Role of Microbial Nanoparticles in Plant Diseases

Author: Prashanth Kumar A.

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Abstract

Severe plant diseases make food scarcity worse, which has increased interest in environmentally friendly ways to control these diseases. Nanotechnology has gained significant attention in agriculture, with microorganisms being potential candidates for synthesizing metallic nanoparticles. Microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and photosynthetic microorganisms can control these nanoparticles. Bacteria can generate extracellular enzymes that reduce metal ions into nanoparticles, while fungi are economically efficient and adaptable. Microalgae, photosynthetic microorganisms can convert metal ions into nanoparticles using internal or extracellular enzymes, making copper nanoparticles a viable and environmentally sustainable solution. Nanoparticles can improve disease control and biocidal capabilities by causing DNA damage and cell death in pathogens and stimulating systemic resistance in plants. Green silver nanoparticles were produced using B. rhodesiae, while bio-engineered chitosan-magnesium nanocomposites reduced biomass in Alternaria solani in 7 days. Biogenic nanoparticles can indirectly manage plant diseases by enhancing growth and productivity, inhibiting pathogen proliferation and stimulating the generation of reactive oxygen species and plant hormones, which are crucial for plant defense mechanisms against pathogens.

Keywords

Diseases, nanoparticles, bacteria, fungi and photosynthetic microorganisms

Conclusion

Microorganism-derived nanoparticles (NPs) can mitigate drawbacks of conventional chemical-based pesticides by selectively targeting specific diseases, reducing pesticide usage and environmental damage. However, there are challenges in optimizing synthesis, ensuring stability and bioavailability, and transporting NPs to specific areas. Addressing ecological and safety concerns is crucial. Pioneering efforts are needed to optimize biological synthesis methods, promote environmentally sustainable practices, facilitate efficient upscaling processes, and enhance cost-effectiveness. Integrating NPs with precision agriculture and gene editing can help farmers maximize pesticide efficacy. Establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework and conducting field experiments to assess the effectiveness of nanoparticle impacts in real agricultural settings is essential. Further research is needed to fully unlock the potential of microbe-mediated nanoparticles and contribute to sustainable agricultural systems.

References

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How to cite this article

Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Role of Microbial Nanoparticles in Plant Diseases. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1723-1729.