Detection of Zinc-Derived Signals in Perilla Seedlings Treated with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract Surface-modified zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were applied to perilla seedlings grown hydroponically, and Zn-derived signals were examined by SEM–EDS. Controls showed no signals in six pooled samples per organ. In treated seedlings, signals were detected in 2/2 root, 1/2 stem, and 0/2 leaf samples at 10 kV, and 4/4 root, 4/4 stem, and 2/4 leaf samples at 20 kV. Detection was more frequent in roots than leaves; SEM–EDS cannot distinguish intact ZnO NPs from other Zn species.