Chitosan-only nanoparticles against phytopathogenic fungi in the past decade (2013–2023)

Chitosan is a biocompatible, biodegradable, and antimicrobial polymer. Researchers have recently explored using chitosan nanoparticles to fight phytopathogenic fungi. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of studies conducted between 2013 and 2023 using the most popular databases for academic research on this topic. A systematic review was conducted using Software Rayyan to support the process. The search was conducted using the Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases. Out of the 752 records found from 2013–2023, only 83 articles were considered eligible for inclusion in the review after screening with inclusion and exclusion criteria. Most studies showed that chitosan nanoparticles are produced using sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) through ionotropic gelation. However, using TPP has potential drawbacks and may have a synergistic effect with chitosan, which requires further investigation. TPP can affect the biological activity of the nanoparticle matrix. Furthermore, less than 10 out of the 83 articles reviewed in the time frame explored chitosan-only nanoparticles (nanochitosan) against phytopathogenic fungi. This shows the need for more research to determine the potential benefits of chitosan-only nanoparticles in control phytopathogenic fungi.