Significant progress in nanotechnology in recent years has been driven by the growing need for new methods of synthesizing nanomaterials and expanding their applications. One such approach is the «green» synthesis of metal nanoparticles (NPs) using plant extracts, which possess both reducing and stabilizing properties. In agriculture, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are attracting attention due to their antimicrobial effect and ability to stimulate plant growth. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of green-synthesized AgNPs on the growth of Bidens pilosa L., flavonoid accumulation, and antiradical activity of plant extracts. Plants were subcultured in sterile containers in a medium supplemented with either 5 mL/L or 10 mL/L AgNPs for four weeks. The 5 mL/L concentration had no significant effect on growth, whereas 10 mL/L caused partial inhibition of growth and a reduction in shoot weight compared to the control group. This indicates the potential toxicity of AgNPs to plants, particularly in terms of shoot development, while root growth remained unaffected. AgNPs influenced plant metabolism by increasing flavonoid content and antiradical activity. Their presence likely induces abiotic stress, stimulating flavonoid synthesis as a defense response. Since moderate concentration did not hinder plant growth, AgNP supplementation may be considered a promising strategy to enhance the accumulation of valuable compounds in B. pilosa.
Keywords: Bidens pilosa L., silver nanoparticles, flavonoid content, antiradical activity
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