Search Results (23)

Sustainable agriculture faces increasing challenges, necessitating innovative approaches to advance resource efficiency with minimal ecological consequences. One promising solution is nanobiotechnology, which takes advantage of natural systems for the eco-friendly synthesis of functional nanomaterials. Prokaryotic cyanobacteria and eukaryotic microalgae, due to their rapid growth, adaptability to diverse environments, and capacity for biosynthesis of valuable compounds, are model organisms highly suitable for medical, biotechnological, industrial, agricultural, and environmental applications. These photosynthetic microorganisms have demonstrated their efficacy in the biosynthesis of nanomaterials, which has potential benefits in various agricultural applications. The use of cyanobacteria- and microalgae-based nanomaterials in improving agricultural practices represents an emerging field of nanotechnology that requires ongoing research and responsible application management. To present a complete and timely foundation for this field, a systematic review of relevant research from the last five years was performed, exploring the contribution of cyanobacteria and microalgae to the advancement of nanobiotechnology as an efficient biotransformative tool for sustainable agriculture. Full article

Evaluating the effects of nanoparticles on biomass growth and astaxanthin accumulation in Haematococcus lacustris is crucial for optimizing the production of astaxanthin, a valuable carotenoid with numerous industrial applications. Identifying the life stages at which these nanoparticles exert stimulatory or toxic effects will aid in formulating effective production strategies. This study investigated the effects of titanium dioxide (TiO₂), zinc oxide (ZnO), and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles on biomass growth, astaxanthin biosynthesis, and lipid accumulation in Haematococcus lacustris, with a focus on their stage-specific impact throughout the algal life cycle. The nanoparticles were added at the start of cultivation, and the microalgal cultures developed continuously in their presence. Sampling for biochemical analyses was performed at distinct life stages (green motile, palmella, and aplanospore), enabling the assessment of stage-dependent responses. TiO₂NPs significantly stimulated biomass accumulation during the green motile stage. In the palmella stage, astaxanthin levels decreased in the presence of all nanoparticles, likely due to the absence of a stress signal required to activate pigment biosynthesis, despite ongoing biomass growth. In contrast, the aplanospore stage exhibited reactivation of astaxanthin biosynthesis and increased lipid accumulation, particularly under TiO₂NPs. Astaxanthin content increased by 21.57%. This study highlights that TiO₂, ZnO, and CuO nanoparticles modulate growth and astaxanthin biosynthesis in Haematococcus lacustris in a life cycle-dependent manner. Full article

The unintentional release of nanoparticles in the atmosphere and their targeted application to improve plant productivity requires detailed study. The translocation features of copper and gold nanoparticles applied by spraying in the concentration range of 1–100 mg/L in Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) tissues during a 10-day experiment were investigated. Atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy showed that copper and gold nanoparticles applied to the leaves’ surface could accumulate in plant organs. A dose-dependent increase in the content of copper and gold in the aerial parts of parsley was revealed. The content of copper in leaves treated with nanoparticles was 1–2.3 times higher than the control, while the content of gold exceeded control values 2–116 times. The effect of nanoparticles on plants’ biochemical composition was assessed. The antioxidant tests showed an ambiguous response at exposure to metal nanoparticles. Copper nanoparticles at the applied concentration consistently reduced both chlorophyll and carotenoid content. Gold nanoparticles enhanced the chlorophyll and carotenoid level at low concentrations (1 mg/L) and significantly inhibited it at higher concentrations. The parsley exposed to nano-copper remained safe for human consumption, but parsley containing more than 14.9 mg/kg of gold may adversely affect human health. Full article

(1) Background: The widespread use of nanoparticles (NPs) implies their inevitable contact with living organisms, including aquatic microorganisms, making it essential to understand the effects and consequences of this interaction. Understanding the adaptive responses and biochemical changes in microalgae and cyanobacteria under NP-induced stress is essential for developing biotechnological strategies that optimize biomolecule production while minimizing potential toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the interactions between various potentially toxic nanoparticles and the cyanobacterial strain Arthrospira platensis, focusing on the biological adaptations and biochemical mechanisms that enable the organism to withstand xenobiotic exposure. (2) Methods: The cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis CNMN-CB-02 was cultivated under optimal laboratory conditions in the presence of CuNPs, CuONPs, ZnONPs, and TiO₂NPs. Biochemical analyses were performed on the collected biomass. (3) Results: Various interactions between nanoparticles (NPs) and the cyanobacterial culture were identified, ranging from hormetic effects at low concentrations to evident toxic effects at high concentrations. NP toxicity was observed through the reduction in photosynthetic pigments and the disappearance of phycobiliproteins. Notably, NP toxicity was not always accompanied by increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. (4) Conclusions: Arthrospira platensis exhibits unique adaptive mechanisms under NP-induced stress, offering the potential for controlled NP applications in biotechnology. Future research should further explore the relationship between nanoparticle types and cyanobacterial responses to optimize biomolecule production. Full article

One of the primary sources of trace elements in the environment is wastewater used for irrigation. However, the effects of untreated wastewater containing high concentrations of chromium and zinc on vegetables and the potential human health risks associated with their consumption are poorly understood. This pot experiment aimed to address this research gap. The accumulation of chromium and zinc and their effect on the biochemical parameters of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and green onion (Allium fistulosum L.) irrigated with untreated industrial effluents were assessed. The average concentrations of chromium and zinc in the edible parts of the vegetables ranged between 7.36 and 7.58 mg/kg dry weight and 59.8 and 833 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. The irrigation of the lettuce with the effluent containing zinc at a concentration of 2.95 mg/L led to a significant increase in the content of phenols and the antioxidant activity. A significant reduction in the chlorophyll content of the lettuce leaves and the antioxidant activity of the onion leaves was observed when the plants were irrigated with the effluent containing zinc at a concentration of 78 mg/L. No non-carcinogenic health risk from the intake of chromium and zinc was identified through the consumption of lettuce and green onion, primarily due to the fact that a smaller proportion of the total metal content was transferred to their edible parts. Full article

The extensive development of nanotechnologies has allowed nanoparticles to impact living systems through different pathways. The effect of single exposure to high concentrations of silver and copper nanoparticles (50–200 mg/L) on Vaccinium myrtillus L. under field conditions was investigated. Nanoparticle uptake in different segments of Vaccinium myrtillus L. was assessed by applying inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectroscopy and a particle-induced X-ray emission technique. Copper nanoparticles mainly accumulated in the roots and leaves, while silver nanoparticles showed a higher affinity for the roots and berries. The nanoparticles’ effects on the pigments and antioxidant activity of the plant’s leaves were also evaluated. The possible human health risk associated with the consumption of nanoparticle-contaminated berries was assessed. The results indicated that the consumption of berries contaminated with nanoparticles presented a low risk for human health. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the biocompatibility and physiological impacts of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) functionalized with Spirulina protein extract (SPE) on laboratory rats. The objective was to assess and compare the systemic distribution, organ accumulation, and changes in hematological and biochemical parameters between biofunctionalized and non-functionalized silver nanoparticles. Methods: AgNPs were functionalized with SPE. Adult Wistar rats were administered these nanoparticles to assess their distribution across various organs using ICP-MS analysis. Hematological and biochemical markers were measured to evaluate systemic effects. Results: Functionalized silver nanoparticles demonstrated preferential accumulation in the brain, liver, and testicles, with significant clearance observed post-administration. The persistence of AgNPs SPE in reproductive organs was established. Hematological analysis revealed moderate changes, suggesting mild immune activation. Biochemical tests indicated transient increases in liver enzymes, signaling reversible hepatic stress. Conclusions: The biofunctionalization of AgNPs with Spirulina protein extract modifies the nanoparticles’ systemic behavior and organ distribution, enhancing their biocompatibility while inducing minimal physiological stress. These findings support the potential of Spirulina-based coatings to mitigate the toxicity and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of nanomedical agents. Full article

Nanoparticles, due to their extensive production and application, can have significant consequences for the environment, including soil and plant pollution. Therefore, it is very important to assess how nanoparticles will affect plants depending on the exposure pathways. The effect of gold nanoparticles in a concentration range of 1–100 mg/L on Mentha spicata L. during a 28-day experiment was investigated. Two routes of nanoparticles exposure were applied: root and foliar. Transmission electron microscopy was used to characterize nanoparticles and their effect on plant leaves’ ultrastructure. Gold content in soil and plant segments was determined using k0-neutron activation analysis. For root exposure, gold was mainly accumulated in soil (15.2–1769 mg/kg) followed by root systems (2.99–454 mg/kg). The maximum accumulation of gold in leaves (5.49 mg/kg) was attained at a nanoparticle concentration of 100 mg/L. Foliar exposure resulted in the maximum uptake of gold in leaves (552 mg/kg) and stems (18.4 mg/kg) at the highest applied nanoparticle concentration. The effect of nanoparticles on the Mentha spicata L. leaves’ biochemical composition was assessed. Nanoparticles affected the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids and led to an increase in antioxidant activity. Root exposure to gold nanoparticles resulted in an increase in the number of starch grains in chloroplasts and also suppressed the activity of the soil microbiota. Gold extraction from mint leaves into herbal infusion varied from 2 to 90% depending on the concentration of nanoparticles in the solution and the exposure route. The health risk as a result of gold exposure via herbal tea intake was assessed through estimated daily intake. The hazard quotient values were found to be less than the cutoff, indicating that a cup of tea infusion should not cause a serious impact to human health. Full article

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of 10 and 20 nm nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the growth and biochemical composition of microalga Porphyridium purpureum CNMN-AR-02 in two media which differ by the total amount of mineral salts (MM1 with 33.02 g/L and MM2 with 21.65 g/L). Spectrophotometric methods were used to estimate the amount of biomass and its biochemical composition. This study provides evidence of both stimulatory and inhibitory effects of AgNPs on different parameters depending on the concentration, size, and composition of the nutrient medium. In relation to the mineral medium, AgNPs exhibited various effects on the content of proteins (an increase up to 20.5% in MM2 and a decrease up to 36.8% in MM1), carbohydrates (a decrease up to 35.8% in MM1 and 39.6% in MM2), phycobiliproteins (an increase up to 15.7% in MM2 and 56.8% in MM1), lipids (an increase up to 197% in MM1 and no changes found in MM2), antioxidant activity (a decrease in both media). The composition of the cultivation medium has been revealed as one of the factors influencing the involvement of nanoparticles in the biosynthetic activity of microalgae. Full article

Rare-earth elements are released into the aquatic environment as a result of their extensive use in industry and agriculture, and they can be harmful for living organisms. The effects of holmium(III), erbium(III), and gadolinium(III) when added to a growth medium in concentrations ranging from 10 to 30 mg/L on the accumulation ability and biochemical composition of Arthrospira platensis were studied. According to the results of a neutron activation analysis, the uptake of elements by cyanobacteria occurred in a dose-dependent manner. The addition of gadolinium(III) to the growth medium did not significantly affect the amount of biomass, whereas erbium(III) and holmium(III) reduced it up to 22% compared to the control. The effects of rare-earth elements on the content of proteins, carbohydrates, phycobiliproteins, lipids, β carotene, and chlorophyll a were evaluated. The studied elements had different effects on the primary biomolecule content, suggesting that holmium(III) and erbium(III) were more toxic than Gd(III) for Arthrospira platensis. Full article

Praseodymium, the sixth-most abundant rare-earth element, is widely used in the aircraft industry for the elaboration of refractory substances, coloring materials, lighting equipment, and fiber optical cables. Living and non-living Arthrospira platensis biomass was applied for Pr(III) removal from aqueous solutions. In bioaccumulation experiments, the effect of Pr(III), introduced into the medium in a concentration range of 10–30 mg/L, on biomass productivity, biochemical composition, and antioxidant activity was assessed. The biomass showed high accumulation capacity (more than 99%) toward Pr(III). Supplementation of the cultivation medium with Pr(III) led to a decrease in carbohydrate and lipid content, but it did not significantly influence biomass productivity or the content of proteins and pigments. In experiments with non-living biomass, the effect of pH, Pr(III) concentration, temperature, and contact time on the efficiency of metal removal was investigated. The maximum uptake of Pr(III) was achieved at pH 3.0 after 3.0 min of interaction. The equilibrium data were explained using the Langmuir and Freundlich models, while the kinetics of the process was described by applying pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and Elovich models. The maximum sorption capacity of Arthrospira platensis biomass calculated from the Langmuir model was 99.3 mg/g. According to the thermodynamic calculations, the process of Pr(III) removal was spontaneous and exothermic in nature. The obtained data can be used for the development of environmentally-friendly technology for Pr(III) recovery from wastewater as well as to understand the effect of Pr(III) on aquatic organisms. Full article

The application of metal nanoparticles in industry and medicine results in their release into the environment, which can have a negative impact on human health. The effects of gold (AuNPs) and copper (CuNPs) nanoparticles at the concentration range of 1–200 mg/L on parsley (Petroselinum crispum) under conditions of root exposure and their translocation in roots and leaves were investigated in a 10-day experiment. The content of copper and gold in soil and plant segments was determined using ICP-OES and ICP-MS techniques, while the morphology of nanoparticles was analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. Differences in the nanoparticle uptake and translocation were observed: CuNPs mainly accumulated in soil (4.4–465 mg/kg), while accumulation in the leaves were at the control level. AuNPs mainly accumulated in soil (0.04–108 mg/kg), followed by roots (0.05–45 mg/kg) and leaves (0.16–53 mg/kg). The influence of AuNPs and CuNPs on the biochemical parameters of parsley was on the content of carotenoids, the levels of chlorophyll, and antioxidant activity. Application of CuNPs even at the lowest concentration led to a significant reduction in carotenoids and total chlorophyll content. AuNPs at low concentrations promoted an increase in the content of carotenoids; however, they also significantly reduced it at concentrations higher than 10 mg/L. To our knowledge, this is the first study of the effect of metal nanoparticles on parsley. Full article

The biosorption and bioaccumulation of gadolinium by Arthospira platensis in batch experiments was examined. In biosorption experiments, the influence of pH, gadolinium concentration, time of contact and temperature on Arthospira platensis sorption capacity was investigated. The maximum biosorption capacity of 101 mg/g was attained at a pH of 3.0 and temperature of 20 °C. A pseudo-first-order model was applicable to describe the kinetics of the biosorption and the Freundlich model to explain the equilibrium of the process. In bioaccumulation experiments, besides the examination of the gadolinium uptake by Arthospira platensis, its effect on biomass productivity as well as the content of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and pigments was assessed. The addition of gadolinium in the cultivation medium resulted in the increase in biomass productivity and the content of MDA and, at the same time, in the reduction in the amount of proteins and carbohydrates. The content of other monitored parameters did not change significantly. The water extracts obtained from Arthospira platensis showed a higher antiradical activity against the ABTS cation radical in comparison with ethanolic extracts. Arthospira platensis is of interest for the development of the technology of gadolinium-contaminated wastewater remediation. Full article

Selenium nanoparticles are attracting the attention of researchers due to their multiple applications, including medicine. The biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles has become particularly important due to the environmentally friendly character of the process and special properties of the obtained particles. The possibility of performing the biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles via the living culture of Arthrospira platensis starting from sodium selenite was studied. The bioaccumulation capacity of the culture, along with changes in the main biochemical parameters of the biomass, the ultrastructural changes in the cells during biosynthesis and the change in the expression of some genes involved in stress response reactions were determined. Protein, lipid and polysaccharide fractions were obtained from the biomass grown in the presence of sodium selenite. The formation of selenium nanoparticles in the protein fraction was demonstrated. Thus, Arthrospira platensis culture can be considered a suitable matrix for the biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles. Full article

Rhenium is a scarce and highly important metal for industry and technology. In the present study, the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) was used to remove rhenium and related elements (Mo and Cu) from mono- and polymetallic synthetic effluents. Metal ions in different concentrations were added to the culture medium on the first, third, and fifth days of biomass growth, and their uptake by the biomass was traced using ICP-AES technique. The accumulation of rhenium in the biomass was dependent on the chemical composition of the effluents, and the highest uptake of 161 mg/kg was achieved in the Re-Cu system. The presence of rhenium, copper, and molybdenum affected the productivity of Spirulina biomass and its biochemical composition (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, phycobiliproteins, the content of chlorophyll α and β-carotene). With the growth of biomass in the presence of rhenium or rhenium and molybdenum, a pronounced increase in productivity and protein content was observed. The presence of copper in systems has a negative effect on biomass productivity and biochemical composition. Arthrospira platensis may be of interest as a bioremediator of rhenium-containing effluents of various chemical compositions. Full article