Nanoformulations for Targeted Antiviral Delivery in Plants

Plant viruses cause crop losses and over half of emerging plant diseases are viral, yet effective cures are scarce. Nanoformulations offer a targeted strategy to deliver antivirals or boost plant defenses—an emerging field called nanophytovirology. Nanoparticles can inactivate virions, enhance innate immunity, or carry genetic and chemical agents into cells. Classes include metal/metal-oxide NPs (Ag, Au, Cu, ZnO), carbon materials, silica/nano-clays, polymeric and lipid carriers (chitosan, dendrimers, liposomes), and biogenic NPs. This chapter reviews virus classes and impacts; core mechanisms (virion inactivation, RNA interference, immune priming) and delivery routes (foliar spray, root uptake, vascular injection, seed/tissue application). We integrate laboratory and field results, highlight environmental and regulatory issues (toxicity, safety, scalability), and map future directions—NP-mediated CRISPR delivery, smart carriers, and sustainable nano-agriculture. The goal is to turn lab advances into practical tools that strengthen virus surveillance and plant-health security.