The unique properties of nano-sized materials (small size, ability to penetrate cells, fast distribution inside organisms) make them an attractive tool for crop management techniques. We demonstrated that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can significantly increase production of flowers and fruits of plants grown in soil supplemented with CNTs. In order to consider the possible use of nanomaterials in agriculture, the consequences of the introduction of man-made nanomaterials into the environment have to be investigated in detail. We made the first attempt to investigate effects of CNTs used as plant growth regulators on the soil microbiota using advanced molecular techniques. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and pyrosequencing analysis were used to monitor differences and variations in the overall microbial community composition from regular soil and carbon nanotubes-treated soil used for growing tomato plants. The results showed that the diversity and richness of microbial communities were not significantly affected by CNTs.

Enhancement of plant productivity by nanotechnology with the assessment of potential environmental risks

245th National Meeting (2013)

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