Iodine biofortification of red radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cultivating on hydroponic system

Iodine is a crucial micronutrient for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development, particularly influencing cognitive and physical health in early life stages. Traditional approaches like iodized salt have limitations, especially in reaching remote populations, prompting interest in the biofortification of crops as a sustainable solution to enhance iodine intake. The study examined the physiological characteristics, biomass production, iodine concentration variations, and key nutritional components of red radish (Raphanus sativus) plants. Conducted in a hydroponic system, the research utilized varying concentrations of iodine in the form of potassium iodide (KI) and potassium iodate (KIO₃), ranging from 0.01 to 1.0 mg I/L. The findings revealed that iodine supplementation did not significantly impact photosynthetic efficiency or pigment levels; however, it did enhance biomass production, particularly in the swollen taproot, which yielded the highest biomass compared to other plant parts. Iodide treatment was effective only at lower concentrations, while iodate treatment showed positive effects at higher concentrations (0.05 to 0.5 mg/L). Additionally, increased iodine concentrations in the nutrient solutions resulted in elevated iodine levels across all plant parts, with iodide treatment demonstrating 2-10 times greater efficiency than iodate treatment. The type of iodine applied influenced the transport of essential elements differently