Phenylalanine encapsulation into an amphiphilic carboxymethyl cellulose-derivative enhanced plant uptake and metabolism efficiency

Plants can easily uptake and metabolize externally given phenylalanine to numerous specialized metabolites, related to fragrance, increased resistance to pathogens, and fruit aroma. Despite the resulting improved quality, there are several drawbacks associated with the characteristics of phenylalanine molecules that might delay its commercial use. One is the fact that phenylalanine can serve as a carbon and nitrogen source for microorganisms when kept in aqueous solutions for extended periods. This may cause, for example, clogging of cut stems dipped in phenylalanine solutions. Another drawback is the remaining of phenylalanine residues on the plants, causing damage. Here we present a novel carboxymethyl cellulose derivate for efficient encapsulation of phenylalanine, reducing the effect of stem clogging and improving its uptake into plant tissues. This formulation is a carboxymethyl cellulose derivative with butyl substituents, termed CMC-4, which can self -assemble spontaneously, and has a dynamic structure enabling encapsulation of not only hydrophobic, but also hydrophilic and even ionic molecules. Petunia foliar application of phenylalanine encapsulated into CMC-4 increases the efficiency of phenylalanine uptake and metabolism. Furthermore, CMC-4 delayed drying of phenylalanine solution droplets sprayed on plants, resulting in less residue deposition on the leaves and flowers, and allowing treatments with higher phenylalanine concentrations.