Search Results (318)

This study examined the effects of applying silver nanoparticles (AgNPs; 0, 5 and 10 mg L⁻¹) in a hydroponic system for seven days on growth parameters and on nutrient and phytohormone concentrations in two tomato cultivars, Vengador and Rio Grande. The results indicated that AgNPs at concentrations of 5 and 10 mg L⁻¹ did not change leaf number, stem length, or fresh/dry biomass weight. In leaves of Vengador, P and K concentrations decreased, while Mg and S increased in response to AgNPs. In stems and roots, both P and K decreased. Zn concentrations increased in leaves, Mn in stems and roots. In leaves of Rio Grande, K, Mg, S, Cu and Mn concentrations increased, while P decreased in AgNP-treated plants, as compared to the control. In stems, N, S and Mn concentrations increased, but P, K, Ca, Mg and B decreased. In roots, P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, Mn and B decreased, whereas S increased. Silver was only detected in roots of plants treated with AgNPs in both cultivars under study. In leaves of Rio Grande plants, kinetin concentrations decreased with AgNPs applications. In roots of Vengador, indole-acetic acid concentrations increased with 10 mg AgNP L⁻¹; in Rio Grande, roots exhibited an increased concentration of gibberellic acid and abscisic acid in plants exposed to 5 mg AgNP L⁻¹. The evidence retrieved from this work unveils the impact of metal-based NMs on the modulation of nutrient and phytohormone concentrations in a so important food crop such as tomato. Full article

Hetero-multicomponent metal oxide catalysts are attracting increasing attention for wastewater remediation due to their tunable band structures, synergistic redox activity, and enhanced stability. This review thoroughly evaluates recent progress in the synthesis and application of such catalysts, highlighting Ti–Cu–Zn nanostructures as a representative case study. We examine synthesis approaches—including hydrothermal, biosynthesis, precipitation, and spray-based methods, with additional insight into sol–gel and other less commonly applied techniques—with emphasis on their suitability for constructing layered and multicomponent heterostructures. Mechanistic aspects of photocatalysis, Fenton and Fenton-like processes, adsorption, and electrochemical routes are discussed, with particular focus on charge separation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and pollutant-specific degradation pathways. Comparative performance metrics against antibiotics, pesticides, dyes, and fertilizers are analyzed, alongside considerations of leaching, reusability, and scale-up potential. Importantly, while significant progress has been made for organic micropollutants, applications in heavy metal remediation remain scarce, highlighting an urgent research gap. By situating Ti–Cu–Zn systems within the broader class of multicomponent catalysts, this review not only synthesizes current advances but also identifies opportunities to expand their role in sustainable wastewater management, including field deployment, regulatory compliance, and integration into decentralized treatment systems. Full article

Plant-derived biostimulants represent an innovative approach to enhancing crop productivity, resilience, and quality within sustainable agricultural systems by improving nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and plant defense mechanisms while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. However, their effectiveness is often limited by poor stability and low bioavailability. Recent advances in nanotechnology, particularly liposomal formulations, address these limitations by enhancing the stability, solubility, and delivery efficiency of bioactive plant compounds. Liposomes facilitate the penetration and systemic transport of active ingredients within plant tissues and enable controlled release at the target site, thereby increasing biostimulant efficacy. This review summarizes current knowledge on plant-derived biostimulants, their classification, nano-formulation, molecular mechanisms, and roles in mitigating abiotic and biotic stress. Special emphasis is placed on liposome-based formulations, including supercritical CO₂ extracts and nano-liposomal delivery systems, with examples such as garlic extract and the EliceVakcina^® complex. Finally, the potential of liposomal technologies in integrated crop protection and sustainable agriculture is discussed. Full article

This review examines how the integration of circular bioeconomy principles with digital technologies can drive climate change mitigation, improve resource efficiency, and facilitate sustainable biorefinery development. This highlights the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels and introduces the bio-circular economy as a regenerative model focused on biomass valorization, reuse, recycling, and biodegradability. This study compares linear, circular, and bio-circular approaches and analyzes key policy frameworks in Europe, Latin America, and Asia linked to several UN Sustainable Development Goals. A central focus is the role of digitalization, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. Examples include AI-based biomass yield prediction and biorefinery optimization, IoT-enabled real-time monitoring of material and energy flows, and blockchain technology for supply chain traceability and transparency. Applications in agricultural waste valorization, bioplastics, bioenergy, and nutraceutical extraction are also discussed in this review. Sustainability tools, such as automated life-cycle assessment (LCA) and Industry 4.0 integration, are outlined. Finally, future perspectives emphasize autonomous smart biorefineries, biotechnology–nanotechnology convergence, and international collaboration supported by open data platforms. Full article

Heavy metal (HM) contamination threatens environmental sustainability, food safety, and agricultural productivity worldwide. HM toxicity adversely affects plant growth, reducing germination rates by 20–50%, impairing seedling establishment, and inhibiting shoot and root development by 30–60% in various crops. HM disrupts key physiological processes, including photosynthesis, stomatal regulation, membrane integrity, nutrient uptake, and enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant activities. These disruptions largely result from oxidative stress, caused by the excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which damage cellular components. To counteract HM toxicity, plants deploy a complex defense network involving antioxidant enzymes, metal chelation by phytochelatins and metallothioneins, vacuolar sequestration, and symbiotic interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, which can retain 40–70% of metals in roots and reduce translocation to shoots. At the molecular level, MAPK (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase) signaling pathways, transcription factors (e.g., WRKY, MYB, bZIP, and NAC), and phytohormonal crosstalk regulate the expression of stress-responsive genes expression to enhance HM stress tolerance. Advances in nanotechnology offer promising strategies for the remediation of HM-contaminated soils and water sources (HM remediation); engineered and biogenic nanoparticles (e.g., ZnO, Fe₃O₄) improve metal immobilization, reduce bioavailability, and enhance plant growth by 15–35% under HM stresses, although excessive doses may induce phytotoxicity. Future applications of nanotechnology in HM remediation should consider nanoparticle transformation (e.g., dissolution and agglomeration) and environmentally relevant concentrations to ensure efficacy and minimize phytotoxicity. Integrating phytoremediation with nanoparticle-enabled strategies provides a sustainable approach for HM remediation. This review emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary framework linking plant science, biotechnology, and nanoscience to advance HM remediation and safeguard agricultural productivity. Full article

Yeast-derived biomolecules are redefining the boundaries of green nanotechnology. Biosurfactants, exopolysaccharides, enzymes, pigments, proteins, and organic acids—when sourced from carbohydrate-rich lignocellulosic hydrolysates—offer a molecular toolbox capable of directing, stabilizing, and functionalizing nanoparticles (NPs) with unprecedented precision. Beyond their structural diversity and intrinsic biocompatibility, these biomolecules anchor a paradigm shift: the convergence of biorefineries with nanotechnology to deliver multifunctional materials for the circular bioeconomy. This review explores: (i) the expanding portfolio of metallic and metal oxide NPs synthesized through yeast biomolecules; (ii) molecular-level mechanisms of reduction, capping, and surface tailoring that dictate NP morphology, stability, and reactivity; (iii) synergistic roles in intensifying lignocellulosic processes—from enhanced hydrolysis to catalytic upgrading; and (iv) frontier applications spanning antimicrobial coatings, regenerative packaging, precision agriculture, and environmental remediation. We highlight structure–function relationships, where amphiphilicity, charge distribution, and redox activity govern resilience under saline, acidic, and thermally harsh industrial matrices. Yet, critical bottlenecks remain: inconsistent yields, limited comparative studies, downstream recovery hurdles, and the absence of comprehensive life-cycle and toxicological evaluations. To bridge this gap, we propose a translational roadmap coupling standardized characterization with real hydrolysate testing, molecular libraries linking biomolecule chemistry to NP performance, and integrated techno-economic and environmental assessments. By aligning yeast biotechnology with nanoscience, we argue that yeast-biomolecule-driven nanoplatforms are not merely sustainable alternatives but transformative solutions for next-generation lignocellulosic biorefineries. Full article

In this study, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) were produced via green routes using blueberry extracts obtained with isopropanol (I-TiO₂-NPs) and methanol (M-TiO₂ NPs). HPLC-DAD confirmed phenolic/flavonoid profiles in the extracts, and spectroscopy/microscopy established anatase, polyhedral, mesoporous TiO₂-NPs with Eg ≈ 3.0 eV, hydrodynamic sizes ≈ 130–150 nm and negative ζ-potentials (−33 to −50 mV). The in vitro compatibility between TiO₂-NPs and the plant-growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) Bacillus subtilis (Bs), Bacillus thuringiensis (B), and Trichoderma harzianum (T) sustained increased growth up to 150 µg/mL without visible negative effects. In greenhouse experimentation of Capsicum annuum exposed to low-moderate TiO₂-NPs, an increased leaf number and plant height were observed, while root length did not exceed the controls. I-TiO₂ at moderate concentrations, particularly with a single PGPM (B or T), promoted fresh and dry biomass accumulation. Biochemically, peroxidase rose sharply for M-TiO₂ at a low dose with consortium, whereas I-TiO₂ elicited broader antioxidant responses; total protein increased at higher doses for both formulations, and total chlorophyll was highest with I-TiO₂ (high dose with or without PGPMS). Collectively, the nano-bio system shows a formulation- and dose-dependent biphasic behavior: (I) I-TiO₂ enhances biomass and photosynthetic pigments; (II) M-TiO₂ favors strong POX induction under specific microorganism-dose combinations; and (III) single PGPM co-application with I-TiO₂-NPs or M-TiO₂ NPs outperforms consortia under our experimental conditions. Green synthesis thus provides surface functionalities that improve dispersion, microbial compatibility, and predictable physiological/biochemical outcomes for precision agriculture. Full article

Arsenic (As) contamination poses a critical threat to agricultural productivity, affecting rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), an agronomically important crop. A comparative assessment was performed to evaluate the efficacy of chemogenic and biogenic manganese nanoparticles (C-MnNPs and B-MnNPs) for mitigating As toxicity. B-MnNPs were biosynthesized using cell-free filtrate of Bacillus pumilus MAY4, while C-MnNPs were obtained from Cwnano Co., Ltd. (Shanghai, China). Greenhouse assays demonstrated that both C-MnNPs and B-MnNPs alleviated detrimental effects of As; however, B-MnNPs exhibited superior performance compared to their chemical counterparts. Compared to As-stressed plants, B-MnNPs enhanced leaf and root biomass (26.4% and 56.15%, respectively), net photosynthetic rate (64.8%), and stomatal conductance (50%). B-MnNPs more effectively reduced oxidative stress markers by activating antioxidant defense systems in both leaf and root tissues. Furthermore, B-MnNPs reduced in planta As accumulation while significantly improving uptake of essential nutrients, including potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and manganese, etc., in rapeseed plants. Expression studies revealed that B-MnNPs upregulated antioxidant defense and redox homeostasis related stress-responsive genes under induced As stress. Biochemical assays further confirmed the enrichment of stress-responsive phytohormones, including salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid, in B-MnNP-treated As-stressed rapeseed plants, indicating activation of multi-tier defense response by B-MnNPs to cope with As stress. These findings establish B-MnNPs as a highly effective nano-enabled strategy for managing As toxicity in the rapeseed cultivation system. This research provides critical insights into the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying MnNP-mediated stress tolerance and offers a promising green nanotechnology approach for heavy metal-resilient crops. Full article

Efficient delivery of exogenous genetic material remains a core challenge in plant biotechnology, holding profound implications for sustainable agricultural and forestry development. Although traditional delivery methods such as Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, gene gun bombardment, and electroporation have been widely applied in plant genetic engineering, these systems exhibit limitations including species-dependent efficacy, propensity to cause plant tissue damage, low transformation efficiency, susceptibility to environmental factors. In recent years, with the advancement of nanotechnology, nanoparticle-based nucleic acid delivery systems are emerging as novel tools for applications such as novel tools for dsRNA or transgene delivery. These systems leverage the unique physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, including size-dependent phenomena, tunable surface charge, and enhanced membrane penetration capabilities, to achieve targeted delivery and stable expression of genetic payloads. Nevertheless, nanomaterial-mediated gene delivery systems for plants are still in their nascent stages, and their widespread application faces numerous challenges. This article briefly introduces traditional delivery methods, systematically reviews the applications and progress of nanoparticle-based nucleic acid delivery systems, and discusses the cross-species applicability of nanoparticles, as well as the associated biosafety concerns. We aim to offer insights for tackling the prevailing technical bottlenecks and to provide guidance for the rational design of nanomaterials that efficiently traverse the plant cell wall–plasma membrane barrier and stably deliver nucleic acids without eliciting phytotoxicity. Full article

Traditional nanoparticle synthesis methods often rely on hazardous chemicals, raising concerns about their environmental impact. This study reports the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous extracts from three distinct parts of Agave tequilana: the stalk (ZnO-S), heart (ZnO-H), and leaves (ZnO-L). The aim was to explore the influence of the different plant parts, each with their respective phytochemical profile, on the structural, optical, and antibacterial properties of the resulting nanoparticles. The synthesized ZnO-NPs were extensively characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, ATR-FTIR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results revealed that ZnO-S exhibited the smallest particle size (~18.3 nm), the highest crystallinity, and the most uniform morphology. Optical analysis showed bandgap energies of 3.13 eV (ZnO-S), 2.99 eV (ZnO-H), and 3.02 eV (ZnO-L), with ZnO-S demonstrating enhanced UV absorption and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation potential. Antibacterial assays against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli confirmed strong bactericidal activity for all samples, with ZnO-S showing the largest inhibition zones, approaching the efficacy of the reference antibiotic kanamycin. This work highlights the fundamental roles of plant-derived phytochemicals as natural reducing and capping agents and emphasizes the valorization of agave stalk and leaves, traditionally treated as agricultural waste for cost-effective and eco-friendly nanomaterial production. The findings reveal the untapped potential of Agave tequilana as a sustainable source for high-performance nanomaterials, paving the way for green innovations in antimicrobial and environmental applications. Full article

Plant genetic engineering is crucial for enhancing crop yield, quality, and resilience to both abiotic and biotic stresses, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture. Agrobacterium-mediated, biolistic bombardment, electroporation, and poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG)-mediated genetic transformation systems are widely applied in plant genetic engineering. However, these systems have limitations, including species dependency, destruction of plant tissues, low transformation efficiency, and high cost. Recently, gene-delivery methods based on nanotechnology have been developed for plant genetic transformation. This nanostrategy demonstrates remarkable transformation efficiency, excellent biocompatibility, effective protection of exogenous nucleic acids, and the potential for plant regeneration. However, the application of nanomaterial-mediated gene-delivery systems in plants is still in its early stages and faces numerous challenges for widespread adoption. Herein, the conventional genetic transformation techniques utilized in plants are succinctly examined. Subsequently, the advancements in nanomaterial-based gene-delivery systems are reviewed. The applications of CRISPR-Cas-mediated genome editing and its integration with plant nanotechnology are also examined. The innovations, methods, and practical applications of nanomaterial-mediated genetic transformation summarized herein are expected to facilitate the progress of plant genetic engineering in modern agriculture. Full article

S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) reductase (GSNOR) is a major and conserved enzyme in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. It reduces a stable nitric oxide (NO) reservoir, GSNO, to balance the organisms’ redox status through S-nitrosylation. Over the last few decades, much of our understanding of GSNOR’s roles in plant biology has been updated. Here, therefore, we review the current knowledge of GSNOR in plant physiology and signaling under abiotic and biotic stresses. We observe that the role of GSNOR in plant abiotic stress is widely studied in both model and crop plants, whereas studies on its role in biotic stress have mainly focused on model plants. Under abiotic stresses, GSNOR plays a pleiotropic role in terms of plant tolerance and sensitivity. The presence or absence of GSNOR activity modulates the endogenous NO pool that balances plant reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) under stress conditions. Moreover, GSNOR regulates hormonal levels, like ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), and salicylic acid (SA), in response to abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Although GSNOR is important in plant physiology, its regulation of the redox switch is directly influenced by the extent of S-nitrosylation, where S-nitrosylated proteins generally enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stress but simultaneously suppress plant immunity. We further highlight a new perspective on NO-based nanotechnology in agriculture, focusing on GSNO encapsulated in nanocarriers. This technology improves NO stability and opens new avenues by allowing an evaluation of GSNOR’s role for sustainable crop production. Intriguingly, we discuss knowledge gaps, which are crucial to understanding the role of GSNOR in plant stress tolerance. Overall, this review accumulates a comprehensive understanding of the GSNOR enzyme in crop biology, which could aid in harnessing its function to address the impacts of climate change. Full article

Nanotechnology offers innovative approaches to improve ruminant nutrition by enhancing feed efficiency, nutrient utilization, animal health, and environmental sustainability. This review highlights the use of nano-minerals, nano-encapsulated bioactives, enzyme nano-particles, and nano-sensors to optimize rumen function, digestion, and immunity. Nano-minerals provide high bioavailability at lower doses and may replace antibiotics. Encapsulated compounds like essential oils, probiotics, and vitamins improve rumen fermentation and product quality. Nanotechnology allows precise nutrient delivery through encapsulation, chelation, and nano-packaging without affecting feed sensory properties. Nano-particles are classified as inorganic, organic, or complex nano-structures and are synthesized using physical, chemical, or biological methods. While promising, nanotechnology adoption must address concerns related to safety, environmental impact, and cost. Robust risk assessments and regulatory frameworks are essential. Overall, nanotechnology represents a powerful tool for advancing sustainable and profitable ruminants, and continued multidisciplinary research is needed to fully realize its benefits and ensure its responsible application in animal agriculture. Full article

Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in promoting precision agriculture and environmental management. This review integrates the latest advances in nanotechnology in the fields of pollution detection, agrochemicals, and stress resistance, and quantifies the significant enhancements brought by nanomaterials (NMs). NMs used in biosensors enable highly sensitive, low detection limit, and highly accurate detection of environmental pollution, plant growth status, and soil conditions, while achieving precise drug delivery and reducing environmental pollution. Furthermore, NMs can be combined with agrochemicals or directly act on plants to promote growth, reduce pests and diseases, and enhance stress resistance by altering plant physiological processes and microbial functions. This review focuses on the application value of nanotechnology in detection, smart chemicals, and stress resistance, and analyzes current challenges and risks in technology, biosafety, regulatory challenges, and scalability. Finally, it points out future directions for utilizing nanotechnology to advance smart agriculture, precision agriculture, and green bio-industrialization. Full article

Pesticide residues from agrochemicals pose significant environmental and public health risks due to their persistence and widespread contamination of soil, water, and crops. The persistent challenge of pesticide contamination requires innovative and sustainable treatment strategies to safeguard public health and environmental integrity. Although wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are designed to mitigate these pollutants, their efficiency varies, and certain pesticides persist or transform into more toxic by-products during treatment. Therefore, developing alternative methods for the effective removal of pesticide residues is imperative. This review critically evaluates the potential of adsorption, particularly using green adsorbents, as a sustainable and efficient approach for removing pesticide contaminants from soil and wastewater. Green adsorbents, derived from agricultural and industrial by-products such as sea materials, biomasses, humic acid, spent mushroom substrate, biochar, and cellulose-based adsorbents, offer a cost-effective, abundant, and environmentally friendly solution for soil treatment and water purification. Their high pollutant-binding capacity, selectivity, and affinity make them promising candidates for widespread application in soil and wastewater treatment. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing the scalability and real-world application of these adsorbents for large-scale remediation efforts. In conclusion, addressing the risks posed by pesticide residues necessitates revisiting agricultural practices and wastewater treatment strategies. The integration of green adsorbents offers a sustainable approach to mitigating pesticide contamination, thereby protecting public health and supporting environmental sustainability. This review highlights the importance of adopting green adsorbents as viable alternatives to conventional treatment methods, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize wastewater management and mitigate the adverse impacts of pesticide residues on ecosystems and human well-being. Full article