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

BACKGROUND Soybean 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. RESULTS In 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. CONCLUSION These 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.