Upcycling Wheat Straw into Velcro‐Like Nano‐Fungicides: On‐Demand Release Enables Life‐Cycle Management of Fusarium Head Blight via Biomimetic Interfacial Engineering

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Authors: Siwen Zhang, Yan‐ling Wu, Bao‐yi Ma, Yanru Wang, Feng‐zhe Sun, Rui Liu, Hai‐qi Huang, L. Q. Zhang, Yu‐xia Gao, Chen‐hui Zhang, Feng‐pei Du
Cited by: 1
References: 54

Abstract

ABSTRACT Precision agriculture demands innovative solutions to overcome the limitations of conventional practices, including inefficient pest control, excessive resource consumption, and environmental pollution. Inspired by mussel adhesion and wheat ear structures, this study developed polyphenol‐modified 3D network nano‐fungicides using waste wheat straw‐derived bacterial cellulose (BC) via biomimetic interfacial engineering. These nano‐fungicides inhibited Fusarium head blight (FHB) by over 95%. They enhanced pesticide deposition (by 72.51%/109.28% on leaves/ears) and improved wash resistance through “Velcro‐like” interlocking and non‐covalent affinity with cuticular waxes. Furthermore, to align with the FHB infection process, the nano‐fungicides were designed for on‐demand release—combining an initial burst with a subsequent sustained release—triggered by the pathogen's acidic, cellulase‐rich microenvironment. Compared to commercial formulations, our nano‐fungicides damaged mycelial membranes, increased protein leakage by 47.30%, suppressed 53.72% of key regulatory genes, and reduced deoxynivalenol (DON) levels in infected grains by 84.32%. Additionally, the nano‐fungicides demonstrated high biosafety for crops and soil microorganisms. Moreover, the residual fermentation broth from BC production improved soil quality and boosted seedling/root growth by 17.19%/49.66%, enabling full resource utilization. By upcycling agricultural waste, reducing chemicals, and disrupting disease cycles, this strategy embodies a circular bioeconomy, offering a scalable, eco‐friendly crop protection strategy aligned with sustainability goals.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Polymer-Based Agricultural Enhancements Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity Advanced Cellulose Research Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Functional Materials
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
36
Issue
33
Publication date
7 January 2026
Language
EN