DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate the antifungal efficacy of green-synthesized copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles, both individually and in combination, against Cercospora canescens, the causal agent of Cercospora leaf spot in mung beans.

Methodology

The study involved isolating and identifying the pathogen Cercospora canescens from infected mung bean leaves. Green synthesis of copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles was performed using Moringa oleifera leaves. Nanoparticles were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The antifungal efficacy of Cu and Ag nanoparticles, individually and in combination (Cu-Ag hybrid), was evaluated in vitro using the poisoned food technique at concentrations of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. Promising concentrations were then assessed in vivo under field conditions. Data analysis involved Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Isolate and Identify C. canescens] --> B[Green Synthesis of Cu-Ag NPs from Moringa oleifera];
    B --> C[Characterize NanoparticlesSEM, XRD];
    C --> D[Evaluate In vitro Efficacy Poisoned Food Technique];
    D --> E[Evaluate In vivo Efficacy Field Conditions];
    E --> F[Data Analysis ANOVA, LSD];
    F --> G[Conclusion: Cu-Ag NPs Effective for CLS Management];                    

Discussion

Plant-mediated nanoparticles, particularly hybrid Cu-Ag NPs, demonstrate significant potential for managing Cercospora leaf spot in mung beans. This approach offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical treatments. The nanoparticles likely enhance plant defense mechanisms and act as direct antimicrobial agents by disrupting microbial cell membranes. The findings are consistent with previous research on the antifungal activity of silver and copper nanoparticles against various plant pathogens.

Key Findings

In vitro: The combination of Cu and Ag nanoparticles (Cu-Ag NPs) showed the least mycelial growth (13.29 mm) against C. canescens*, followed by AgNPs (18.18 mm) and CuNPs (22.22 mm), compared to the untreated control. The highest concentration (0.75%) of Cu-Ag NPs resulted in the lowest mycelial growth (11.44 mm).
In vivo*: Under field conditions, the Cu-Ag hybrid nanoparticles resulted in the lowest disease incidence (22.27%), followed by AgNPs (29.94%) and CuNPs (36.44%), compared to the control.

Conclusion

Hybrid copper-silver nanoparticles (Cu-Ag NPs) are effective in controlling Cercospora canescens both in vitro and in vivo. These nanoparticles are recommended for farmers as an effective tool for managing Cercospora leaf spot in mung beans, contributing to agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Fact Check

* Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) can cause up to 95% yield losses in mung beans under favorable conditions. (Confirmed in Abstract)
* The average particle size of AgNPs was 31.25 nm, and CuNPs was 26.41 nm. (Confirmed in Results section, Table 1)
* Under field conditions, the Cu-Ag hybrid nanoparticles resulted in a disease incidence of 22.27%. (Confirmed in Results section, Table 5)

Mind Map