Horizon Europe NanoCroptective Project: A precise and versatile nanotechnology with microbial seed biostimulant molecules to enhance crop growth and immunity

Seed germination is the first step in a sequence of events that promote the seed's transition from dormancy to vegetative growth. Therefore, it is a strictly regulated program that ensures greater plant growth and survival in a favorable environment. The emergency caused by continued environmental deterioration due to unrespectful crop management strategies and exacerbated by climate change has increased the focus on this essential stage of plant growth as a primary target for strategies to help mitigate unsustainable problems. Beneficial microbes live in association with all plants, and we know how to harness this benefit for the benefit of adult plants; however, little is known about their contribution to seed resilience and their adaptation to a changing environment.

This lack of knowledge can lead to weak and unviable biostimulant performance, undermining their credibility and market entry. Supported by the findings of our in-depth research on the microbe-seed mutualistic interaction, we propose a proof-of-concept for a precise and customizable strategy based on the use of fengycin, a molecule produced by Bacillus cells in interaction with seeds, and a fine-tuned nanotechnology platform to enhance and increase nutrient mobilization from seed-containing oil bodies. We expect improved seedling adaptation to the environment, enhanced adult plant growth and immunization against microbial pathogens, and an average 50% reduction in fertilizer and pesticide use.

Overall, our methodology should serve to enhance the credibility of biological solutions as potent seed growth biostimulants and thus promote their inclusion in sustainable crop production and protection programs.