Effect of ZnO-nanoparticles on Aspergillus flavus growth and aflatoxin accumulation both on a maize based medium and irradiated maize grains

What is it about?

Maize (corn) is one of the most important crops in the world, but it can easily become contaminated by a fungus called Aspergillus flavus. This fungus produces toxic substances known as aflatoxins, which can cause serious health problems and lead to major economic losses due to contaminated food and animal feed. Climate change, especially with more frequent droughts, is making this problem worse. One possible solution is the use of nanotechnology. In this study, we applied zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs)—tiny particles with antifungal properties— that were created in the lab and tested for their antifungal capability with the objective of reduction aflatoxin on maize grains. The results were promising: the nanoparticles reduced the fungus’s growth by up to 78% and lowered aflatoxin levels almost completely in some tests. They also caused damage to the fungus's structure. On maize grains, the nanoparticles reduced toxins by up to 99%, especially when the grains were stored in dry conditions. However, in some cases, toxin levels increased—possibly because the nanoparticles were not evenly spread, which may have stressed the fungus and triggered more toxin production._x000D_ In summary, zinc oxide nanoparticles show strong potential to reduce harmful aflatoxins in maize. Still, more research is needed to ensure they can be used safely and effectively in real-world farming conditions._x000D_ _x000D_

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