The agricultural industry is under siege from persistent fungal pathogens, with Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, commonly known as white mould, causing fatal diseases across various crops. Traditional chemical fungicides, often effective, come with considerable downsides, including toxicity and the alarming rise of resistance strains. This reality has spurred researchers to seek safer, eco-friendly alternatives. A promising avenue explored by scientists at Galala University, Egypt, focuses on nano-chitosan-coated, green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles as potential antifungal agents.
According to the study led by Mohamed M. Desouky and his colleagues, the new nanocomposite not only shows remarkable antifungal properties but also offers significant advantages for sustainable agricultural practices. The research reveals compelling evidence of the nanocomposite’s efficacy, achieving 100% inhibition of fungal growth at concentrations as low as 0.5 ppm. This finding heralds fresh hope for farmers seeking effective tools to combat S. sclerotiorum.
The green synthesis process leveraged citrus peel extracts, taking advantage of their rich composition, particularly ascorbic acid, known for its reducing properties. By employing this natural method instead of toxic chemical processes, the researchers have created nanoparticles with lower toxicity suited for organic farming.
Notably, the study's comprehensive methodologies established the characterization of selenium nanoparticles. Techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and spectroscopic analyses were pivotal to confirming the successful synthesis of these nanoparticles, whose average size ranges around 42.28 nm, showcasing excellent stability and distribution compared to those synthesized from orange peels.
Findings from antifungal tests conducted using various concentrations of the nanocomposite highlighted not just the effectiveness but also significant structural damages inflicted on the S. sclerotiorum hyphae. Scanning electron microscopy images illustrated marked abnormalities, including shrinkage and distortion, which illustrated the nanoparticles’ deleterious effects on fungus viability.
With the antifungal activity shown, the researchers assert the potential of these eco-friendly nanoparticles to serve as effective alternatives to conventional fungicides. The enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of selenium, when linked with the stabilization of chitosan, could represent both immediate and long-standing solutions within integrated pest management strategies.
“The nanocomposite exhibited 100% inhibitory activity at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.5 ppm,” noted the authors, showcasing the extraordinary potency of this innovative antimicrobial strategy. Given their beneficial attributes, these nano-chitosan-coated selenium nanoparticles could pave the way for healthier agricultural practices, promoting both plant health and environmental sustainability.
The study leaves us with optimism for the future of crop protection strategies, particularly with the rising concerns over food safety and disease resistance. With these findings, there’s tangible potential for broad application against various plant pathogenic fungi, making this research not only significant but pivotal for future studies and practices.