Effects of Nanoparticles in Plants: Phytotoxicity and Genotoxicity Assessment in : Nanomaterials in Plants, Algae and Microorganisms

Different types of nanoparticles (NPs) and nanomaterials, each with specific physicochemical characteristics, are increasingly used in many sectors, for example in industry, medicine, and agriculture. Although their use has improved our lifestyle, the possibility of NPs accumulating and contaminating the environment must be considered in light of their possible harmful effects on living systems, including plants. This chapter reviews the genotoxic and phytotoxic effects of NPs, considering recent work on different plant species, including crops. In particular, Vicia faba L. and Allium cepa L were confirmed as model plants for genotoxicity studies in nanoimpact investigations. In addition, studies focus on controversial effects of NPs on plants and highlight various factors, like the NPs' chemical properties (size, concentration, etc.), the plant species, and the environmental surroundings, that can determine the extent of the negative (or positive) response to NP exposure. Many more studies need to be done to understand fully the impact and effect of NPs on the environment, on plants, and more generally on all living beings.