Introduction and Objective: Medicinal plants, as valuable sources of secondary metabolites, play a vital role in various industries. However, the natural production of these compounds is often limited. This review article aims to systematically examine the role and mechanisms of action of nanoparticles (including metallic, non-metallic, and carbon types) as novel elicitors for enhancing the production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants.
Method and Theoretical Principles: The foundation of this review is based on the analysis of existing scientific evidence, which indicates that nanoparticles activate plant defense signaling pathways by inducing mild oxidative stress and generating reactive oxygen species. This process, in turn, leads to the modulation of key gene expression and the regulation of enzyme activities involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites.
Results: Nanoparticles boost biosynthesis of phenols (2.3‑fold), flavonoids (80%), alkaloids, and essential oils (230%). For instance, essential oil in yarrow rose by 230% and silymarin in milk thistle by 75%. This review covers the shared and distinct mechanisms of these nano‑elicitors in various plants.
Conclusion: In summary, nanoparticles represent a promising and powerful strategy for the sustainable enhancement of the production of plant metabolites with high commercial value. The future perspective of this field includes optimizing the type, size, and concentration of nanoparticles for specific species, more detailed investigation of signaling pathways at the molecular level, and comprehensive assessment of the safety and regulations associated with the use of this technology in agriculture and industry.