AUTHOR=Sahil  , Chaudhary Anis Ahmad , Sorout Sonia , Yadav Kushi , Ali Mohamed A. M. , Boufahja Fehmi , Kumar Vikram , Jain Devendra , Verma Kumar Sambhav 

TITLE=Auxin mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles: a novel approach to enhance shoot and root growth in pearl millet

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Plant Science

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2025.1621007

DOI=10.3389/fpls.2025.1621007

ISSN=1664-462X

ABSTRACT=IntroductionPearl millet, a staple in arid areas, usually suffers from inadequate root development due to environmental stressors. Specifically, using nanotechnology, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) provide a revolutionary way to improve plant development.MethodsAuxins, specifically Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), were used as stabilizing and reducing agents in the synthesis of AuNPs. UV-Vis, FTIR, SEM, zeta potential, and DLS studies were used to characterize the nanoparticles. Their effect on pearl millet seedlings was evaluated by in vitro tests.ResultsThe control seedlings had shoot and root lengths of 2 cm and 3.5 cm, respectively. With IAA-AuNPs, shoot and root lengths increased to 5.25 cm and 6.75 cm, while with IBA-AuNPs, they increased to 4.75 cm and 7.75 cm. No phytotoxic effects were discovered.DiscussionPearl millet development was markedly enhanced by IAA- and IBA-stabilized AuNPs, indicating their potential as safe and efficient growth enhancers in situations impacted by stress.