Utilization of Biosensors in the Identification of Bacterial Diseases in Maize

Nanotechnology is an emerging technological and scientific breakthrough that can transform agricultural sectors by providing novel tools for the molecular detection of biotic and abiotic stress, and the rapid detection of phytopathogenic diseases. In plants, it has the potential to enhance their capacity to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Furthermore, nanobiotechnology improves our understanding of crop biology, yields, and nutritional values. The various applications of nanotechnology in agriculture are (1) energy storage, production and conversion (photovoltaic modules); (2) increased agricultural productivity (nanoporous zeolites for prolonged and efficient release of fertilizers); (3) capsules for the specific release of pesticides; (4) the use of biosensors for monitoring the soil quality and plant vitality; (5) pest and phytopathogen detection biosensors; and (6) pesticide biosensors. Nanosensors and intelligent delivery systems based on nano-products are used in the agricultural sector to combat crop pathogens. This nanotechnology seeks to minimize nutrient losses in fertilization and improve crop productivity by optimizing the use of water and nutrients. Nanotechnology provides a wide range of opportunities to produce agro-products based on nanomaterials such as fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and nanosensors. These will make it possible to increase the food yield sustainably, reduce the environmental impact and detect infections in plants. This chapter talks about how nanotechnology can be used in plant pathology and how nanomaterials can be used to make biosensors that can detect the main bacterial diseases in maize.