Mechanisms underlying toxicity and stimulatory role of single-walled carbon nanotubes in Hyoscyamus niger during drought stress simulated by polyethylene glycol
Drought stress showed reduction in germination, vigor and early growth indices in H. niger. Low dosage of SWCNTs alleviated the drought stress (up to moderate levels only). Higher concentrations of SWCNTs improved cellular injury indices. SWCNTs dose-dependent modulations of the antioxidant defense enzymes were observed. SWCNTs can induce tolerance in H. niger seedlings via biosynthesis of specific metabolites.