Urease Inhibition Mechanisms in Soil-Plant Systems Using Coordination Polymers for Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable agricultural practices has intensified research into enzyme inhibition mechanisms that can optimize nitrogen utilization efficiency in soil-plant systems. Urease, a critical enzyme responsible for urea hydrolysis in soils, plays a pivotal role in nitrogen cycling but often leads to significant nitrogen losses through ammonia volatilization when not properly regulated. This study investigates the application of coordination polymers as innovative urease inhibitors in soil-plant systems, focusing on their mechanisms of action, environmental stability, and agricultural implications. Coordination polymers, characterized by their unique structural properties and tunable chemical compositions, offer promising solutions for controlled enzyme inhibition while maintaining soil health and supporting plant growth. The research examines various copper-based coordination polymers and their effectiveness in prolonging urease inhibition compared to conventional chemical stabilizers. Results demonstrate that coordination polymers exhibit superior performance in maintaining enzyme inhibition over extended periods, with minimal adverse effects on beneficial soil microorganisms and plant development. The study also evaluates the impact of these inhibitors on soil carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus dynamics, revealing enhanced nutrient retention and improved fertilizer use efficiency. Furthermore, the investigation explores the relationship between coordination polymer structure and inhibition selectivity, providing insights into the design of next-generation agricultural amendments. These findings contribute to the development of environmentally sustainable approaches to nitrogen management in agricultural systems, offering potential solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining crop productivity.