Innovative Approaches to Combat Plant Pathogens Through Rhizosphere Engineering with Metal Nanoparticles
摘要
Nanotechnology research has dramatically increased manifold in the last decade. Nanoparticles (NPs) possess distinct characteristics with a large surface area-to-volume ratio and small size (less than 100 nm). Several factors affected the qualities and applications of nanoparticles, including the physical features and synthesis approaches, such as size and shape. The rhizosphere is made up of soil, microbes, and plants that can be altered in numerous ways to enhance the effectiveness of inoculants. The targeted manipulation of the root-soil interface is known as rhizosphere engineering. Rhizosphere engineering using MNPs has emerged as an effective method for controlling plant pathogens while improving plant and soil health. It may provide a more favorable environment for plant growth by altering the composition and activity of microbial communities, modifying root exudation patterns, or beneficial organisms, such as endophytes, bio stimulants, and nanomaterials. Rhizosphere engineering, including nanomaterials like MNPs, is proposed as a promising and sustainable approach to improve plant resilience. MNPs can increase plant systemic resistance and boost the absorption of nutrients and tolerate different stresses. Most MNPs such as zinc, silver, iron, and copper exhibit distinct antimicrobial activity, allowing specific inhibition of pathogenic organisms without interfering with beneficial microbial communities. MNPs show potent antimicrobial action through numerous mechanisms, including the development of reactive oxygen species, membrane disruption, inhibition of enzyme activity, regulated ion release, or cell death. Metal NPs can be employed via root dipping, transplant drench, seed coating, foliar spray, and organic amendments. Such techniques enhance root-nanoparticle interaction and microbial activity and manage the soil-borne pathogens. This chapter focuses on the rhizosphere engineering using metal nanoparticles, their antimicrobial mechanism, and application methods. Future innovations should emphasize producing biodegradable and environmentally sustainable nanomaterials for safe and long-term use across industries.