Gupta Aayushi author Bharati Rohit author Kubes Jan author Vachova Pavla author Popelkova Daniela author Mahawar Lovely author Zivcak Marek author Yang Xinghong author Brestic Marian author Skalicky Milan author text journal article 2024 In modern agriculture, nano-priming represents an innovative approach, harnessing the power of nanotechnology to enhance crop yields and nutrition. However, to effectively harness the potential of nanoparticles (NPs) for agriculture applications, understanding their mode of action and optimal application rates for positive effects on microgreen growth and physiology is critical. In this interdisciplinary study, we investigated the priming of sunflower seeds with a range of concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg/L) of ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles (FeNPs) and compared them with control samples. Our findings revealed a significant increase in plant biomass, leaf size, and photosynthetic activity in treated samples. The activities of photosystems I and II increased with higher FeNPs concentration. The treated samples exhibited elevated levels of total phenolics, anthocyanin, and antioxidant enzyme activity, along with increased macronutrients and micronutrients. These findings highlight the potential of FeNPs as a promising tool for enhancing plant growth and physiology in sunflower microgreens. seed priming; antioxidant; fluorescence activity; nutrients 10.17221/272/2024-PSE https://pse.agriculturejournals.cz/artkey/pse-202411-0003.php https://pse.agriculturejournals.cz/artkey/pse-202411-0003.php continuing 70 11 702 711 2024 12141178 periodical academic journal