Novel nanotechnological approaches for managing Phytophthora diseases of plants

Members of the Phytophthora genus are soil-dwelling pathogens responsible for diseases of several important plants. Among these, Phytophthora infestans causes late blight of potatoes, which was responsible for the Irish potato famine during the mid-19th century. Various strategies have been applied to control Phytophthora, including integrated management programs (IMPs) and quaran-tine, but without successful full management of the disease. Thus, there is a need to search for alternative tools. Here, we discuss the emerging role of nano -materials in the detection and treatment of Phytophthora species, including slow delivery of agrochemicals (microbicides and pesticides). We propose integrating these tools into an IMP, which could lead to a reduction in pesticide use and pro-vide more effective and sustainable control of Phytophthora pathogens.

Automated summary

This article discusses the emerging role of nano-materials in the detection and treatment of Phytophthora species, including slow delivery of agrochemicals. The authors propose integrating these tools into an integrated management program to reduce pesticide use and provide more effective and sustainable control of Phytophthora pathogens.