Nanomaterial-based sensors for real-time monitoring of crop plants growth, development, production, and protection

Over the last decade, exceptional progress in nanotechnology has led to the development of ultrasensitive and highly accurate nanoscale sensors. They are highly stable, operationally fast selectively sensitive for a particular analyte. The engineered nanomaterials like nanoparticles, nanocomposites, nanotubes, and quantum dots have been exploited for the development of highly reliable nanosensors for real-time monitoring of cellular functions, metabolic signaling, and stress biomarkers in living organisms including growing plants. The nanomaterials have been used in combination with integrated techniques like optoelectronics, chemical biology, and computer visuals. The engineered nanomaterial-based sensors have been used to detect contaminants, fertilizer, and nutrient levels in the soil. They have also been used for the real-time monitoring of phytohormones, metabolites, and water-conducting pathways. Herein, we present the latest examples showcasing the development of nanomaterial-based nanosensors for the real-time in vivo monitoring of plant growth, physiological and biochemical pathways, and early detection of stress validating the concept of sustainable growth and precision agriculture.