ZnO nanoparticles delivered by metal–organic framework ZIF-8 are highly effective in controlling tobacco brown spot disease

BACKGROUND Fungal phytopathogens pose a significant threat to global crop yields. The overuse of pesticides leads to pesticide-resistant pathogens, environmental contamination and risks to human health. Consequently, there is an urgent need for effective and ecofriendly antifungal strategies to address these challenges. RESULTS Herein, ZnO-ZIF-8 is synthesized via an in situ growth method to integrate the antifungal property of zinc oxide (ZnO) and the control release property of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF)-8. Results suggest that the inhibition rates of ZnO, ZIF-8 and ZnO-ZIF-8 against Alternaria alternata are 44.4%, 74.1% and 94.4%, respectively, indicating that ZnO-ZIF-8 exhibits the most potent antifungal activity. ZnO-ZIF-8 also causes distortion and fracture of mycelia, significantly impairing spore germination and inhibiting germ tube elongation. CONCLUSION The potential antifungal mechanisms of ZnO-ZIF-8 involve the disruption of fungal cell morphology and structure through the release of Zn 2+ , ultimately leading to fungal cell death. Biosafety assessments indicate that the application of ZnO-ZIF-8 exhibits negligible effects on tobacco seeds and plants. This study provides valuable insights for the effective management of plant fungal diseases and supports sustainable agricultural development. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.