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Chitosan-mediated copper nanohybrid attenuates the virulence of a necrotrophic fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina

Summary

Researchers developed tiny copper particles coated with chitosan (a natural compound from shellfish) that effectively kill a destructive fungus called Macrophomina phaseolina, which damages hundreds of plant species worldwide. When used at the right concentration, these nanoparticles completely stopped the fungus from growing while causing minimal damage to plants. This innovation offers a promising natural alternative to traditional chemical fungicides for protecting crops while being more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Background

Macrophomina phaseolina is a soil-borne fungal pathogen affecting approximately 700 plant species across over 100 families, causing stem rot, charcoal rot, and seedling blight with yield losses up to 100%. Existing disease management strategies have proven largely ineffective against this resilient pathogen. Chitosan-copper nanoparticles represent a novel approach for antifungal control in sustainable agriculture.

Objective

This study aimed to synthesize and characterize chitosan-copper nanoparticles (Ch-CuNPs) and evaluate their antifungal efficacy against M. phaseolina through in vitro assays. The research sought to elucidate the mechanisms of action and interaction between Ch-CuNPs and the fungal pathogen.

Results

Ch-CuNPs showed an absorption peak at 572 nm with average particle size of 87-89 nm and face-centered cubic structure. Complete growth inhibition of M. phaseolina was achieved at 0.12-0.15% concentrations, with 18-71% inhibition at lower concentrations. Ch-CuNPs altered fungal morphology, enzyme activities, and copper uptake (peak 29.9% at 0.03%), with FTIR analysis revealing molecular interactions and structural changes in treated fungal biomass.

Conclusion

Ch-CuNPs demonstrated significant antifungal activity against M. phaseolina through a dual-action mechanism: chitosan enhanced nanoparticle adhesion to fungal cell walls while copper induced oxidative stress. The findings suggest Ch-CuNPs have promising potential as an effective biofungicide and sustainable alternative to traditional chemical fungicides for crop protection.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:In vitro experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 39369110, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-74949-6
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