Pathogen-Resilient Crops: Highlighting the Impact of AI-Driven Nanotechnology

Climate change is accelerating the emergence and spread of plant pathogens, threatening global food security and ecosystem stability. The development of pathogen-resilient crops is therefore essential to meet the growing demand for sustainable agricultural systems. This chapter explores how the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and nanotechnology can revolutionize plant protection by enabling early detection, intelligent intervention, and adaptive disease management. Nanotechnology offers a powerful toolbox for the delivery of nanoscale materials with antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Engineered nanoparticles, ranging from metallic to polymeric and carbon-based forms, can directly inhibit pathogens or enhance plant innate immunity. Meanwhile, AI technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, and predictive modeling are transforming how we diagnose plant diseases, analyze big data, and optimize agricultural decisions. When integrated, AI-driven nanotechnology enables the development of smart nanosensors capable of detecting pathogens in real time, intelligent delivery systems that release nano-biopesticides in response to biotic signals, and adaptive systems that learn and improve disease control strategies over time. This chapter reviews the current state of AI-nanotech innovations applied to phytopathology, presents successful case studies, and analyzes their potential in the context of climate-smart agriculture. The chapter concludes by addressing key challenges, including biosafety, environmental impact, regulatory frameworks, and ethical considerations. It advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to develop scalable, low-risk, and accessible solutions that strengthen crop resilience while supporting ecological sustainability.