Silicon-based nano-stimulants for activating herbivore resistance in crop plants
Eco-friendly silicon-based nano-stimulants designed to activate plant immune systems against insect pests. These materials enhance production of chemical defense compounds in maize and other crops, offering a next-generation approach to sustainable plant protection without traditional pesticides.
Overview
This research program focuses on developing eco-friendly silicon-based nano-stimulants that activate natural defense mechanisms in crop plants against herbivore attacks. The approach represents a frontier in next-generation plant protection, leveraging nanotechnology to enhance plant immunity rather than relying on conventional pesticide applications. Field-validated results on maize demonstrate that these nano-stimulants can inhibit caterpillar growth, increase yield under biotic stress conditions, and stimulate production of beneficial defense compounds such as chlorogenic acids and benzoxazinoids.
Technical specifications
Key nano-stimulant formulations developed:
- Silicon quantum dots (Si QDs) for foliar spray and soil application
- Silica nanoparticles engineered for crop defense activation
- Nano-Si@SA composite formulations combining silicon with salicylic acid
Validated performance in maize:
- Foliar spray of 50 mg/kg Si QDs inhibited oriental armyworm (Mythimna separata) caterpillar growth
- Soil addition of 50 mg/kg Si QDs increased maize yield under biotic stress in field conditions
- Enhanced production of leaf defense compounds including chlorogenic acids and benzoxazinoids
Planned validation activities:
- Molecular biology assessment of calcium and phytohormone signaling pathways
- Evaluation of defense gene expression triggered by nano-stimulants
- Metabolomic screening for entomotoxic compounds
- In vitro feeding experiments to identify active defense metabolites
Technology readiness level
The technology has demonstrated proof-of-concept in laboratory and field settings, with confirmed efficacy on maize against a major agricultural pest. Current research is advancing toward understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense activation, including signaling pathways and downstream metabolite biosynthesis. The one-year validation program will further characterize active compounds and their entomotoxic properties, moving the technology toward broader crop protection applications.
About Jiangnan University
Jiangnan University is a comprehensive public research university in Wuxi, China, known for a research-driven, industry-engaged character. State-level research platforms are co-located with pilot-scale facilities that support process development and scale-up, enabling direct collaboration with enterprises on applied R&D and technical services. A university science park, joint research institutes with regional governments, and a National Technology Transfer Center provide structured on-ramps for co-development, sponsored research, and rapid deployment. Research is supported by competitive national and provincial programs, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Science and Technology’s National Key R&D Program. Clinical partners through the university’s affiliated hospital extend capabilities into translational and human-centered studies.
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