大気圧空気プラズマによる植物病害防除と植物機能制御

抄録

Atmospheric-pressure plasma (APP) technology has attracted significant attention for its ability to generate reactive species from air using electrical energy. We have developed an air-based APP device that produces high-density dinitrogen pentoxide (N₂O₅) with exceptional selectivity. This achievement broadens the potential applications of plasma-generated, short-lived reactive nitrogen species in agriculture and related fields. As a representative application, plasma-generated N₂O₅ gas was shown to enhance plant immunity in Arabidopsis thaliana. Notably, cytosolic calcium signaling observed within seconds after N₂O₅ exposure indicates a rapid activation mechanism associated with subsequent gene expression changes. Furthermore, N₂O₅ treatment increased several valuable secondary metabolites in sweet basil leaves through the activation of plant defense responses. Based on these findings, we aim to develop sustainable farming systems that reduce dependence on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, contributing to a more sustainable future society.