Tiny but mighty: metal nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents for plant pathogen control.

Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential use as effective antimicrobial agents for controlling plant pathogens. This review article summarizes the recent advances in the role of MNPs in the control of plant pathogens, focusing on their mechanisms of action, applications, and limitations. MNPs can act as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent against various plant pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Different types of MNPs, such as silver, copper, zinc, iron, and gold, have been studied for their antimicrobial properties. The unique physicochemical properties of MNPs, such as their small size, large surface area, and high reactivity, allow them to interact with plant pathogens at the molecular level, leading to disruption of the cell membrane, inhibition of cellular respiration, and generation of reactive oxygen species. The use of MNPs in plant pathogen control has several advantages, including their low toxicity, selectivity, and biodegradability. However, their effectiveness can be influenced by several factors, including the type of MNP, concentration, and mode of application. This review highlights the current state of knowledge on the use of MNPs in plant pathogen control and discusses the future prospects and challenges in the field. Overall, the review provides insight into the potential of MNPs as a promising alternative to conventional chemical agents for controlling plant pathogens.

Evaluation of dipstick-ELISA using 28 kDa Fasciola gigantica cathepsin l cysteine proteinase (FgCL3) for serodiagnosis of fasciolosis in naturally infected goats.

In the present investigation 100 goats presented for slaughter were used to evaluate the 28kDa cathepsin l cysteine proteinase (FgCL3) dipstick-ELISA for the diagnosis of fasciolosis. Presence of Fasciola gigantica worms in liver at the time of slaughter was taken as a gold standard for the evaluation of the assay. Faeces, blood and liver were taken from all slaughtered goats. Biochemical parameters and coprological examinations using sedimentation technique were also taken into consideration. Total serum proteins, albumin, mean values of aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase of positive group were not significantly different from those of the negative group. The diagnostic sensitivity of dipstick-ELISA was higher than coprological detection of fluke eggs. However, specificity was equal for both the tests. The accuracy of dipstick-ELISA in detecting circulatory antibodies during the course of disease was higher than coproscopic examination. In conclusion, the FgCL3 antigen dependent dipstick-ELISA was more reliable and has better scope for field application in the endemic areas.