Advancing rice and maize disease management: Comparative evaluation of alginate-based azoxystrobin nanoformulation...

This study investigates the potential of an alginate-based nanoformulation as an effective delivery system for azoxystrobin, aimed at managing fungal diseases in rice and maize. The nanoformulation encapsulates azoxystrobin within an alginate matrix. Controlled-release studies confirmed that the formulation provides a sustained release profile driven by matrix swelling and diffusion, which enhances the bioavailability of the active ingredient and reduces the need for frequent applications. Antifungal assays demonstrated that this nanoformulation completely inhibited Rhizoctonia solani at levels comparable to commercial formulations that contain significantly higher concentrations of active ingredients. Contact angle analysis indicated improved foliar spreading, facilitating better surface adhesion and uptake. In vivo field evaluations revealed healthier plants with significantly reduced disease severity and increased levels of chlorophyll a and b, suggesting lower phytotoxicity and improved photosynthetic efficiency. Importantly, the nanoformulation also significantly enhanced the activity of key defense-related enzymes, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), acid invertase (AI), protease, and chitinase, demonstrating its role in activating the plant's innate immune response. The biodegradable and non-toxic nature of alginate makes it an environmentally responsible carrier, supporting long-term sustainability in agriculture. This research positions alginate-based nanoformulation as a promising strategy for integrated disease management, offering enhanced crop protection while minimizing environmental impact.