Seed-priming with cold plasma and supplementation of nutrient solution with carbon nanotube enhanced carotenoid contents and the expression of psy and pdsin Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)

Abstract

Recent studies on cold-plasma and nanotechnology in some crop species have shown a potential for application in food, medicine, and crop improvement. Here, the behaviours of Momordica charantia were evaluated, following supplementation of nutrient solution with multi-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) and seed priming with cold plasma treatments. The ultra-structural study of stems confirmed CNT uptake and symplastic transportation. CNT supplementation and seed-priming with plasma synergistically provoked a drastic increase in the plant’s early growth and performance. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis confirmed that the applied treatments mediated variations in transcriptions of the phytoene-synthase gene (McPSY) and phytoene desaturase (McPDS). The McPDS and McPSY genes showed a similar expression trend in which the highest expression levels were observed in CNT50+Plasma 60 group. According to HPLC analysis, the CNT50+Plasma60 treatment was the most effective way to increase concentrations of β-carotene. The applied treatments dependent on dose and treatment method increased zeaxanthin concentration. Similarly, CNT50+Plasma 60 and CNT100+Plasma 60 groups had significantly higher α-carotene levels than the other treatment group. Moreover, the statistical analysis confirmed the significant positive correlations between the expression of target genes and concentrations of carotenoids. Herein, a theoretical basis was gained to exploit in the food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries.