Uncovering the phytotoxicity of typical perovskite nanomaterials in peanut plants

This study systematically investigates the phytotoxic mechanisms of lead-based perovskite solar cells (Pb-PSCs), an emerging energy nanomaterial, using the deep-rooted leguminous crop Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut) as a model system. Multi-scale analyses integrating physiological, spatial elemental imaging, and omics approaches revealed that Pb-PSC exposure induced significant morphological impairments, including root morphogenesis inhibition and stem elongation reduction. Spatial imaging techniques revealed the Pb uptake and transport through apoplast pathway and active transport pathway in root tissue. The internalized Pb element accumulated as salt precipitation around the root epidermis and cortex nearby endodermis, resulting in compression distortion of cell structures. Meanwhile, Pb PSC exposure induced an inhibition of Ca and Cu upward transport, causing nutrient deficiency in plants. Omics analysis revealed a marked activation of Salicylic Acid (SA) signaling pathways during defense priming, while the concomitant m etabolic hyperactivity triggered severe growth trade-offs, resulting in ‌55.5 % reduction in fresh biomass, 56 % suppression in shoot elongation, and 47 % inhibition of root development‌ compared to untreated controls. This work pioneers the elucidation of absorption dynamics, spatial distribution patterns, and molecular toxicity cascades of Pb-PSCs in plants, providing design-critical insights for developing biodegradable encapsulation systems, targeted material substitution strategies, and bio-inspired material architectures to mitigate ecological risks while advancing sustainable photovoltaic nanotechnology. • Novel evidence of lead-based perovskite solar cell material toxicity in peanut root systems. • Lead precipitation compresses cell membranes, challenging traditional nano-toxicity views. • Innovative multi-analytical approach combines laser ablation ICP-MS with transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. • Clarification of molecular responses in peanut seedlings exposed to Pb PSCs. • Advances in nano-phytotoxicity research provide new insights and strategies.