A stable polyamine-modified zein-based nanoformulation with high foliar affinity and lowered toxicity for sustained...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Pesticide drift and runoff pose environmental and health risks.
• Developing eco-friendly, targeted pesticide formulations is crucial.
• Nanodelivery systems offer a promising solution for efficient pesticide application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize polyamine-modified zein (AM-zein) as a nanocarrier for pesticides.
• To evaluate the stability, foliar affinity, and UV protective properties of AM-zein nanoparticles.
• To assess the environmental safety and efficacy of the developed nanodelivery system.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of AM-zein by incorporating ethylenediamine-terminated polyethyleneimine into zein.
• Preparation of avermectin (AVM)-loaded nanoparticles using the anti-solvent method.
• Evaluation of particle size stability, pH dispersion, leaf affinity, UV protection, insecticidal activity, and zebrafish toxicity.

Main Results:

• AM-zein nanoparticles demonstrated good stability over 30 days and dispersed well in pH 5-9.
• Nanoparticles exhibited significantly enhanced leaf affinity and retention compared to commercial formulations.
• Zein-based nanoparticles provided superior UV protection for encapsulated AVM and reduced toxicity to zebrafish.

Conclusions:

• AM-zein nanoparticles offer an improved, stable, and eco-friendly platform for pesticide delivery.
• This approach enhances pesticide efficacy through better targeting and UV protection.
• The study presents a novel strategy for sustainable agricultural chemical development.