X-rays reveal uptake of nanoparticles by soya bean crops

(European Synchrotron Radiation Facility) Scientists have for the first time traced engineered nanoparticles, taken up from soil by crop plants, and analyzed the chemical states of their metallic elements. Zinc dissolves and accumulates throughout the plants; cerium does not dissolve, but CeO2 nanoparticles were detected in plant tissue. This contributes to the controversial debate on plant toxicity of nanoparticles and entry of engineered nanoparticles into the food chain.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: Global & Universal Source Type: news