In Planta Nanosensors: Understanding Biocorona Formation for Functional Design

ACS Sens. 2021 Aug 27;6(8):2802-2814. doi: 10.1021/acssensors.1c01159. Epub 2021 Jul 19.

Abstract

Climate change and population growth are straining agricultural output. To counter these changes and meet the growing demand for food and energy, the monitoring and engineering of crops are becoming increasingly necessary. Nanoparticle-based sensors have emerged in recent years as new tools to advance agricultural practices. As these nanoparticle-based sensors enter and travel through the complex biofluids within plants, biomolecules including proteins, metabolites, lipids, and carbohydrates adsorb onto the nanoparticle surfaces, forming a coating known as the "bio-corona". Understanding these nanoparticle-biomolecule interactions that govern nanosensor function in plants will be essential to successfully develop and translate nanoparticle-based sensors into broader agricultural practice.

Keywords: Nanosensor; agricultural engineering; biocorona; engineered nanomaterial; in planta.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Nanoparticles*
  • Proteins

Substances

  • Proteins