Nanotechnology-driven gene silencing: advancements in SIGS–dsRNA technology for sustainable disease management

Among the fungal diseases, Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused by Fusarium graminearum, is one of the most destructive disease affecting wheat. This pathogen poses significant threats to global wheat production, leading to substantial yield losses and contaminating grains with harmful mycotoxins. The chemical control of FHB has become increasingly challenging due to the rise of pathogen resistance, environmental concerns, and the effects of climate change. This review introduces a novel approach to disease management through spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS), a cutting-edge technology that uses double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to silence critical genes in both the fungus and the host plant. This silencing reduces pathogen virulence and enhances plant resilience. A key innovation is the integration of nanotechnology to improve the delivery of dsRNA, addressing challenges related to stability, cellular uptake, and targeting efficiency in field conditions. Nanocarriers have revolutionized dsRNA delivery by improving its encapsulation efficiency, precision, and stability, compared to traditional methods. Advances in cost-effective dsRNA production, particularly through microbial expression systems, enable scalable and sustainable implementation of this technology. This review emphasizes the potential of nanocarrier systems in precision agriculture and highlights their role in replacing harmful chemical treatments with RNA interference (RNAi)-based solutions. RNAi-based approaches not only reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals, but also promote environmental sustainability by addressing fungicide resistance. However, challenges remain in large-scale field application, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory approval processes. Overcoming these hurdles will be crucial to unlocking the full potential of this technology. In conclusion, the combination of nanotechnology and SIGS-based dsRNA delivery offers a groundbreaking approach to managing Fusarium infections in wheat. This innovative strategy has the potential to minimize environmental impacts while enhancing global food security, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.