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Fungal-derived ZnO nanoparticles functionalized with riboflavin and UDP-GlcNAc exhibit potent nematicidal activity against M. incognita

Summary

Scientists used a nematode-trapping fungus to create tiny zinc oxide particles that are highly toxic to root-knot nematodes, which damage crops worldwide. These nanoparticles are naturally coated with beneficial fungal compounds like riboflavin that enhance their pest-killing ability. The particles killed over 94% of nematodes in laboratory tests, offering a greener alternative to harsh chemical pesticides currently used in farming.

Background

Root-knot nematodes cause significant agricultural crop losses worldwide. Current nematicides are often chemical, non-specific and environmentally harmful. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using nematophagous fungi offers a sustainable alternative for pest management.

Objective

To synthesize and characterize zinc oxide nanoparticles using the nematophagous fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora and evaluate their nematicidal efficacy against Meloidogyne incognita. The study aims to identify fungal metabolites on the nanoparticle surface and elucidate their mechanisms of action against root-knot nematodes.

Results

Synthesis yielded nanoscale ZnO particles (29.45-71.30 nm) with hexagonal wurtzite crystallinity. ZnO nanoparticles achieved 94.8% juvenile mortality at 200 µg/mL after 72 hours, significantly higher than fungal extract alone. Metabolomic analysis identified riboflavin and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine as key surface-bound metabolites with strong binding affinities to nematode target proteins.

Conclusion

A. oligospora-mediated ZnO nanoparticles represent a promising metabolite-enriched nano-biocomposite with enhanced nematicidal efficacy through dual disruption of neural signaling and cuticle biosynthesis. This eco-friendly approach offers a sustainable alternative to chemical nematicides for crop protection.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41184368, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-22170-4
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