How Do Nanoplastics Hijack Crop Physiology: A Review of Uptake Pathways and Agricultural Sustainability Implications

The extensive use and improper disposal of plastics have led to the accumulation of plastic debris in terrestrial ecosystems, where plastics gradually degrade into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs). While MPs are pervasive contaminants, NPs present greater agricultural risks due to their ultra-small size, high surface area, and colloidal stability, which enable them to enter plant tissues and threaten plant health and crop productivity. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This review aims to summarize recent advances in understanding NP uptake, translocation, and physiological impacts on crops, and to evaluate key tracking technologies. We highlight that NPs’ behavior in plants is influenced by particle properties, cultivation systems, and plant traits. Fluorescence imaging and isotope labeling are effective for tracking NPs in plant systems. NPs enter plants primarily through root and foliar pathways, interfering with nutrient acquisition, hormone signaling, and oxidative stress responses, thereby affecting plant growth and development. By synthesizing current knowledge on NP-plant interactions, this review provides a timely overview to guide future research toward understanding the environmental fate and ecological risks of NPs in agricultural systems, ultimately supporting the sustainable development of modern agriculture. • Uptake and transport routes of nanoplastics in plants are clearly summarized. • Physicochemical properties affect nanoplastic behaviors in plants. • Nanoplastics cause oxidative stress, hormone disruption, and reduced plant growth. • Advanced imaging and labelling techniques enable tracking of nanoplastics in plants. • Strategies are proposed to assess and mitigate nanoplastic risks in agroecosystems.