July 10, 2023 | Postharvest Biology and Technology |
Conducted by King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand, this study addresses the pressing postharvest issue of fruit rot in mangosteen caused by Lasiodioplodia theobromae. Leveraging the potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as antimicrobial agents, the research showcases their remarkable effectiveness in inhibiting fungal growth. In vitro tests demonstrated AgNPs' ability to completely halt mycelium growth and spore germination. In vivo experiments with AgNP concentrations at 300 ppm significantly reduced the disease index in stored mangosteen fruit, aligning with environmental regulations. AgNP treatment not only induced plant defense-related enzymes but also exhibited an eight-fold reduction in fruit rot disease compared to fungicide-treated fruits. Additionally, AgNPs positively influenced the physiology and quality of mangosteen by reducing ethylene production, mitigating weight loss, and maintaining key quality attributes. This study positions AgNPs as a safe and effective solution for combating fruit rot, alleviating pericarp hardening, and preserving the overall quality of mangosteen fruit. Read more