Effect of metal oxide nanoparticles on nutritional quality of chickpea: A focus on protein and mineral content

Abstract

Chickpea is a nutritious leguminous crop mostly cultivated for its leaves and grains offering a reliable and cost-effective source of protein. Its production and nutritional quality are hindered by soil degradation in many regions worldwide. However, studies have shown that the use of nanoparticles for plant fertilization can enhance plant nutritional quality and growth. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of ZnO, Fe 2 O 3 and CuO nanoparticles on chickpea mineral composition and total protein content. Total protein content was evaluated using a LECO TruMac Carbon (C) and Nitrogen (N) analyser (TRUMAC CN) analyzer. Chickpea seeds and grains’ mineral composition was evaluated through ICP-EOS. Data was subjected to a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings revealed that foliar application of 5 ppm of ZnO NPs increased Zn concentrations by 70% for Desi and 30% for Kabuli grains, also increasing the uptake of other minerals such as Ca, Cu, K, and Na, as compared to the control treatment. Both genotypes reacted differently to foliar application of Fe 2 O 3 and CuO nanoparticles, although the favorable effect on nutrient accumulation in both leaves and grains was significant. The protein content of chickpea grains was enhanced by the application of all nanoparticles at lower concentrations.