Novel ZnO-TiO₂@MSC nanomaterial based on corn stover template enhances disease resistance in tomato plants

Crop diseases significantly threaten global food security, driving the need for innovative control strategies. This study explored using ZnO-TiO₂@MSC, a novel nanomaterial synthesized using a corn stover template, to enhance disease resistance in tomato plants. In vitro assays demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity of ZnO-TiO₂@MSC against the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst. DC3000) by disrupting bacterial cell membranes and modulating oxidative stress-related gene expression. When applied to tomato leaves in pot trials, ZnO-TiO₂@MSC achieved 79.83% control of bacterial leaf spot disease while promoting plant growth and photosynthesis. The nanomaterial triggered plant defense mechanisms, upregulating resistance genes and increasing the activities of key enzymes. Metabolomic profiling revealed elevated lipids, lipid-like molecules, and organic acid derivative levels in treated leaves, suggesting cell membrane remodeling as part of the defense response. These findings highlight the potential of biologically-templated nanomaterials like ZnO-TiO₂@MSC as multifunctional tools for sustainable disease management in crops. The corn stover-based synthesis approach also provides a way to valorize agricultural waste. Further research is needed to understand the long-term impacts and viability of field-scale application of ZnO-TiO₂@MSC as an alternative to conventional pesticides.