Plant Virus-Templated Colloidal Nanoparticles: A Sustainable Platform for Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Applications

Colloidal nanoparticles, known for their tunable properties, are widely used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and other industries. A novel approach involves using plant viruses, such as Barley Stripe Mosaic Virus (BSMV) and Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV), as biotemplates for nanoparticle coatings. These plant viruses provide a highly uniform, stable structure, ideal for assembling and coating nanoparticles, enhancing their functionality, stability, and biocompatibility.

This research explores coating colloidal nanoparticles on the surfaces of BSMV and TMV to create virus-nanoparticle hybrids with improved catalytic, optical, and therapeutic properties. In pharmaceuticals, these coated virus particles hold promise for targeted drug delivery and bioimaging, as virus-like particles (VLPs) increase cellular uptake and drug efficacy. In biotechnology, the enhanced surface area and stability of these viral scaffolds make them ideal for biosensors and catalysts.

Using plant viruses as templates for nanoparticle coatings presents a sustainable and scalable alternative to synthetic carriers, making it an eco-friendly solution for various industrial applications. This study underscores the potential of virus-nanoparticle hybrids to drive innovation in medicine, diagnostics, and environmental technologies, paving the way for advanced material design and future biotechnological breakthroughs.