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Antifungal mechanism of nanosilver biosynthesized with Trichoderma longibrachiatum and its potential to control muskmelon Fusarium wilt

Summary

Researchers created tiny silver particles using a beneficial fungus to fight a serious disease that damages muskmelon plants. At low doses, these silver nanoparticles killed the disease-causing fungus while actually helping the melon plants grow better and germinate faster. The silver particles work by damaging the fungus’s cell structure and triggering harmful reactive oxygen species inside fungal cells, ultimately destroying them.

Background

Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis causes destructive muskmelon wilt disease leading to significant economic losses. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have strong antimicrobial properties without developing drug resistance, offering new possibilities for disease prevention. This study investigated AgNPs biosynthesized with Trichoderma longibrachiatum for controlling muskmelon Fusarium wilt.

Objective

To assess the effects of biosynthesized AgNPs on F. oxysporum growth, control efficacy on muskmelon Fusarium wilt disease, and elucidate the antifungal mechanisms of AgNPs through cellular and biochemical analysis.

Results

AgNPs at 100-200 mg/L inhibited F. oxysporum growth while 25 mg/L promoted muskmelon seed germination and seedling growth, reducing Fusarium wilt incidence. TEM revealed cell wall and membrane damage with vacuole accumulation. AgNPs induced ROS production within 6 hours, causing MDA accumulation and affecting protective enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, POD).

Conclusion

Biosynthesized AgNPs effectively inhibit F. oxysporum through cell structure damage and metabolic disruption while promoting plant growth at low concentrations. The antifungal mechanism involves ROS generation, oxidative stress, and protective enzyme modulation, providing a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for muskmelon disease management.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-024-71282-w; PMID: 39215137
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