Exploiting the synergistic influence of AgNPs-TiONPs: enhancing phytostabilization of Pb and mitigating its toxicity in .

In this study, a composite of silver and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (AgNPs-TiONPs) was examined for its synergistic effects on phytostabilization of lead (Pb) and mitigation of toxicity in cowpea ( (L) Walp). Seeds of were wetted with water, 0.05 and 0.1 mgL Pb and 25 mgmL each of AgNPs, TiONPs, and AgNPs-TiONPs. Root lengths of were reduced by 25% and 44% at 0.05 and 0.1 mgL Pb, respectively, while shoot lengths were reduced by 2% and 7%. In , AgNPs and TiONPs significantly improved physiological indicators and mitigated Pb effects, with TiONPs modulating physiological parameters more effectively than AgNPs. The composite (AgNPs-TiONPs) synergistically regulated physiology better than individual nanoparticles. Compared to individual AgNPs and TiONPs, the composite (AgNPs-TiONPs) synergistically increased antioxidant activity by 12% and 9%, and carotenoid contents by 88%. Additionally, AgNPs-TiONPs effectively reduced malondialdehyde levels by 29%, thereby mitigating the effects of Pb on better than individual nanoparticles. AgNPs-TiONPs enhanced Pb immobilization by 57%, reducing its translocation from soil to shoots compared to wetted with water. The bioconcentration and translocation factors of Pb indicate that phytostabilization was most effective when the composite was used.