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Synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Trichoderma harzianum and its bio-efficacy on Alternaria brassicae

Summary

Scientists have developed an eco-friendly way to create zinc oxide nanoparticles using a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma harzianum. These nanoparticles effectively kill Alternaria brassicae, a fungus that damages mustard crops and can reduce yields by up to 57%. The nanoparticles work better and at lower doses than traditional chemical fungicides, making them a promising sustainable solution for farmers. This represents an important advancement in protecting crops without harming the environment.

Background

Chemical fungicides pose environmental and sustainability concerns for crop protection. Microbe-mediated synthesis of metal nanoparticles offers a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative for plant disease management. Alternaria blight caused by Alternaria brassicae is a significant foliar disease affecting mustard crops, causing yield losses of 32-57%.

Objective

This study investigates the mycosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Trichoderma harzianum culture filtrate and evaluates their antifungal efficacy against Alternaria brassicae. The research aims to develop an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional fungicides for disease management.

Results

M-ZnO NPs showed hexagonal crystal structure with average size of 29 nm and hydrodynamic size of 50.79 nm with -17.49 mV zeta potential. M-ZnO NPs inhibited A. brassicae mycelial growth by 91.48% at 200 μg/mL, superior to chemically synthesized ZnO NPs (79.62%) and mancozeb (82.96%). Treatment induced ROS generation, membrane damage, and increased stress enzyme activity (SOD and CAT).

Conclusion

Mycogenic-ZnO nanoparticles synthesized with T. harzianum demonstrate superior antifungal activity at lower doses compared to chemical alternatives and conventional fungicides. These M-ZnO NPs represent a promising sustainable alternative to traditional fungicides for controlling Alternaria blight in mustard without environmental harm.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40018670
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