A novel histidine functionalized chitosan nanoformulation: Synthesis, characterization and its bioactivity in tomato plant

Abstract

The use of novel active ingredients for the functional modification of chitosan nanoformulations has attracted global attention. In this study, chitosan has been functionalized via histidine to craft novel chitosan-histidine nanoformulation (C-H NF) via the ionic gelation method. C-H NF exhibited elite physico-biochemical properties, influencing physiological and biochemical dynamics in tomato crops. Elite properties include homogenous-sized nanoparticles, lower PDI, viscosity, higher zeta potential, nanoparticle concentration/ml, conductivity, encapsulation efficiency, and yield. FTIR spectroscopy revealed histidine interaction with C-H NF, while SEM and TEM exposed its porous structure. Application of C-H NF to tomato seedling and potted plants via seed treatment and foliar spray positively impacts growth parameters, antioxidant-defense enzyme activities, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and chlorophyll and nitrogen content. We claim that the histidine-functionalized chitosan nanoformulation enhances physico-biochemical properties, highlighting its potential to elevate biochemical and physiological processes of tomato plant.