Abstract
The number of studies on nanomaterials, the ecological significance and the possible ecotoxicity have been increased over the last decade. Nanoparticles have been considered a potential health risk and a massive menace to the environment. The aim of the study was to explore the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the growth, metabolism, stress and defense systems during seed germination and seedling development. Pea (Pisum sativum L. var. Alicia), white beans [Phaseolus vulgaris L. 'Snowdon' (Pv1)] and red beans [Vigna angularis 'adzuki bean' (Pv2)]. Seeds were germinated for 5 days. Seedlings were then transplanted into several trays filled with nutrient solution for 15 days. At harvest, plants were divided into leaves, stems and roots. Application of ZnO nanoparticles (150 mg/L and 300 mg/L) improved vegetable production. The antioxidant activities in cytosolic, chloroplast, and mitochondrial compartments varied according to ZnO doses, organs and plant species. Significant changes were found caused by genetic variability. A gradation of quantitative differences in ZnO-NPs resistance is more typically observed between plant genotypes.