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Translocation of Foliar-Applied Nanoparticles: A Critical Review From a Plant Science Perspective
1Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
Physiologia Plantarum
|August 27, 2025
Summary
Foliar-applied nanoparticles show potential for improving plant nutrition and crop protection by enhancing nutrient transport. Further research is needed to understand nanoparticle translocation mechanisms and optimize their use in agriculture.
Area of Science:
- Plant Science
- Agricultural Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Traditional foliar agrochemical applications face limitations due to poor nutrient mobility and pesticide systemic action.
- Nanoparticles (NPs) offer a novel solution for enhanced nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and crop protection via improved transport.
- Current understanding of foliar NP translocation and its agronomic implications requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review existing research on the translocation of foliar-applied nanoparticles in plants.
- To examine the influence of NP design and plant physiological processes on translocation.
- To identify research gaps and inspire future studies in nano-enabled plant nutrition and crop protection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on foliar nanoparticle translocation.
- Analysis of NP design factors affecting plant uptake and movement.
- Evaluation of quantitative data on NP remobilization and release within plants.
- Exploration of plant physiological impacts on NP transport and alternative pathways.
- Assessment of current techniques for studying NP transport, including their limitations.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests foliar-applied NPs can translocate within plants, but mechanistic understanding is limited.
- NP design parameters significantly influence translocation efficiency.
- Quantitative data on NP remobilization and release within plants are scarce.
- Plant physiological factors and alternative pathways play crucial roles in NP transport.
- Current methods for studying NP transport have limitations.
Conclusions:
- Foliar-applied nanoparticles hold promise for improving nutrient use efficiency and crop protection.
- Significant research gaps exist in understanding NP translocation mechanisms, cargo release, and agronomic relevance.
- Further research is essential to fully realize the potential of nano-enabled strategies in agriculture.
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