pH-responsive zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 nanoparticles for encapsulating prochloraz to enhance efficacy in controlling strawberry anthracnose

BACKGROUND Prochloraz (Pro) is a broad-spectrum fungicide that is effective against various plant pathogens, including Colletotrichum fructicola , the causal agent of strawberry anthracnose. However, its limited absorption restricts its effectiveness. In this study, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) was utilized as a nanocarrier and combined with the fungicide prochloraz (Pro) to develop an effective delivery system (Pro@ZIF-8), improving the fungicidal activity of prochloraz. RESULTS Characterization confirmed that Pro@ZIF-8 possesses a distinct dodecahedral crystal structure with an average particle size of 139.6 nm. The system exhibited pH-sensitive release, with 89.8% of the prochloraz released within 24 h at pH 5.0, while remaining stable at pH 7.4. Antifungal assays demonstrated that Pro@ZIF-8 had an EC 50 of 0.0150 mg L −1 against C. fructicola , which was significantly lower than that of free prochloraz (0.0429 mg L −1 ). Pro@ZIF-8 effectively delayed disease lesion development on strawberry leaves and fruits inoculated with C. fructicola . Under storage conditions, Pro@ZIF-8 prevented pathogen infection and kept the fruit fresh for an extended period. Additionally, by tracking fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled ZIF-8 after foliar and root applications, it was confirmed that it was systemically transported within strawberry plants. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the potential of Pro@ZIF-8 as a smart fungicide delivery system, offering a promising strategy for improving disease management in strawberries. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.