Abstract: The use of nanomaterials, especially nanoparticles, in plant physiology is crucial for
understanding their effects on plant development and productivity, as well as for assessing potential
environmental risks to food safety and human health. Zinc oxide nanoparticles are among the most
widely produced, used, and likely to be released into the environment. The study assessed the effects
of ZnO nanoparticles on the photosynthetic activity, pigment content, enzymes activity of barley
(Hordeum vulgare) plants under normal irrigation and drought conditions. The results showed that
the application of ZnO nanoparticles improved the resistance of barley plants to drought stress. This
was evidenced by increased chlorophyll pigment and carotenoids levels in the leaves, decreased
activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, POX and APX) under drought stress, and significant change in
the Fv/Fm parameter of chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlaF). In conclusion, our findings suggest that
ZnO nanoparticles played a significant role in enhancing the tolerance of plants to drought stress.
Acta Botanica Caucasica от Бакинского государственного университета распространяется по лицензии CC BY 4.0
