Research Projects

Nickel (Ni), a verifiable carcinogen for humans, is an essential micronutrient and toxicant for plants. Industrial usages have led to widespread environmental spillage and accumulation of Ni, particularly in Indian rivers and soils around mines. Plants are the primary source of energy synthesis and are consumed raw by consumers, increasing the risk of biomagnification. To mitigate toxic responses and prevent accumulation in edible parts, adequate measures are needed. stress training involves exposing plants to stressor elements briefly or at a low dose to manipulate them into forming a memory for better responses to harsh stress episodes. This can be achieved through physical or biochemical alterations. Nanoceria, a unique thermodynamic property of nanoceria and nanosilica, has shown antioxidant efficacy against soil salinity and abiotic stress agents. It has been shown to enhance growth under multiple stressors and physical strengthening of plant cells. The study aims to investigate how NC treatment containing nanoceria and nanosilica, along with Phosphate, could ameliorate toxic effects caused by excess Ni. This could lead to successful enhancement of growth, yield, and wellbeing.