Early Detection of Plant Diseases and their Management Using Quantum Dots: Status and Strategies

Quantum dots (QDs) are nanoscale semiconductor structures, typically measuring below 10 nm, that exhibit unique electro-optical properties, making them highly suitable for diverse applications in chemistry, pharmacy, and microbiology. Their semiconducting nature allows precise control over optical and electronic behaviours, leading to significant advancements in fluorescence-based studies. Over the past few decades, rapid developments in QD technology have resulted in luminescent materials that emit in the near-infrared region, further enhancing their utility in imaging and sensing applications. QDs possess several desirable characteristics, including high quantum efficiency, excellent biocompatibility, solubility, chemical inertness, stability, and resistance to photobleaching. These properties have expanded their potential in plant pathology, where they facilitate pathogen detection through bioimaging and biosensors. Additionally, QDs are instrumental in studying plant-pathogen interactions, enabling researchers to track the movement and behaviour of various organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Their application in disease diagnosis and management continues to grow, promising improved strategies for monitoring and mitigating plant infections. This review provides an in-depth discussion on the fundamental properties of QDs, their synthesis techniques, and their evolving role in enhancing plant disease detection and management through innovative imaging and sensing technologies.