Selenium nanoparticle-mediated enhancement of plant biochemistry and metabolite enrichment: GC-MS profiling of selenium-enriched sesame seed oil

This study explored the impact of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the biochemistry and seed oil profile of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Sesame plants were treated foliarly with varying dosages of SeNPs (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mg/L) and 5 mg/L of selenium salt. UV-Visible spectrum indicated a peak absorption at 279 nm for SeNPs, while FTIR analysis confirmed the reduction of sodium selenite to SeNPs using Allium sativum extract. The highest total flavonoid content (TFC) and total phenolic content (TPC) were recorded at 14.72 and 14.24 mg/g, respectively, for the 40 mg/L treatment. Additionally, GC-MS analysis identified thirty-five chemical compounds in sesame seed oil. The Kyoto encyclopaedia of gene and genomics (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed significant metabolite enrichment across eight pathways, particularly in pyruvate metabolism. Overall, SeNPs enhanced the biochemical profile and metabolite detection in sesame seed oil, potentially improving crop yield and stress resilience.