Harnessing nanotechnology for abiotic stress mitigation in agriculture: a sustainable approach to crop resilience

Agricultural productivity is encountering escalating challenges globally due to abiotic stresses driven by climate change, such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal toxicity, all of which significantly hinder plant growth and crop yields. Nanotechnology presents exciting possibilities by utilizing nanoparticles (NPs) that bolster plant resilience through various intricate mechanisms. This review brings together the latest developments in the use of various nanomaterials, including titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, carbon nanotubes, and more, to mitigate abiotic stress. This approach uniquely combines physiological, biochemical, molecular, and epigenetic perspectives to provide a thorough understanding of how nanoparticles influence antioxidant defenses, phytohormone signaling, gene expression, and nutrient uptake in response to stress conditions. Additionally, this review explores advanced nanocarrier systems that facilitate targeted delivery and regulated release of agrochemicals, emphasizing new developments in precision agriculture and environmental safety. This work offers vital insights and future directions by addressing existing knowledge gaps and exploring challenges associated with nanoparticle toxicity, environmental effects, and regulatory frameworks, all of which are crucial for promoting sustainable, nanotechnology-driven agricultural practices amid increasing climate challenges.