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Inhibiting cholinesterase (ChE) such as AChE and BChE is thought to be one of the most effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia. In the present work, a new facile method for (1S,4S)-4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-n-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-amine based analogues 4 (a–p) in good yield (66–93 %) were synthesized by refluxing demethylsertraline (2) with different aldehydes and ketones 3 (a–p). The newly synthesized analogues 4 (a–p) were characterized by physical and spectroscopic techniques for instance FTIR, LR-MS and HR-MS. The synthesized demethylsertraline based analogues 4 (a–p) were examined for their biological activities against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). In case of AChE activity, electron donating substituents have shown more inhibition as 4–hydroxyphenyl– (4b, IC50, 0.98 ± 0.99 µM) and 3,4–dimethoxyyphenyl– (4c, IC50, 1.0 ± 0.98 µM) and exhibited excellent binding affinity. In case of BChE activity, 4e consisting of electron withdrawing substituent has shown potent inhibition (1.26 ± 0.34 µM). Similarly, 4i and 4n depicted good inhibition with IC50 values 1.66 ± 0.78 µM and 1.66 ± 0.98 µM respectively as they possess weakly donating substituents. The structure activity relationship of BChE inhibition has shown opposite trend than AChE inhibition. It has been scrutinized that strong electron donating substituent decrease the BChE inhibitory activities whereas electron withdrawing groups greatly enhance the enzyme inhibition activity. In silico study of the synthesized compounds 4 (a–p) of the series was carried out. Compound 4b demonstrated excellent interaction with AChE compare with Eserine (standard) with a score of 6228 and an ACE value of –101.33 kcal/mol. Compound 4e demonstrated potent interaction with BChE compare with Eserine (standard) with a score of 6028 and ACE value of –258.53 kcal/mol. Compound 4b has the potential to serve as a lead molecule in medication development for Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

The present study reports the design and synthesis of new benzimidazole-oxadiazole compounds as potent inhibitors of α-glucosidase and α-amylase. The synthesized molecules were characterized through different techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HREI-MS and evaluated for their in vitro inhibitory activities against these enzymes. Among the compounds screened, compound 8 demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity against both α-glucosidase (IC50 = 11.60 µM) and α-amylase (IC50 = 6.20 µM). Molecular docking analyses were conducted to investigate the binding modes and interactions of the active compounds within the enzyme active sites. The results demonstrate that several benzimidazole-oxadiazole hybrids exhibited potent inhibitory effects on both α-glucosidase and α-amylase, suggesting their promise as antidiabetic agents.

We have synthesized thiadiazole-isatin hybrid analogues (1–20), characterized through different spectroscopic techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HREI-MS, and evaluated against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes. All analogues showed potent inhibitory potentials, having an IC50 values ranged from 22.08 ± 0.09 to 54.03 ± 0.07 μM (against α-amylase) and 19.03 ± 0.04 to 50.03 ± 0.02 μM (α-glucosidase) when compared with the standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 22.07 ± 0.02 μM for α-amylase and IC50 = 18.01 ± 0.06 μM for α-glucosidase respectively). Among the series, analogues 13 (IC50 = 19.03 ± 0.04 and 22.08 ± 0.09 μM), 12 (IC50 = 21.03 ± 0.07 and 24.03 ± 0.07 μM), and 5 (IC50 = 22.02 ± 0.03 and 26.02 ± 0.04 μM) were identified as the most active inhibitors. The structure–activity relationship was carried out, mainly associated with the nature, number, position, and electron-donating and electron-withdrawing effects of the substituent (s) on the phenyl ring. With the help of molecular docking, the binding interaction of the most active analogues within the active site of enzymes was confirmed. Almost twelve compounds were also screened for antibacterial potential, and few were found to be effective against Bacillus subtilis. All compounds were verified for cytotoxicity against the 3 T3 mouse fibroblast cell line and detected non-toxic.

In this study we have adopted a new synthetic route for different substituted Schiff base derivatives (1–10) and examined their anti-diabetic potential. All these compounds exhibited a varied range against α-amylase and α-glucosidase with antidiabetic potential. Analog (6) with triflouro methyl substituent, present on the para position of the ring was emerged as most potent compound. Acarbose was used as reference drug with IC50 = 6.80 ± 0.40 μM and 7.20 ± 0.70 μM for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Furthermore, antibacterial and antifungal activity of these compounds was also evaluated against E. coli and A. alternate in the presence of marketed drug Terbinafine and Streptomycin. Binding modalities of synthesized compounds with the receptor residues of target enzymes were explored by in silico docking. Additionally, ADME analysis and DFT were also conducted to assess the drug-like characteristics and electronic properties of the potent derivatives. The synthesized compounds were confirmed through spectroscopic techniques such as 13C NMR, 1H NMR and HREI-Mass spectrometry.

A series of new benzohydrazide based thiourea derivatives were synthesized, characterized through different spectroscopic techniques like 1HNMR, 13CNMR and HREI-MS and screened against Bacillus pasteurii (B.P) and Jack bean (J.B) ureases enzymes. All derivatives showed good inhibitory potential ranging from 20.05 ± 0.03 to 39.34 ± 1.05 (against J.B Urease) and 23.54 ± 0.21 to 58.65 ± 0.41 (against B.P Urease) as compared to the standard thiourea (IC50 = 14.02 ± 0.25 and 18.01 ± 0.13 µM, respectively). It was observed that the two scaffold 1 (IC50 = 23.54 ± 0.21 and 20.05 ± 0.03 µM) and 2 (IC50 = 26.20 ± 0.32 and 21.33 ± 0.17 µM) among the series showed good inhibitory potential. The binding interaction of the most potent analogues with the active site of enzyme were examined through the molecular docking study.

Abstract This study encompasses a quick, efficient, repeatable and reproducible analytical method for simultaneous determination of Bromoxynil (3, 5-Dibromo-4-hydroxybenzonitrile) and MCPA (2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid) using RP-HPLC with UV-Detector. Bromoxynil + MCPA is one of the most selective post emergent herbicide formulations for the control of important broad leaf weeds infesting small grains (wheat, barley, oats, rye), conservation reserve program areas and grass grown for seed. Optimum weed control is achieved when Bromoxynil + MCPA is applied to actively growing weed seedlings. So, a simple, repeatable, reproducible and efficient simultaneous analytical method was developed for Bromoxynil + MCPA. The developed method was applied for the detection and quantitation of these pesticides in formulations and raw materials with excellent recoveries. It was validated according to ICH Guidelines with excellent linearity R2 = 0.992 for Bromoxynil and 0.998 for MCPA. For Bromoxynil, LOD = 1.57 mg/L and LOQ = 5.22 mg/L while for MCPA the LOD = 1.08 mg/L and LOQ = 3.62 mg/L was found. The proposed method has shown high precision (RSD %) 0.06% and 0.11% for Bromoxynil and MCPA respectively while the trueness has been calculated in terms of recovery percentage obtained as “mean value of Bromoxynil 99.53% and MCPA 100.10%” which is excellent under optimized conditions. For repeatability and reproducibility, five replicate readings of standard and sample were taken and had found within acceptable limits of relative standard deviation (RSD ≤ ± 2%). Finally, the robustness of the developed method was determined by changing flow rate and mobile phase ratios that has found within the permissible limits (% RSD NMT 1.5). So, the proposed analytical method has found to be more precise, valid and accurate at commercial scale. Graphical Abstract

We have synthesized 1,2,4-triazole bearing benzenesulfonohydrazide analogues (1–21), characterized through different spectroscopic techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HREI-MS and were evaluated against Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes. All the newly synthesized analogues showed excellent to good inhibition potential with IC50 values ranged from 0.30 ± 0.050 to 15.21 ± 0.50 µM (against AChE) and 0.70 ± 0.050 to 18.27 ± 0.60 µM (against BuChE) as compared to the standard drug Donepezil (IC50 = 2.16 ± 0.12 and 4.5 ± 0.11 µM, respectively). Analogues 2 and 4 which were found inactive against these enzymes. However, analogues 17 (IC50 = 0.30 ± 0.050 and 0.70 ± 0.050 µM) and 13 (IC50 = 0.70 ± 0.05 and 1.70 ± 0.050 µM) were found to have potent inhibitory potentials against the targeted enzymes. Structure-activity relationship was carried out which mainly depends upon the nature, position and numbers of the substitution present on phenyl rings that may be electron withdrawing/donating. Molecular docking study was carried out to know about the binding mode of interaction of the most active site of the synthesized analogues with the targeted enzymes.

In search for a potent anti-Diabetes therapeutic agent, we have synthesized a series of indole based triazole derived sulfonothioate derivatives (1–15). These compounds were structurally elucidated via different techniques like 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HREI-MS. Biological potential of all the derivatives against diabetes mellitus was contrasted with the reference drug Acarbose. In this regard, analog 7 (IC50 = 3.20 ± 0.10 and 4.20 ± 0.50 µM), 9 (IC50 = 5.10 ± 0.10 and 5.70 ± 0.30 µM) and 15 (IC50 = 3.20 ± 0.70 and 3.40 ± 0.50 µM) emerged as the leading inhibitor with captivating potential in comparison to standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 10.40 ± 0.50 and 11.50 ± 0.20 µM). Structure activity relationship determined the influence of substitution (−F, −Cl, –OH, NO2 etc.) on drug profile of the synthesized analogs. Drug profile of these compounds was also analyzed through molecular docking investigations, assessing the bonding interactions between ligands and enzymes. Furthermore, ADME analysis was performed on the promising compounds, revealing traits akin to those of pharmaceuticals.

We have developed new thiadiazole-containing Schiff base derivatives and examined their ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Among the members of series, analogue 1 showed excellent inhibitory potential (IC50 = 1.60 ± 0.20 and 2.40 ± 0.10 µM for α-amylase and α-glucosidase) as compare to standard Acarbose (IC50 = 5.30 ± 0.20 and 6.10 ± 0.10 µM). Trifluoromethyl substituted analogue-1 showed best properties because of hydrogen bond formation. Analogue 3 and 9 were also found potent against the target enzymes. All the compounds were investigated for their antibacterial and antifungal activity. Analogue 1, 3 and 9 exhibited bacterial inhibition of 42.3 %, 40.1 %, 38.2 %, and 36.5 %, respectively in contrast to streptomycin (44 %). Analogue 1, 4 and 9 exhibited excellent anti-fungal potency of 43.4, 31.9 and 34.3 %, respectively as compared to standard terinafine (50.6675 %). Scaffolds (1–12) were analyzed through HREI-mass spectrometry, 13C NMR, and 1H NMR. The functioning of active interacting residues for the enzymes was determined by molecular docking (MD), and it was found that thiadiazole bearing Schiff base derivatives could be considered suitable anti-diabetic drugs. ADMET and DFT analysis was also performed to determine stability, drug properties and electronic properties (electrophilic, nucleophilic, HOMO, LUMO) of the synthesized compounds.

In order to explore new acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibitors, a series of benzimidazole-fused-thiazole bearing Schiff base derivatives (1–16) were designed and synthesized and further their precise structures were elucidated using various spectroscopic tools including 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HREI-MS. All the synthesized derivatives demonstrated better acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibitory potential with IC50 values ranging from 0.10 ± 0.10 µM to 11.60 ± 0.40 µM (against AChE) and 0.90 ± 0.10 µM to 22.10 ± 0.60 µM (BuChE) when the results were compared with Donepezil (IC50 = 2.16 ± 0.12 µM (against AChE) & 4.5 ± 0.11 µM (against BuChE) as standard inhibitor. Specifically, the analogues 4, 5, 11, 14 and 15 were identified to be significant potent, even more active than standard drug having IC50 values of 0.80 ± 0.10, 0.50 ± 0.10, 0.60 ± 0.10, 0.10 ± 0.10, 0.10 ± 0.10 µM (against AChE) and 2.40 ± 0.10, 1.10 ± 0.10, 1.30 ± 0.10, 0.90 ± 0.10 & 0.80 ± 0.10 µM (against BuChE) respectively. The structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies were carried out for all synthesized derivatives based on substitution pattern around aryl ring. Furthermore, the molecular docking approach was developed to explore the binding mode of interactions between most active scaffolds and active sites of targeted acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes.

In this approach, fused triazole thiazole derivatives (1–14) were synthesized and designed as dual inhibitors of AChE and BuChE which exhibit promising inhibitory activity to cure one of the progressive disorders, Alzheimer’s disease. Different spectroscopic techniques (13C NMR, 1H NMR and HREI-MS) were employed for the synthetic confirmations of all the derivatives. Using the standard drug donepezil (IC50 = 10.60 ± 0.20 for AChE and 11.80 ± 0.49 µM for BuChE). All the analogues in the current series showed a wide range of inhibitory potentials such as (IC50 = 7.20 ± 0.10 to 17.50 ± 0.10 µM for AChE and IC50 = 8.10 ± 0.20 to 18.20 ± 0.10 µM for BuChE). The nature, number and position of the attached substituents in the phenyl ring greatly influenced the inhibitory activity of the current analogues in the series. However, Analogue 4 with IC50 values (7.20 ± 0.10, 8.10 ± 0.20 µM) showed immense potency due to para substituted tri-fluoro methyl moiety. Molecular docking studies and ADME analysis was also conducted for the excellent binding interactions with target enzymes and drug like properties of the potent analogues.

Hybrid molecules based on the 1,3,4-thiadiazole were always the choice of different researchers due to their significant application in medicinal as well as pharmaceutical application. In the present study, twenty analogs of 1,3,4-thiadiazole-bearing thiosemicarbazide moiety (1–20) were synthesized and screened for their anti-diabetic profile. The synthesized compounds were spectroscopically characterized through different spectroscopic techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HREI-MS. Comparing the whole set of afforded compounds to the standard glimepiride drugs (16.01 ± 0.02 μM), the inhibition profiles against α-amylase ranged from 21.02 ± 0.08 to 54.08 ± 0.04 μM. Comparing synthetic analogs to normal glimepiride (IC50 = 14.06 ± 0.05 μM), the range of α-glucosidase activity was likewise variable, ranging from 18.04 ± 0.07 μM to IC50 = 51.05 ± 0.03 μM (against α-glucosidase). Compound 19 demonstrated high potency among the produced analogs since it had both ortho-nitro substitution at the aryl ring. The pattern of substitutions around the aryl ring was used for all analogs to determine the structure–activity relationship. In addition, a molecular docking study was conducted on the potent analogs to examine the interactions between the active residues of the targeted enzymes with the synthesized compound. The synthesized molecule showed different types of interactions with amino acid. The outcome demonstrates that these compounds provide several essential interactions with the active sites of enzymes, hence strengthening their enzymatic activity for the future prediction as drug competitors.

The present work describes the synthetic procedure of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives (1–14) synthesized efficiently in a single step reaction. Basic skeleton confirmation was achieved through different characterization approaches, such as nuclear magnetic resonance(1HNMR and13CNMR) and high-resolution electron ionization mass spectrometry(HREI-MS). In vitro biological assessment of these scaffolds as anti-urease and anti-cancer agents was analyzed in presence of their standard compounds thiourea (IC50 = 9.30 ± 0.20 µM)and Tetrandrine (IC50 = 11.70 ± 0.10 µM), respectively. Inhibition ranges were observed for all scaffolds with IC50 = 2.10 ± 0.20–––37.40 ± 1.10 µM and IC50 = 4.10 ± 0.10–––39.90 ± 0.20 µM, respectively. Among the screened, the potent behavior were shown by scaffolds 3 (IC50 = 2.10 ± 0.20 and 4.10 ± 0.10 µM), 4(IC50 = 3.20 ± 1.10 and 5.20 ± 0.20 µM), 5(IC50 = 4.20 ± 0.30 and 5.60 ± 0.10 µM), 13(IC50 = 5.80 ± 1.10 and 5.90 ± 0.10 µM)and 14(IC50 = 4.30 ± 1.20 and 6.10 ± 1.20 µM).These analogs show the excellent inhibition owing to the spellbinding reactivity of –CF3, −F, −Cl and –OH moieties, which decelerate enzyme potential via effective binding between drug molecule and enzyme. These compounds were further investigated by means of molecular docking studies which explore the binding interaction of ligand within the binding pockets of enzymes. In this regard, excellent results were found in both the activity profiles of these scaffolds. Additionally, ADMET investigations also strengthen the drug profile of the potent compounds.

The current study addressed the synthesis of thiazole-based thiazolidinone derivatives (1–18) using stepwise reaction processes, and their structure was confirmed using various characterization techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HREI-MS. Furthermore, the biological features of these analogues as anti-cancer drugs against human cancer cell lines (HCC78 and H3122) were identified. Their inhibitory potentials were determined using the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (MIC50) in the presence of their standard drugs Tetrandrineb (IC50 = 10.70 ± 0.30 µM), respectively. Structure activity relationship (SAR) was established for all the synthesized scaffolds and compared their inhibitory potentials with standard, in which scaffolds 1 (IC50 = 5.20 ± 0.40 µM), 2 (IC50 = 4.10 ± 0.20 µM), 3 (IC50 = 6.30 ± 0.20 µM), 4 (IC50 = 8.90 ± 0.10 µM), 6 (IC50 = 8.10 ± 0.20 µM), 7 (IC50 = 8.70 ± 0.10 µM), 8 (IC50 = 3.90 ± 0.30 µM), 9 (IC50 = 2.10 ± 0.20 µM), 10 (IC50 = 3.30 ± 0.20 µM) and 16 (IC50 = 8.90 ± 0.20 µM) exhibited the most influential activity. These compounds were subsequently examined using molecular docking experiments, which evaluate the binding interactions of ligands with enzyme active sites.

Alzheimer's dementia (AD), the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder adversely affecting elderly citizens worldwide, is an incurable disorder with no effective medication found till date. Taking into account the seriousness of this issue, imidazopyridine-based benzothiazole-oxadiazole hybrid derivatives were synthesized as anti-Alzheimer's agents. The efficacy of these scaffolds was compared with the standard Donepezil (IC50 = 14.47 ± 1.20 μM for AChE and 19.90 ± 2.40 μM for BuChE). All the novel scaffolds exhibited biological activity covering a range of IC50 = 6.70 ± 1.65 μM and 41.65 ± 7.20 μM for AChE and 6.40 ± 1.80 μM for AChE and 44.65 ± 7.40 μM for BuChE. Analog 6p having IC50 = 6.70 ± 1.65 μM for AChE and 6.40 ± 1.80 μM for BuChE was found as the lead candidate of the series with maximum inhibition due to presence of small sized and highly electronegative fluoro moieties, inhibiting the enzymes through effective hydrogen bonds. These effective interactions were also studied in molecular docking investigations of the lead compounds. Furthermore, ADME analysis conducted in this study assisted the drug likeness of the potent analogs. Synthetic and structural confirmation of the hybrid derivatives was achieved through 13C NMR, 1H NMR and HREI-MS.

Background: Famous synthetic pharmacophores like Filgotinib, Dapiprazole, and Trazodone have Triazolopyridine as their primary building element. It has become more well-known in medicinal chemistry, to which its broad-spectrum impact may be attributed. Objective: The derivatization of the triazolopyridine molecule has been widely discussed in several scientific articles, focusing on its biological and pharmacological properties. As lead compounds for developing new drugs, many analogues of Triazolopyridine have been found. This article summarizes and discusses the literature surrounding the synthesis and biological evaluation of the triazolopyridine framework. Methods: Relevant keywords were used to identify relevant published literature from all relevant databases, including SciFinder, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Supplementary relevant literature bibliographies were also searched to locate linked reports. Results: Step-by-step explanations of the synthetic approaches to Triazolopyridine-based ring systems were found in the literature. All Triazolopyridine derivative's pharmacological activities were enumerated according to their targets, and a detailed structure–activity link was created. Conclusion: The current review highlights various synthetic techniques for fabricating the triazolopyridine framework and its uses across several medical chemistry fields. The wide range of biological effects of compounds with the triazolopyridine skeleton, including those that are antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antitubercular, analgesic, anticancer, and antidepressant, make them crucial in the process of developing new drugs and so on. Despite extensive research, the structure-based drug design technique can create new, effective pharmacophores.

Hybrid analogs containing molecules are always the choice of different synthetic researcher due to their diverse biological applications and significantly more efficient. Heterocyclic being a good inhibitors against varied disease are most commonly used in drug designing and development. The current study also addressed the synthesis of pyrimidine-based thiazolidinone derivatives (1–13) using stepwise processes and their structure was confirmed using various characterization techniques such as 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HREI-MS. Furthermore, the biological significances of the synthesized scaffolds were also explored and proved to be as anti-urease and anti-cancer moieties. Their inhibitory potentials were determined using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in the presence of their standard drugs, Thiourea (IC50 = 8.20 ± 0.20 µM) and Tetrandrineb (IC50 = 12.30 ± 0.10 µM) respectively. Structure activity relationship (SAR) was established for all the synthesized scaffolds and compared their inhibitory potentials in which scaffolds 3 (IC50 = 2.30 ± 0.30 and 3.20 ± 0.50 µM), 6 (IC50 = 3.10 ± 0.20 and 6.20 ± 0.10 µM), 7 (IC50 = 3.20 ± 0.20 and 3.80 ± 0.30 µM) and 10 (IC50 = 4.20 ± 0.20 and 5.10 ± 0.30 µM) exhibited the most influential activity. These compounds were subsequently examined using molecular docking experiments, which evaluate the binding interaction of ligands with enzyme active sites.

Climate changes and poor soil nutrient profiles in sub-tropics are determinant factors to estimate crop productivity. This study aims to evaluate the impact of phytohormones, e.g., indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA3), on mung bean yield, seed nutritional profile, and soil N availability in the sub-tropical region of Pakistan. The mung bean plants were treated with three levels (0, 30, and 60 mg L−1) of IAA and GA3 individually and/or in combination using a hydraulic sprayer. The amendments were applied in the flowering stage (approximately 25 days after germination) in a randomized complete block design. The results revealed that the 60 mg L−1 concentration of IAA and GA3 led to significant changes in the growth and yield traits compared to non-treated plants. For example, GA3 positively influenced the biological yield (35.0%), total carbohydrate (7.0%), protein (16.0%), and nitrogen (14.0%) contents in mung bean seeds, compared to the control (CK). Additionally, the combined foliar treatment of IAA and GA3 (IAA2 + GA2) displayed a much stronger influence on yield attributes, such as the number of pods by 66.0%, pods’ weights by 142.0%, and seed yield by 106.5%, compared with the CK. Mung bean plants showed a significant improvement in leaf photosynthetic pigments under a higher level (60 mg L−1) of sole and combined treatments of IAA and GA3. Moreover, except abscisic acid, the endogenous concentration of IAA, GA3, and zeatin was enhanced by 193.0%, 67.0%, and 175.0% after the combined application of IAA and GA3 (IAA2 + GA2) compared to the CK treatment. In addition, soil N availability was increased by 72.8% under the IAA2 treatment and 61.5% under IAA2 + GA2, respectively, compared with the control plot. It was concluded that the combined treatment of IAA and GA3 (IAA2 + GA2) followed by the sole application of GA3 and IAA at a 60 mg L−1 concentration were most effective treatments to improve the morpho-physiology and nutrient profile of mung beans; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms need to be explored further.

Soil contamination with organic contaminants and various heavy metals has become a global environmental concern. Biochar application for the remediation of polluted soils may render a novel solution to soil contamination issues. However, the complexity of the decontaminating mechanisms and the real environment significantly influences the preparation and large-scale application of biochar for soil ramification. This review paper highlights the utilization of biochar in immobilizing and eliminating the heavy metals and organic pollutants from contaminated soils and factors affecting the remediation efficacy of biochar. Furthermore, the risks related to biochar application in unpolluted agricultural soils are also debated. Biochar production conditions (pyrolysis temperature, feedstock type, and residence time) and the application rate greatly influence the biochar performance in remediating the contaminated soils. Biochars prepared at high temperatures (800 °C) contained more porosity and specific surface area, thus offering more adsorption potential. The redox and electrostatic adsorption contributed more to the adsorption of oxyanions, whereas ion exchange, complexation, and precipitation were mainly involved in the adsorption of cations. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) produced during biochar pyrolysis induce negative impacts on soil alga, microbes, and plants. A careful selection of unpolluted feedstock and its compatibility with carbonization technology having suitable operating conditions is essential to avoid these impurities. It would help to prepare a specific biochar with desired features to target a particular pollutant at a specific site. This review provided explicit knowledge for developing a cost-effective, environment-friendly specific biochar, which could be used to decontaminate targeted polluted soils at a large scale. Furthermore, future study directions are also described to ensure a sustainable and safe application of biochar as a soil improver for the reclamation of polluted soils.

Drought is the main abiotic stress that severely reduces wheat yield across the globe. To cope up this situation, use of organic amendments is the best option. Biochar is an organic soil amendment that is used to improve soil carbon, organic contents, improve water holding capacity of soil, enhance soil fertility and maintain desired soil. Present study was carried out under semi-arid climatic conditions to mitigate the adverse effects of drought at critical wheat growth stages i.e., tillering (DTS), flowering (DFS) and grain filling stage (DGFS) by using three biochar treatments viz. B0 = Control, B1 = 27.88 g kg−1 and B2 = 37.18 g kg−1. Results revealed that drought stress negatively affected the growth and yield attributes of wheat at all critical growth stages, while, grain filling stage was found the most sensitive stage resulted severe yield reduction. However, biochar application significantly mitigated the detrimental effects of drought by improving number of fertile tillers (19.50%), spike length (6.52%), number of grains per spike (3.07%), thousand grain weight (6.42%), biological (9.43%) and economic yield (13.92%) as compared to control treatment. Moreover, biochar significantly improved water use efficiency and physiological attributes of drought stressed wheat. Principal component analysis linked different scales of study and demonstrated the potential of physio-biochemical traits to explain the wheat yield variations under drought condition with response to biochar application. In crux, biochar application (37.18 g kg−1) can be used as an effective stratagem to achieve improved wheat grain yield through mitigating the adverse effects of drought stress.

Climate change significantly affects plant growth and productivity by causing different biotic and abiotic stresses to plants. Among the different abiotic stresses, at the top of the list are salinity, drought, temperature extremes, heavy metals and nutrient imbalances, which contribute to large yield losses of crops in various parts of the world, thereby leading to food insecurity issues. In the quest to improve plants’ abiotic stress tolerance, many promising techniques are being investigated. These include the use of nanoparticles, which have been shown to have a positive effect on plant performance under stress conditions. Nanoparticles can be used to deliver nutrients to plants, overcome plant diseases and pathogens, and sense and monitor trace elements that are present in soil by absorbing their signals. A better understanding of the mechanisms of nanoparticles that assist plants to cope with abiotic stresses will help towards the development of more long-term strategies against these stresses. However, the intensity of the challenge also warrants more immediate approaches to mitigate these stresses and enhance crop production in the short term. Therefore, this review provides an update of the responses (physiological, biochemical and molecular) of plants affected by nanoparticles under abiotic stress, and potentially effective strategies to enhance production. Taking into consideration all aspects, this review is intended to help researchers from different fields, such as plant science and nanoscience, to better understand possible innovative approaches to deal with abiotic stresses in agriculture.