Nanoclays Show Promise in Controlling Root Rot Disease

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Henan University of Technology have investigated the effectiveness of nanoclays in preventing and controlling root rot disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. R. glutinosa (FORg) in Rehmannia glutinosa, a herb of significant medicinal and food value. The study, funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, demonstrated that spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) technology can effectively suppress the expression of virulence-associated genes in FORg, leading to reduced disease severity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that nanoclays can be used to deliver dsRNA, which can target specific genes in the pathogen, leading to its suppression.
  • The research demonstrated that using both SGE1 and CYP51 dsRNAs in combination resulted in a synergistic effect, reducing disease severity more effectively than using a single-target treatment.
  • The dsRNA encapsulated in layered double hydroxide (LDH) showed improved stability and sustained plant protection for up to 15 days after spraying.
  • The study highlights the potential of nanomaterial encapsulation in addressing persistent fungal epidemics in agricultural systems.

Statistics:

  • 15 days: The duration over which the dsRNA encapsulated in LDH showed sustained plant protection.
  • 100%: The reduction in disease severity observed in root disc assays when using the combination of SGE1 and CYP51S dsRNAs.
  • 92%: The reduction in disease severity observed in root disc assays when using the SGE1 dsRNA.
  • 85%: The reduction in disease severity observed in root disc assays when using the CYP51S dsRNA.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. New Nanoclays Study Findings Recently Were Reported by Researchers at Henan University of Technology (NanoClay-enhanced spray-induced gene silencing as a biological control strategy for Rehmannia glutinosa root rot disease). Nanotechnology Weekly. October 13, 2025; p 922.
  • NanoClay-enhanced spray-induced gene silencing as a biological control strategy for Rehmannia glutinosa root rot disease. Pest Management Science, 2025.