Silicon’s antifungal mission

Fungal pathogens spread rapidly via tiny spores, produce mycotoxins, and easily penetrate plant cells.

💧 Despite their apparent simplicity, these pathogen mechanisms can infect plants in a flash under favorable temperature and humidity conditions.

✅ This is where silicon (Si) can help by limiting fungal infections through strengthening plant structure and activating natural defense mechanisms.

🔎 Mechanical strengthening involves:

1. The deposition of amorphous silica (SiO₂) in cell walls.

2. The formation of an additional layer that reinforces cell structures, limiting the penetration and germination of fungal spores.

   
   

🔎 Biological enhancement is based on:

1. The activation of genes associated with plant defense (e.g., PAL, PRO, CHS, POX, PR-1, CHI, β-1,2-glucanase), which leads to the production of protective compounds.

2. Stimulation of the formation of secondary metabolites, antioxidants, and hormones that support survival under stressful conditions and limit pathogen growth (e.g., salicylic acid).

🌱 Silicon-induced defense mechanisms may be hormone-dependent or occur independently of hormones, but their effect is to increase plant resistance.

☀️ Silicon-based solutions not only increase plant resistance to fungal pathogens but also support their proper development during abiotic stress.

🌾 Harnessing plants’ natural defense mechanisms is a step toward healthy crops and more sustainable agriculture.

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