Nanoparticles for Disease Resistance in Crops

Disease resistance is a critical component of stable crop production and global food security. Plant pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses pose a constant threat to agricultural sustainability, often resulting in significant global economic losses. Traditional disease control methods gradually limited due to their environmental impact, potential health risks, and the emergence of resistant pathogen strains. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier in agricultural innovation to address several challenges. Nanoparticles’ unique physical and chemical properties, such as their nanoscale size, large surface area, and ability to react, make it possible to create disease management strategies that are very specific and effective. These nano-enabled methods could help crops be more resistant to damage while reducing the need for traditional agrochemicals. This chapter explores the role of nanotechnology in improving disease resistance in crops. It provides an overview of current applications and explains the mechanisms by which nanoparticles interact with plant-pathogen systems. It also essentially evaluates their benefits and limitations. Finally, it discusses future directions for incorporating nanotechnology into sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.