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Bioinspired nano-architected chitosan-β-glucan nanocomposite as an elicitor for disease management sustainably

Summary

Scientists created tiny engineered particles made from chitosan and β-glucan that act like alarm signals to boost plants’ natural defenses against a destructive soil fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. These nano-particles are extremely effective at just 220-240 parts per million, far more powerful than conventional fungicides which require 2000 ppm. The particles work by damaging the fungus’s cells directly while also triggering the plant’s immune system, offering farmers a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.

Background

Soil-borne pathogen Sclerotium rolfsii affects over 500 crops causing substantial economic losses. Bio-based nanomaterials represent a promising alternative to synthetic pesticides for sustainable crop protection. This study developed chitosan-β-glucan nanocomposites designed to bio-mimic Microbe/Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (M/PAMPs) for enhanced immune stimulation in plants.

Objective

To develop and characterize chitosan-yeast β-glucan (C-YB) and chitosan-S. rolfsii β-glucan (C-SB) nanocomposites as elicitors for sustainable disease management of S. rolfsii in sugarbeet. The study aimed to evaluate their antifungal efficacy and mechanisms of action compared to chitosan nanoparticles and chemical fungicides.

Results

C-YB and C-SB nanocomposites measured 96.81 nm and 98.66 nm respectively and showed 100% S. rolfsii inhibition at 220 ppm and 240 ppm concentrations, significantly outperforming chitosan nanoparticles (600 ppm) and chemical fungicides (2000 ppm). IC50 values were 120.15 and 189.79 ppm for C-YB and C-SB respectively. Microscopic analysis revealed malformations and cellular disorganization in S. rolfsii leading to cell death.

Conclusion

The bioinspired chitosan-β-glucan nanocomposites demonstrate superior antifungal efficacy and represent a promising sustainable alternative for S. rolfsii management in sugarbeet and potentially other crops. These bioengineered nanocomposites orchestrate synergistic immune responses and hold versatile applications across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and industrial fields while supporting the bio-circular economy.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMC12484859, PMID: 41028093, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-13615-x
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