The Physiological Impacts of Nanoparticle Size, Morphology, and Concentration on the Phytopathogens Causing Plant Biotic Stress

This chapter focuses on the mechanisms of nanoparticles (NPs) against various phytopathogens (PHPs) responsible for plant biotic stress. Several environmental factors negatively affect plants, leading to a significant decline in crop productivity. These factors include biotic and abiotic stresses. Plant biotic stress is caused by diverse PHPs, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, oomycetes, and parasitic plants. NPs have the potential to reduce the infection of PHPs by using lower doses and exhibiting higher efficiency than traditional pesticides. Additionally, NPs, as ultra-small particles, can target viral particles, which may provide an effective approach to controlling plant viruses. Therefore, the use of nanotechnology as an advanced approach to combat the growth of PHPs has attracted researchers’ interest. However, a series of studies is required to evaluate the physiological impacts of NPs on PHPs and plants and the potential toxicity of these particles to human health in advance. PHPs attack plants through various mechanisms and cause diseases in leaves, roots, stems, fruits, and vascular systems. In this regard, the effects of nanoparticle size, morphology, and concentration on the growth of PHPs are discussed in this chapter to review the best potential applications of nanotechnology as a sustainable means of managing plant biotic stress.