Nanoparticle (CdS) interaction with host (Sesamum indicum L.) – its localization, transportation, stress induction and genotoxicity

Abstract

The present study highlights the nanoimpact of cadmium sulfide quantum dots on a plant system (Sesamum indicum L.) encompassing uptake of nanoparticles (NPs), subsequent translocation following root to leaf transportation pathway using both water- and food-conducting elements and deposition in nucleus and cytoplasm with no preferential subcellular localization. Nanocrystal agglomeration, mucilaginous sheathing and vesicularization studied are the host toxicity minimization attempt. Cellular stress due to NPs is recorded in the form of elevated production of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde. However, non-synchronous activation of ascorbate peroxidase-monodehydroascorbate reductase-glutathione reductase-glutathione S-transferase enzyme system contributes to failure of anti-oxidative response and persistence of stress environment. Flow cytometric assessment reveals changes in cellular metabolic event along with blockage of cell division at G1 phase and enhances apoptotic cell death. Nuclear internalization along with oxidative burst results in generation of DNA double-strand break which can be the focal point of genome alteration and subsequent gene mutation.

Keywords

• CdS-NPs
• S. indicum
• localization
• transportation
• stress
• genotoxicity