Interaction of Nanoatrazine and Target Organism: Evaluation of Fate and Photosystem II Inhibition in Hydroponically Grown Mustard (Brassica juncea) Plants

Author(s)

Preisler, Ana Cristina ; Carvalho, Lucas Braganca ; Saraiva-Santos, Telma ; Verri Jr, Waldiceu Aparecido ; Sampaio Mayer, Juliana Lischka ; Fraceto, Leonardo Fernandes ; Dalazen, Giliardi ; Oliveira, Halley Caixeta

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry; v. 70, n. 25, p. 9-pg., 2022-06-08.

Abstract

Poly(epsilon-caprolactone) nanoparticles are an efficient carrier system for atrazine. However, there is a gap regarding the effects of nanoencapsulation on herbicide-plant interactions. Here, we evaluate the fate and photosystem II inhibition of nano and commercial atrazine in hydroponically grown mustard (Brassica juncea) plants whose roots were exposed to the formulations. In addition, to quantify the endogenous levels of atrazine in plant organs, we measured the inhibition of photosystem II activity by both formulations. Moreover, the fluorescently labeled nanoatrazine was tracked in plant tissues using confocal microscopy. The nanoencapsulation induced greater inhibition of photosystem II activity as well as higher accumulation of atrazine in roots and leaves. The nanoparticles were quickly absorbed by the roots, being detected in the vascular tissues and the leaves. Overall, these results provide insights into the mechanisms involved in the enhanced preemergent herbicidal activity of nanoatrazine against target plants. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/21004-5 - Agriculture, micro/nanotechnology and environment: from evaluation of the mechanisms of action to studies of transport and toxicity
• Grantee: Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 18/23608-8 - Development of labelled nanopesticides aiming studies of mechanism of action and toxicity
• Grantee: Lucas Bragança de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral