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Green Synthesized Copper-Oxide Nanoparticles Exhibit Antifungal Activity Against Botrytis cinerea, the Causal Agent of the Gray Mold Disease

Summary

Scientists developed tiny copper oxide particles using fungi to create a natural fungicide that fights gray mold, a disease that damages grapes and other crops worldwide. These bio-based nanoparticles work better than conventional copper fungicides, offering farmers a more environmentally friendly option. However, the particles showed some toxicity to human cells in laboratory tests, suggesting they need careful handling before field use.

Background

Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold disease, responsible for over USD 100 billion in annual losses worldwide. Repeated fungicide application has led to fungal resistance, necessitating alternative control strategies. Copper oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized through green methods offer a sustainable alternative to conventional fungicides.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal activity of green-synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized using Trichoderma asperellum and Trichoderma ghanense supernatants against B. cinerea. To characterize the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles and assess their biocompatibility with mammalian cells.

Results

All four CuONP formulations displayed antifungal properties, with CuONPs-Tg2 being most effective, achieving 100% inhibition at 160 µg/mL against reference B. cinerea and 98.33% against field-isolated strain. The Tg2 formulation contained quasi-spherical nanoparticles ranging from 1-2.7 nm and outperformed commercial fungicide NORDOX 75W.

Conclusion

CuONPs-Tg2 demonstrates greater efficacy than commercial copper-based fungicides and offers a sustainable alternative for managing gray mold disease. The green synthesis method reduces environmental toxicity while maintaining effective antifungal properties. Future studies should address biocompatibility concerns before field application.
  • Published in:Antibiotics (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental In Vitro Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41301594; DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics14111099
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