Aspergillus-derived β-glucan nanoparticles: a dual strategy for Fusarium Wilt management and tomato plant growth enhancement

The synthesized β-glu-n was confirmed using NMR and IR spectroscopy. The spherical shape with a smooth surface and average size of 35 ± 6.0 nm was observed by TEM. The hydrostatic zeta potential was -38.40 mV, indicating colloidal stability. The crystalline structure of the β-glu-n was confirmed by the XRD spectrum. Furthermore, a significant seed germination and growth profile, including higher shoot and root length and lateral root, was observed in the β-glu-n-treated tomato seeds count than in the mycelial glucan (m-β-glu) and control group under glasshouse conditions. Moreover, novel protein polypeptides were derived from β-glu-n-treated plants, indicating the increased photosynthetic rate. β-glu-n inhibited <i>Fusarium oxysporum</i> in a disc diffusion test and reduced wilt symptoms in under detached leaf assay. These results suggest that β-glucan nanoparticles can promote plant growth and prevent tomato wilt disease.