3 - The dual role of nanotechnology in the management of biotic and abiotic stresses in plants

Abstract

Nanotechnology has the potential to offer solutions to critical problems such as the rising food demands of the continuously growing global population. Recent advancements in this subject are aiming for a long-term increase in agricultural productivity while lowering the unfavorable effects of biotic and abiotic stresses. Nanoparticles (NP) have several applications in contemporary agriculture, particularly in the management of biotic and abiotic stresses. As far the biotic stresses are concerned, these can be managed by the application of different nanobased products like nanopesticides, nanofertilizers, application of nanosensors, etc. Nanopesticides are nanomaterials with pest control activities, such as NP with natural antibacterial, insecticidal, or herbicidal activity, or NP engineered for the encapsulation of a synthetic chemical that is gradually and continuously given to the medium. Similarly, different nanomaterials have the potential to manage abiotic stresses like drought stress, salinity stress, and flood stress. Various NP have been designed to transport nucleic acid molecules while also functioning as carriers, avoiding degradation, and increasing cell absorption. To conclude, nanotechnology has a Considering these facts, in the present chapter, recent advancements in the field of nanotechnology with special reference to mitigating the biotic and abiotic stresses have been discussed.