Learning lessons from nano-medicine to improve the design and performances of nano-agrochemicals

Abstract

Sharing concepts and knowledge between medical and agricultural fields can promote the development of improved nano-enabled technologies. A central idea behind drug delivery systems is that the active substances are encapsulated in nanoparticles (nano-medicines) to protect the drugs from premature degradation and allow them to be transported to the target site within the body. After three decades of development, nano-medicines are now used in many practical applications, including clinical oncology, infectious disease, cosmetics, and vaccines. Nano-agrochemicals are increasingly considered to tackle challenges associated with food production, sustainability and food security. Despite obvious differences between nano-medicines and nano-agrochemicals in terms of uptake mechanisms, target and environmental and economic constraints, the principles behind nanoparticle design share many similarities. This article hopes to share experiences and lessons learnt from nano-medicines that will help design more effective and safer nano-agrochemicals.