Summary
This narrative review examines the emerging role of nanoparticles (both chemically and biologically synthesised) in crop disease management and plant health enhancement. The authors explore mechanistic pathways of nanoparticle uptake, their capacity to modulate plant immunity against pathogens, and their use as delivery vectors for bioactive molecules including nutrients and gene-silencing agents. The review critically balances agronomic potential against environmental and safety considerations, advocating for responsible innovation at the intersection of nanotechnology and sustainable agriculture.
UK applicability
The findings are primarily laboratory and mechanistic in scope, so direct applicability to UK field conditions remains unclear. However, if nanoparticle-based disease management strategies advance to field deployment, UK regulators and growers would need to address environmental persistence, soil accumulation, and regulatory approval pathways specific to UK and EU frameworks.
Key measures
Mechanisms of nanoparticle uptake; plant immune response modulation; disease control efficacy; environmental toxicity and fate; targeted delivery of nutrients, hormones, RNA interference molecules, and chemical protectants
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on how chemically and biologically synthesised nanoparticles modulate plant immunity, are taken up by crops, and can be applied for disease control. It also examines safety, environmental toxicity, fate and risks associated with nanoparticle use in agriculture.
Topic tags
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