Metallic and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Plant Virus Suppression

Plant viral diseases severely impact yields and food security, while conventional controls remain inefficient. Metal oxide and metallic nanoparticles (NPs) such as Ag, Cu, ZnO, TiO2, and MgO offer promise through viral inactivation, replication interference, ROS generation, and defense activation. NPs also act as nanocarriers for RNAi-based antivirals. Their efficacy depends on size, charge, solubility, application method, plant anatomy, and environment. Studies show enhanced resistance, growth, and physiology in crops. Yet risks like phytotoxicity, accumulation, non-target effects, and food chain transfer require assessment. Green synthesis and surface functionalization improve safety and sustainability. This chapter summarizes NP-mediated antiviral mechanisms, uptake, applications, ecological impacts, and their role in advancing sustainable plant protection, particularly in South Asia and Pakistan.