therapeutic action: pathogen growth inhibition

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

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.

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A super absorbent polymer containing copper to control Plenodomus tracheiphilus the causative agent of mal secco disease of lemon

Researchers developed a new gel-like material containing copper that can fight a serious fungal disease affecting lemon trees. Unlike traditional copper sprays that wash away and pollute the environment, this new material slowly releases copper directly into the plant’s water-conducting vessels where the disease-causing fungus lives. The gel absorbed water effectively and released copper ions gradually over time, showing much better results than regular copper solutions when tested on infected lemon branches.

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A tale for two roles: Root-secreted methyl ferulate inhibits P. nicotianae and enriches the rhizosphere Bacillus against black shank disease in tobacco

Tobacco plants release a natural chemical called methyl ferulate from their roots that has a powerful two-pronged defense against a devastating soil disease called black shank. First, the methyl ferulate directly kills the fungus by disrupting its energy production. Second, it attracts beneficial bacteria called Bacillus to the soil around the roots, which further fight the disease. Scientists found they could boost this defense by engineering a tobacco gene that produces more methyl ferulate, making plants much more resistant to infection. This discovery offers farmers an affordable, natural way to control soil diseases without synthetic chemicals.

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Advances of Peptides for Plant Immunity

Plant peptides are small signaling molecules that help plants defend themselves against diseases and pests. These peptides can work by directly killing pathogens or by activating the plant’s immune system. Researchers have identified over 1000 different plant peptides, and this review explains how they work and how they could be used to create disease-resistant crops and natural biopesticides.

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Rice varietal intercropping mediates resistance to rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) through core root exudates

Growing different varieties of rice together can help protect susceptible rice plants from blast disease. When resistant and susceptible rice varieties are planted together, the resistant plants release special chemicals from their roots that help the susceptible plants fight off the fungal disease. Scientists identified four key chemicals—azelaic acid, sebacic acid, betaine, and phenyl acetate—that work together to boost the immune system of susceptible rice plants and directly kill the blast fungus.

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Tackling Conifer Needle Cast and Ash Dieback with Host-Derived Microbial Antagonists Exhibiting Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

Scientists discovered beneficial bacteria living on ash and pine trees that can fight two major forest diseases: ash dieback and needle cast. These bacteria not only kill the harmful fungi but also help trees grow stronger by improving nutrient absorption. This research offers promise for protecting European forests without relying on chemical fungicides, creating a more natural and sustainable approach to forest health.

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Complete genome analysis and antimicrobial mechanism of Bacillus velezensis GX0002980 reveals its biocontrol potential against mango anthracnose disease

Researchers found a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus velezensis that can effectively fight the fungus causing brown spots on mangoes. The bacterium produces natural antibiotic compounds that kill the disease-causing fungus and can be sprayed on mangoes to keep them fresh longer during storage. This discovery offers a safer, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical fungicides for protecting the mango harvest.

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Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma Ghanense and Trichoderma Citrinoviride toward Pythium aphanidermatum

Researchers identified two native Trichoderma fungi species that can protect cucumber plants from a destructive soil disease caused by Pythium. In laboratory and greenhouse tests, these beneficial fungi blocked pathogen growth and significantly improved plant survival and growth compared to untreated plants. These findings suggest these natural fungi could replace harmful chemical fungicides for protecting cucumbers and other crops.

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Tackling Conifer Needle Cast and Ash Dieback with Host-Derived Microbial Antagonists Exhibiting Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

Scientists discovered native bacteria from European ash and Scots pine trees that can fight two destructive forest diseases: ash dieback and needle cast. These bacteria not only inhibit the disease-causing fungi but also help trees grow better by improving nutrient uptake. This natural approach offers an eco-friendly alternative to fungicide sprays for protecting forests.

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