Several nano-scale devices have emerged that are capable of analysing plant diseases, nutrient deficiencies and any other ailments that may affect food security in agro-ecosystems. It has been envisioned that smart delivery systems can be developed and utilised for better management of agricultural ecosystems. These systems could exhibit beneficial, multi-functional characteristics, which could be used to assess and also control habitat-imposed stresses to crops. Nanoparticle-mediated smart delivery systems can control the delivery of nutrients or bioactive and/or pesticide molecules in plants. It has been suggested that nano-particles in plants might help determine their nutrient status and could also be used as cures in agro-ecosystems. Further, to enhance soil and crop productivity, nanotechnology has been used to create and deliver nano fertilizers, which can be defined as nano-particles that directly help supply nutrients for plant growth and soil productivity. Nano-particles can be absorbed onto clay networks, leading to improved soil health and more efficient nutrient use by crops. Additionally, fertilizer particles can be coated with nano-particles that facilitate slow and steady release of nutrients, reducing loss of nutrients and enhancing their efficiency in agri-crops. Although the use of nanotechnology in agro-ecosystems is still in its early stages and needs to be developed further, nano-particle-mediated delivery systems are promising solutions for the successful management of agri-ecosystems. In this context, the book offers insights into nanotechnology in agro-ecosystems with reference to biogenic nanoparticles. It highlights the: • occurrence and diversity of Biogenic Nanoparticles • mechanistic approach involved in the synthesis of biogenic nanoparticles • synthesis of nanoparticles using photo-activation, and their fate in the soil ecosystem • potential applications of nanoparticles in agricultural systems • application and biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticles and their characterization • impact of biogenic nanoparticles on biotic stress to plants • mechanistic approaches involved in the antimicrobial effects and cytotoxicity of biogenic nanoparticles • role of biogenic nanoparticles in plant diseases management • relevance of biological synthesized nanoparticles in the longevity of agricultural crops • design and synthesis of nano-biosensors for monitoring pollutants in water, soil and plant systems • applications of nanotechnology in agriculture with special refer to soil, water and plant sciences A useful resource for postgraduate and research students in the field of plant and agricultural sciences, it is also of interest to researchers working in nano and biotechnology.

This book presents a collection of cross-disciplinary research, with contributions addressing all key features of the plant/microbe/ENP nexus in agro-ecosystems. The uptake, transport and transformation of nanoparticles in plants have attracted more and more attention in the past several years. Especially, the impact of Engineered Nanoparticles (ENPs) on bioprocesses; low-, medium- and high-level dose responses in the microbial community of soil; and long-, medium- and short-term exposure responses, particularly microbial nitrogen transformations, are just a few of the aspects involved. Since ENPs are used in many industries, including cosmetics, agriculture, medicine, food technology and waste management, their transport through biogeochemical cycles is an important focus of many studies today. Specifically, ENP–microbe interaction has been analysed with regard to disease treatment for plants; it plays a vital role in disease inhibition by releasing metal ions that act through many pathways – e.g. reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA transformation and disruption of the cell cycle – to stop cell growth in the pathogen. Due to these properties, ENPs are also used as slow release or delayed release pesticides and fungicides, and as carrier systems for growth-promoting hormones. Despite their multiple uses in various industries, the negative effects of ENPs are still a major concern for the scientific community and consumers alike. For example, their transport to various food chains has been reported to have adverse effects. This raises a degree of doubt concerning a rapidly growing scientific field with major applications in many industries. From a sustainable development perspective and particularly to ensure food security in light of the uncertainty accompanying climate change, it is imperative to address this divergence by focusing on the plant/microbe/ENP nexus.

Agricultural Nanobiotechnology: Biogenic Nanoparticles, Nanofertilizers and Nanoscale Biocontrol Agents presents the most up-to-date advances in nanotechnology to improve the agriculture and food industry with novel nanotools for the controlling of rapid disease diagnostic and enhancement of the capacity of plants to absorb nutrients and resist environmental challenges. Highlighting the emerging nanofertilizers, nanopesticides and nanoherbicides that are being widely explored in order to overcome the limitations of conventional agricultural supplements, the book provides important insights to enable smart, knowledge-driven selection of nanoscale agricultural biomaterials, coupled with suitable delivery approaches and formulations will lead to promising agricultural innovation using nanotechnology. Agricultural Nanobiotechnology: Biogenic Nanoparticles, Nanofertilizers and Nanoscale Biocontrol Agents explores emerging innovations in nanobiotechnology for agriculture, food, and natural resources to address the challenges of food security, sustainability, susceptibility, human health, and healthy life. The book is ideal for the multidisciplinary scientists whose goal is to see the use of nanomaterials in agriculture to reduce the amount of spread chemicals, minimize nutrient losses in fertilization and to generate increased yield through pest and nutrient management. - Includes mechanisms of plant-metal interaction and green synthesis - Explores the fabrication of nanostructures including carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, encapsulation and emulsions - Presents agriculturally focused application insights including nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, and nanoherbicides

Environmental pollution is a worldwide concern now. A major section of the world population is struggling for drinking water. Polluted soil is resulting into low agricultural productivity and thus creating challenges in the way of sustainable livelihood of a large section of human population. Biological treatment can offer both green solutions for wastewater treatment and resource recovery as well. Like algal-based systems can be utilized for wastewater treatment and production of biofuels from the biomass grown on the wastewater. Bio-based nanomaterials have been extensively studied for their employability in the health care, process optimization, water resource management, dealing with environmental pollutants, biosensors, and many others. Bioprospecting of novel biological agents, bio-based products, and bioresource recovery are paving the way for sustainable development as they are providing local solutions for a number of problems. In this proposed book, we start with the introduction to bio-nanotechnological principles and later on discuss bio-based nanomaterials employability for a diverse range of applications from environment to energy to health care. This book provides with current trends in bio-nanotechnology for anthropogonic purposes, prospects, challenges, and way forward.

This book presents a collection of cross-disciplinary research, with contributions addressing all key features of the plant/microbe/ENP nexus in agro-ecosystems. The uptake, transport and transformation of nanoparticles in plants have attracted more and more attention in the past several years. Especially, the impact of Engineered Nanoparticles (ENPs) on bioprocesses; low-, medium- and high-level dose responses in the microbial community of soil; and long-, medium- and short-term exposure responses, particularly microbial nitrogen transformations, are just a few of the aspects involved. Since ENPs are used in many industries, including cosmetics, agriculture, medicine, food technology and waste management, their transport through biogeochemical cycles is an important focus of many studies today. Specifically, ENP-microbe interaction has been analysed with regard to disease treatment for plants; it plays a vital role in disease inhibition by releasing metal ions that act through many pathways - e.g. reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA transformation and disruption of the cell cycle - to stop cell growth in the pathogen. Due to these properties, ENPs are also used as slow release or delayed release pesticides and fungicides, and as carrier systems for growth-promoting hormones. Despite their multiple uses in various industries, the negative effects of ENPs are still a major concern for the scientific community and consumers alike. For example, their transport to various food chains has been reported to have adverse effects. This raises a degree of doubt concerning a rapidly growing scientific field with major applications in many industries. From a sustainable development perspective and particularly to ensure food security in light of the uncertainty accompanying climate change, it is imperative to address this divergence by focusing on the plant/microbe/ENP nexus.

Nanotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture presents applications of nanobiotechnology for eco-friendly agriculture practices. Implementing sustainable agriculture techniques is a crucial component in meeting projected global food demands while minimising toxic waste in the environment. Nano-technological tools – including nanoparticles, nanocapsules, nanotubes and nanomolecules – offer sustainable options to modernise agriculture systems. Written by nanotechnology experts, this book outlines how nano-formulations can improve yield without reliance on chemecial pesticides and reduce nutrient losses in fertilization. It reveals how nanotools are used for rapid disease diagnostics, in treating plant diseases and enhancing the capacity for plants to absorb nutrients. Features: Combines nanotechnology and agronomy presenting applications for improving plant performance and yields. Reveals nanotechnology-based products used for the soil and plant health management which mitigate climate change. Discusses roles of microbial endophytes, heavy metal nanoparticles and environment health, nano-nutrients, phytochemicals, green bioengineering and plant health. This book appeals to professionals working in the agriculture and food industry, as well as agricultural scientists and researchers in nanotechnology and agronomy.

Nano-Biopesticides Today and Future Perspectives is the first single-volume resource to examine the practical development, implementation and implications of combining the environmentally aware use of biopesticides with the potential power of nanotechnology. While biopesticides have been utilized for years, researchers have only recently begun exploring delivery methods that utilize nanotechnology to increase efficacy while limiting the negative impacts traditionally seen through the use of pest control means. Written by a panel of global experts, the book provides a foundation on nano-biopesticide development paths, plant health and nutrition, formulation and means of delivery. Researchers in academic and commercial settings will value this foundational reference of insights within the biopesticide realm. - Provides comprehensive insights, including relevant information on environmental impact and safety, technology development, implementation, and intellectual property - Discusses the role of nanotechnology and its potential applications as a nanomaterial in crop protection for a cleaner and greener agriculture - Presents a strategic, comprehensive and forward-looking approach

Biogenic Nanoparticles: Interplay with Climate Change and Implications for Human Health provides an exhaustive exploration into the genesis, characteristics, and dynamic transformations of biogenic nanoparticles, unravelling the intricate mechanisms underpinning their far-reaching influence on the ever-evolving panorama of climate dynamics and complex ecosystems. This book will explore the myriad applications of biogenic nanoparticles across domains such as environmental sustainability, agriculture and renewable energy, highlighting their transformative potential to combat pressing global challenges. The multifaceted implications of biogenic nanoparticles for human health will be delved into, meticulously dissecting their potential as groundbreaking agents in the realms of medicine and diagnostics, while simultaneously addressing the critical issues surrounding their exposure and potential toxicity. In sum, this book will contribute profoundly to the collective knowledge, shedding light on how these tiny entities shape our world and offer innovative pathways toward addressing the multifaceted challenges of our time.

This book explains the metabolic processes by which microbes obtain and control the intracellular availability of their required metal and metalloid ions. The book also describes how intracellular concentrations of unwanted metal and metalloid ions successfully are limited. Its authors additionally provide information about the ways that microbes derive metabolic energy by changing the charge states of metal and metalloid ions. Part one of this book provides an introduction to microbes, metals and metalloids. It also helps our readers to understand the chemical constraints for transition metal cation allocation. Part two explains the basic processes which microbes use for metal transport. That section also explains the uses, as well as the challenges, associated with metal-based antimicrobials. Part three gives our readers an understanding that because of microbial capabilities to process metals and metalloids, the microbes have become our best tools for accomplishing many jobs. Their applications in chemical technology include the design of microbial consortia for use in bioleaching processes that recover metal and metalloid ions from industrial wastes. Many biological engineering tasks, including the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and similar metalloid structures, also are ideally suited for the microbes. Part four describes unique attributes associated with the microbiology of these elements, progressing through the alphabet from antimony and arsenic to zinc.

Nanotechnology is gaining importance in every field of science and technology. Green synthesis of nanomaterials involves the use of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses; and different lower and higher plants. Green synthesis of nanomaterials from plant extracts becoming popular in comparison to synthesis using microorganisms. Plant based-nanomaterials synthesis is easy, have no need to bring back from the culture medium, and is safe. Additionally, plant-based nanomaterials are eco-friendly, in comparison to physical and chemical modes of synthesis. Several lower and higher plants are rich in terms of secondary metabolites. These metabolites have been used as medicine in crude extract form or with some other formulations. They have been also used to isolate the bioactive compounds in modern medicine as well as in herbal medicine systems. Thus, phytochemicals present in the plant and their parts play an important role in nanomaterials synthesis, mainly due to the presence of a significant number of secondary metabolites, for instance, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins, etc. Further, essential and aromatic oils have been also explored for nanomaterials synthesis, and they are also equally useful in terms of their various biological applications. These organic ingredients come from a wide range of plant components, such as leaves, stems, roots, shoots, flowers, bark, and seeds. Globally, the presence of different plants has shown a capability to produce huge and diverse groups of secondary metabolites. The functional groups present in the plant extract acts as capping and stabilizing agent. Most of the time, pure isolated bioactive compounds are more biologically active; hence scholars are focusing their research on the synthesis of nanomaterials using some particular class of secondary metabolites. Investigations have shown that the green synthesized nanomaterials were found to be more biologically active in comparison to chemically synthesized nanomaterials. These nanomaterials and or nanocomposites found different applications especially in drug delivery, detection and cure of cancer cells, diagnosis of a genetic disorder, photoimaging, and angiogenesis detection. They have also shown several applications in agricultural, horticultural as well as forestry sectors. The book in hand covers a wide range of topics as mentioned above. It incorporates chapters that the authors have skilfully crafted with clarity and precision, reviewing up-to-date literature with lucid illustrations. The book would cater to the need of graduate students as a textbook and simultaneously be useful for both novices and experienced scientists and or researchers working in the discipline of nanotechnology, nanomedicine, medicinal plants, plant science, economic botany, chemistry, biotechnology, pharmacognosy, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemistry, and many other interdisciplinary subjects. It should also inspire industrialists and policy makers associated with plant-based nano products.