Neutron Radiographic of Water Dynamics in Lettuce Plants Primed with Chitosan-Stabilized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: A Model for Water Balance in Agricultural Systems

The use of nanoparticles (NPs) for seed priming, improves germination, plant growth, and resilience to environmental stress. Iron is crucial for various cellular processes in plants, including respiration and photosynthesis. Stabilizing FeNPs with biopolymers notably chitosan (CS) through steric repulsion or electrosteric stabilization enhances dispersion and interaction with plant tissues. The preliminary data have shown that nano priming using the lowest molecular weight CS-FeNP 1000 mol/g increases the plant performance, especially the shoot and root length. Preliminary data using IMAT radiographic shows that chitosan-stabilized iron oxide nanoparticles (CS-FeNPs) improve seed germination and plant growth. However, the fundamental mechanisms of water transport within plants treated with these nanoparticles have yet to be studied. The purpose of this research is to study water dynamics in lettuce plants treated with CS-FeNPs and FeNPs using IMAT. Water intake and distribution patterns in primed plants will be modeled to gain a better understanding of how NP treatments influence water dynamics. This study will be critical in improving nanoparticle-based seed priming strategies to increase agricultural production, water optimization and promote sustainable farming practices. The knowledge that will be gained from this study has the potential to revolutionize agricultural practices by offering new insights into water management strategies in crops.