Maghemite Nanoparticles Acts as Nanozymes, Improving Growth and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Brassica napus

Yttrium doping-stabilized γ-Fe(2)O(3) nanoparticles were studied for its potential to serve as a plant fertilizer and, through enzymatic activity, support drought stress management. Levels of both hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation, after drought, were reduced when γ-Fe(2)O(3) nanoparticles were delivered by irrigation in a nutrient solution to Brassica napus plants grown in soil. Hydrogen peroxide was reduced from 151 to 83 μM g(−1) compared to control, and the malondialdehyde formation was reduced from 36 to 26 mM g(−1). Growth rate of leaves was enhanced from 33 to 50% growth compared to fully fertilized plants and SPAD-measurements of chlorophyll increased from 47 to 52 suggesting improved agronomic properties by use of γ-Fe(2)O(3) nanoparticles as fertilizer as compared to chelated iron. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1186/s11671-017-2404-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.