In the dynamic plethora of plant biology, a profound paradigm shift is underway, catalyzed by the convergence of nanotechnology and our understanding of nutrient uptake mechanisms. Plants, traditionally viewed as passive recipients, are now emerging as active participants, capable of directly assimilating proteins with or without external aid, reshaping our perceptions and propelling us into an era of unprecedented innovations. Further, the integration of proteins or protein-based nanoparticles into the realm of plant biology has fundamentally altered our understanding of nutrient acquisition. No longer constrained by conventional root uptake mechanisms, plants now exhibit the remarkable ability to harness the potential of nano-sized proteins for enhanced protein uptake. This paradigm shift challenges long-standing dogmas and underscores the transformative power of nanotechnology in agriculture.

Understanding the mechanisms underlying this uptake process is crucial for harnessing its potential benefits, such as enhancing plant growth and resilience, delivering therapeutic compounds, or facilitating the uptake of other essential nutrients. Moreover, exploring the implications of protein and nanoparticles’ absorption by plants sheds light on the interplay between organisms and their environment, offering opportunities to engineer more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices while minimizing environmental impacts. As research in this field advances, the intricate relationship between plants and exogenous materials continues to unveil, promising exciting developments with far-reaching implications in agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Our special issue aims to explore the phenomenon of direct protein and related nanoparticles uptake by plants through various mechanisms, which is an intriguing aspect of modern agricultural and biotechnological research.
Potential areas of interest may include, but are not limited to:
● Direct protein and derived nanoparticles uptake by plants and its mechanisms.
● Biopolymer nanoparticles design for direct uptake.
● Novel approaches in plant nutrition.
● Environmental remediation and safety.
● Enhanced stress-pathogenesis resistance.
● Novel biotechnological application

For authors, please review the journal's information regarding Author Guidelines and Article Processing Charges, or direct any questions to the Editorial Office: abp@frontierspartnerships.org.

Article types and fees

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Special Issue accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Special Issue description:

• Brief Research Report
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: Functional nanoparticles, plant uptake mechanisms, food security, environmental safety, agricultural nanobiotechnology