Lipopeptide‐loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles suppress root rot disease of soybean (Glycine max L.): modulating metabolite profile and endophytic bacterial community

Abstract

BACKGROUNDSoybean production is severely affected by the soil‐borne phytopathogenic, Fusarium oxysporum, which causes root rot disease. Artificial nanoplatforms have attracted attention as a sustainable strategy to promote crop growth and protection.RESULTSIn this study, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) loaded with lipopeptide (Lip), referred to as Lip@MSNs, were synthesized with a diameter of approximately 50 nm and a Lip loading capacity of 22.40 wt%. Lip@MSNs demonstrated potent antifungal activity against F. oxysporum, inducing cell membrane disruption, permeability alterations, nuclear damage, and subsequent cell death. Pot experiment showed that Lip@MSNs significantly reduced the severity of soybean root rot disease by 43.10% while enhancing plant growth and root development. Metabolomic analysis revealed that Lip@MSNs modulated critical metabolic pathways, including zeatin and pyrimidine metabolic pathways in roots. Furthermore, Lip@MSNs recruited beneficial endophytic bacteria, such as antagonistic genera (Sphingomonas, Variovorax, and Streptomyces) and growth‐promoting genera (Rhizobium, Ensifer, and Nocardioides). Correlation analysis highlighted the role of these bacteria in nitrogen fixation and phytohormone production (e.g., trans‐zeatin), contributing to reduced root rot disease severity and improved plant health.CONCLUSIONThese findings demonstrate that the silicon‐based delivery system could serve as an effectively tool to control soil‐borne phytopathogenic diseases and promote the development of sustainable agriculture. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.