nanoparticles. Three concentrations (0.5, 0.2 and 0.1%) of tetrazolium salts were used for staining of living tissue. The seeds preconditioned in 150 ppm GA(3) encapsulated nanosilica and tested in 0.5% tetrazolium salt gave maximum viable seeds which were due to the increased availability of GA(3) and showed quick staining over 0.2% and 0.1% concentration. Among the varieties, var. Navin imbibed in 150 ppm gibberellic acid encapsulated nanosilica showed a higher value of viable seed under 0.5% tetrazolium solution due to better availability of GA(3). Gibberellic acid enhances metabolic activity of seed by secretion of alpha-amylase enzyme which is important for quick staining of embryonic tissue.