Application of silver nanoparticles in in-vitro plant growth and metabolite production: revisiting its scope and feasibility

Nanotechnology is a rapidly growing field of science and technology, which deals with development of new solutions by understanding and controlling matter at nanoscale level. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)are one of the most recognized nanomaterials that are incorporated in a wide range of extensive applications due to their unique properties. Over the past years, scientific interest in using AgNPs in the field of plant biotechnology and agriculture has gained momentum. Acknowledging this aspect of application of AgNPs, the present review delved into the numerous research studies conducted to explore the effects of AgNPs on in-vitro seed germination, plant propagation and metabolite production highlighting their positive as well as the negative aspects. The suggested mechanism of action of AgNPs on plants and limitations faced in applying these nanoparticles on a commercial scale are also discussed. While AgNPs have demonstrated massive potential in plant tissue culture, their application in enhancing overall plant growth have demonstrated conflicting outcomes in different plant species. This clearly highlights that there is a need for more in-depth research in order to understand the intricate complexities involved in nanoparticle action and their inherent phytotoxic nature.