Hydrogen nanobubbles and oxidative windows: Investigating how varying hydrogen concentrations influence seed germination and stress defense

The hydrogen molecule can effectively regulate plant growth and development, improving plant resistance to abiotic stresses. However, studies regarding the optimal concentration of hydrogen and the associated mechanisms of action in organisms are lacking. This study showed that the maximum germination rate of radish seeds decreased from 90 % to 50 % under the stress of cadmium ions (Cd2+), and hydrogen nanobubble (NB) water significantly alleviated the stress effect of Cd2+ on radish seed germination. A hydrogen concentration of 0.8 ppm had the best effect, reducing Cd2+ accumulation in radish seeds by 63.23 % and increasing the maximum germination rate from 50 % to 65 %. At concentrations exceeding 1.2 ppm, the beneficial effect of hydrogen was weakened or even reversed. Consequently, we integrated the concept of the oxidative window into a REDOX balance model and demonstrated that an appropriate hydrogen concentration can effectively maintain the REDOX state within organisms. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that hydrogen NB water modulated Cd2+ absorption and accumulation in seeds by regulating cell wall components, alleviating oxidative stress through oxidoreductase activity, and enhancing nutrient synthesis and metabolism. This collectively alleviated the inhibitory effect of Cd2+ on seed germination. This study is helpful for further understanding the effect of hydrogen concentration on the REDOX balance of seed germination, providing a theoretical basis for selecting hydrogen concentration to improve its effectiveness in agricultural fields. [Display omitted] •Hydrogen NB water alleviates Cd toxicity on radish seed germination.•Hydrogen NB water inhibits Cd accumulation during the rapid water absorption stage.•Oxidative window effect occurs during seed germination.•Hydrogen NB water alleviates Cd toxicity by strengthening cell walls and improving antioxidant capacity.