High-Photon-Harvesting Nanophotofertilizers for Plant Growth Multiregulation

Nanophotoresponsive technology has emerged as a promising way to enhance plant photosynthesis, but it faces limitations in light absorption and electron transfer efficiency. This study presents a photoresponsive nanosystem, LDNPs@Fe,Cu-CDs, combining lanthanide-doped nanoparticles (LDNPs) and Fe/Cu dual single-atom-doped carbon dots (CDs). Fabricated via hydrothermal synthesis, the nanosystem can regulate plant growth through light absorption, photothermal effects, photoelectron generation, and photocatalysis. Using a simple surface spraying method, the LDNPs@Fe,Cu-CDs can be absorbed by leaves and transported into N. benthamiana. LDNPs@Fe,Cu-CDs can harvest both near-infrared and ultraviolet light for photosynthesis and promote electron transfer in the photosynthetic chain by 33.2%. The nanosystem increased chlorophyll levels by 28.4% and enhanced photosynthesis by 67.5%. Additionally, it can alleviate the limitations of reactive oxygen species and cold environments, improving plant growth. The wet and dry weight of N. benthamiana were increased by 57.7% and 50.5%, respectively. LDNPs@Fe,Cu-CDs show great potential as a “nanophotofertilizer” for agricultural applications.