Dual-Functional Nanoformulation That Imparts Resistance to Morus alba against Sclerotinia Disease and Drought Stress

Climate change has led to alternating periods of heavy rainfall and drought, which expose mulberries to the dual pressures of sclerotinia disease and drought. In this study, a dual-functional nanoformulation, pterostilbene@nanoenzyme complex (PTE@ZIF-8@MgHCF), was prepared to control mulberry sclerotinia disease and enhance drought tolerance in mulberry. This nanoformulation (PTE concentration is 500 μM) exhibited growth inhibition rates up to 95.30% against Ciboria shiraiana and could eventually cause death of fungal cells by destroying the cell membrane. Additionally, PTE@ZIF-8@MgHCF exhibited excellent antioxidant activity. Under drought conditions, it effectively eliminated excess hydroxyl radicals, thereby protecting the photosynthetic process, which is crucial for starch production. Starch effectively maintains the osmotic pressure of cells and reduces water loss. Finally, PTE@ZIF-8@MgHCF did not exert toxic effects on wheat plants or earthworms. In conclusion, the nanoformulation is expected to greatly aid the effective control of mulberry sclerotinia disease and enhance drought resistance in mulberry.