Bionanocomposites: A new approach for fungal disease management

• Published in: Biocatalysis and agricultural biotechnology 2024-04, Vol.57, p.103115, Article 103115
• Main Authors: Rameez, Mohd, Khan, Nadeem, Ahmad, Salman, Ahmad, Malik M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bionanocomposites; Disease; Disease management; Fungi; Nanofungicides; Nanoparticle
• ISSN: 1878-8181; 1878-8181
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2024.103115

Fungal diseases pose a significant threat to agriculture, human well-being, and the environment. Conventional approaches to fungal disease management, such as chemical fungicides, have limitations including environmental concerns and the development of resistant strains. Recently, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising alternative for controlling fungal infections. This review discusses the innovative use of bionanocomposites as a novel approach for fungal disease management. Nanocomposites are engineered materials consisting of nanoparticles dispersed within a matrix. They offer unique properties, including enhanced surface area and controlled release, making them ideal candidates for delivering antifungal agents effectively. This paper reviews the latest research on nanocomposites tailored for fungal disease management, highlighting their synthesis methods, characterization techniques, and potential applications across various domains. The benefits of using nanocomposites in fungal disease management are manifold. They enable targeted delivery of antifungal agents, reducing environmental contamination and minimizing adverse effects on non-target organisms. Additionally, the controlled release kinetics of nanocomposites can enhance the efficacy of antifungal agents while reducing the risk of resistance development. Furthermore, their versatility allows customization for specific fungal pathogens, making them suitable for a wide range of applications in agriculture, medicine, and environmental protection. This review underscores the growing importance of nanocomposites as a transformative technology in the fight against fungal diseases. As research in this field advances, nanocomposites hold great promise for revolutionizing fungal disease management practices, offering sustainable and effective solutions for the future. •Bionanocomposites combine antifungal nanoparticles and biological agents for improved treatment of fungal infections.•Enhances drug delivery to fungal infections, entering cells for better treatment with fewer side effects.•Counters fungal drug resistance via multi-mechanistic action, offering an effective approach against evolving pathogens.•Bionanocomposites offer eco-friendly fungal disease management, meeting the demand for sustainable healthcare solutions.