Leaf rust resistance in wheat and interpretation of the antifungal activity of silver and copper nanoparticles

Wheat production is jeopardized by Puccinia triticina, the pathogen responsible for wheat leaf rust. This study assessed the impact of silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles (NPs) on the control of wheat leaf rust disease and the underlying mechanisms of disease resistance. The application of the two nanoparticles resulted in a reduction of spore germination and an extension of both incubation and latent periods. A common type of infection resulted in a reduction in both the length and width of pustules. It reduced receptivity value (number of pustule cm²) compared to untreated wheat plants by altering the physiological and biochemical responses of wheat plants and cell walls' physical and mechanical strength. The application of Ag + Cu NPs stimulates the biosynthesis of defense-related molecules crucial for P. triticina inoculation and latent periods. Furthermore, molecular docking studies were conducted to assess the effects of Cu-chitosan nanoparticles (Ag & CuNp) and their mechanisms in disease management.