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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 have developed tiny copper particles using environmentally friendly methods with beneficial fungi to fight gray mold, a devastating disease in vineyards and crops. These green-synthesized nanoparticles were more effective at stopping the fungus than commercial fungicides currently in use. The research shows this approach could be a sustainable alternative that reduces harmful chemicals used in agriculture while protecting crops more effectively.

Background

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungal plant pathogen causing gray mold disease affecting crops of economic importance worldwide. The repeated application of fungicides has resulted in the emergence of resistant fungal populations. Green-synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles are considered a feasible alternative that reduces environmentally toxic waste generation.

Objective

This study evaluated the antifungal activity of green-synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) using Trichoderma asperellum and Trichoderma ghanense supernatants against B. cinerea, the causal agent of gray mold disease.

Results

All four CuONP formulations displayed antifungal properties, with Tg2 being most effective, achieving 100% inhibition at 160 μg/mL against laboratory strain and 98.33% at 170 μg/mL against field-isolated strain. The Tg2 formulation nanoparticles were quasi-spherical, ranging from 1 to 2.7 nm in size. Tg2 demonstrated greater efficacy than commercial fungicide NORDOX 75W, which showed no inhibitory effect.

Conclusion

Green-synthesized CuONPs using Trichoderma supernatants offer a sustainable and effective alternative for managing gray mold disease, with the Tg2 formulation showing superior antifungal activity compared to conventional copper-based fungicides while reducing environmental impact and copper accumulation in plant tissues.
  • Published in:Antibiotics (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41301594
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