A revolutionary approach to managing tick infestations may be on the horizon, as research suggests Copper/Graphene oxide core-shell nanoparticles could serve as effective nanopesticides against the economically significant Rhipicephalus tick species. A study published on January 28, 2025, evaluated the acaricidal activity of these innovative nanoparticles synthesized through solution plasma methods. The research indicated significant toxicity levels against Rhipicephalus rutilus and Rhipicephalus turanicus, with lethal concentration values (LC50) demonstrating potential as effective alternatives to traditional pesticides.
Ticks, notorious for being blood-feeding arthropods, are vectors for various pathogens impacting both animal and human health. They pose severe risks to livestock and agriculture globally, causing substantial economic loss due to disease transmission and direct infestations. The conventional use of synthetic acaricides, unfortunately, has led to resistance among tick populations, prompting researchers to explore nanopesticides as safer alternatives.
Under laboratory conditions, the Copper/Graphene oxide (Cu/GO) nanoparticles were found to exhibit high toxicity levels, particularly those synthesized at optimal parameters of 180 W for 45 minutes, which achieved LC50 values of 248.1 mg/ml against Rh. rutilus and 195.7 mg/ml against Rh. turanicus. These results indicate not only the potential efficacy of Cu/GO nanoparticles but also their promise for sustainable pest management strategies.
Key to the success of these nanoparticles is their ability to penetrate biological membranes effectively, which is attributed to their nanoscale size and increased surface area. The study identified how the Cu/GO nanoparticles inhibited the activity of detoxification enzymes, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), showcasing their multifaceted impact on tick physiology.
Specifically, AChE is pivotal for breaking down acetylcholine at neural synapses — its inhibition can result in neurotransmitter accumulation, leading to severe nerve overstimulation. The copper-graphene nanoparticles demonstrated significant inhibition of AChE, with reported values of 115 ± 0.81 U/mg protein/min for Rh. rutilus and 123 ± 0.33 U/mg protein/min for Rh. turanicus, representing toxicological threats to these ticks.
Interestingly, the study revealed increased catalase activity following treatment, indicating the ticks' potential adaptive responses to mitigate oxidative stress caused by the copper-graphene treatment. This finding stresses the complexity of tick responses to nanoparticle exposure and the necessity for comprehensive assessments of their ecological impact.
While traditional acaricides often come with notable environmental concerns, Copper/Graphene oxide nanoparticles offer promise as effective alternatives, aligning with the growing demand for reduced-impact agricultural practices. With their ability to combat tick populations resistant to current treatments, these nanoparticles symbolize the future of pest management.
The findings showcase significant strides being made toward innovative solutions to age-old agricultural issues, blending modern technology with ecological responsibility. Nevertheless, the research team emphasizes the need for continued studies to understand the broader ecological impacts of such nanoparticles, including their effects on non-target organisms within real-world settings.
The research supports the assertion, "Copper/Graphene oxide core-shell nanoparticles could be promising alternatives for the management of ticks,” reinforcing optimism for advanced pest control measures. Further exploration will be required to refine the development and field applications of these nanoparticles, ensuring efficacy without compromising environmental integrity.
Given their potential as dual-action agents — both as acaricides and delivery systems for other active compounds — Copper/Graphene oxide nanoparticles represent both hope and innovation for effective tick management strategies moving forward.
Read the original article on The Pinnacle Gazette.
