Revamping the encapsulation of microbes and their metabolites to nanoscale: a strategy to enhance crop biocontrol

The escalating global population has necessitated an increase in food crop production. Simultaneously, the expansion of agricultural land has heightened the risks posed by phytopathogens. These pathogens are demonstrating accelerated mutation rates and developing resistance to a variety of existing fungicides. In light of the adverse effects associated with chemical agents, there has been a significant shift towards the adoption of microbial biocontrol agents (MBCAs). However, several challenges remain concerning their effective application. Encapsulation technologies have emerged as a promising solution to these challenges, enhancing the efficacy of MBCAs. Microencapsulations of MBCAs have established a significant presence in the biocontrol sector, although they are not without limitations. Recent advancements in nanotechnology are providing innovative strategies to augment the effectiveness of existing MBCAs, including nanocoating and the synthesis of nanoparticles and nanocomposites. This review critically evaluates the current challenges linked to chemical control, the imperative for encapsulating MBCAs, the methodologies employed, their efficiencies, and the role of nanocoating and nanoparticles in alleviating the detrimental effects of chemical fungicides while improving the performance of encapsulated MBCAs.