Seed Priming with Nano Silica Alleviates Drought Stress through Regulating Antioxidant Defense System and Osmotic Adjustment in Soybean (Glycine max L.)

The soybean seeds were subjected to priming treatments using varying concentration of silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles in conjunction with water. The study assessed the effects of SiO2 nanoparticles on seed germination, seedling vigour, biochemical parameters, and osmotic adjustments in seeds that were primed with SiO2 nanoparticles, hydroprimed, and control seeds. These evaluations were conducted under conditions of moisture stress generated by PEG 6000 at -4 and -5 bars, as well as under non-drought stress condition. The findings of the study indicate that lower concentrations of SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) had a positive impact on seed physiological and biochemical parameters. Conversely, higher concentrations of SiO2 NPs during priming resulted in reduced seed germination and antioxidant activity, both in drought stress and non stress conditions. Soybean seeds that were treated with silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) at a concentration of 500 mg/liter exhibited the highest rate of germination, germination percentage, and seedling vigour in non drought stress and in drought stress at -4 and -5 bars. The application of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) at a concentration of 500 mg/liter during seed priming resulted in an enhancement in antioxidant enzyme activities, including catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. Additionally, the seedlings exhibited increased levels of proline and relative water content, while experiencing a reduction in electrolyte leakage from the leaves under conditions of moisture stress generated by polyethylene glycol (PEG).