Abstract

Global pollinator decline, driven by neonicotinoid insecticides and agricultural intensification, poses a critical threat to sunflower (Helianthus annuus) oilseed yields. Even in self-fertile sunflower varieties, yield losses of up to 30% occur in the absence of pollination, underscoring the vital role of insect pollinators in determining seed and oil quality. This review synthesizes recent advancements in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis and proposes a novel framework utilizing oleosin-stabilized nanocarriers. These nanocarriers are designed to mitigate neonicotinoid degradation while serving as a synergistic approach to restoring pollen nutritional quality and safeguarding bee health in contaminated agricultural environments. We examine the role of hybrid-specific oleosin isoforms (HαOL1 and HαOL2) in stabilizing AMF inoculants, enabling targeted delivery to the rhizosphere, and optimizing nutrient mobilization, pollen amino acid composition, and overall plant health. Although AMF demonstrates potential for enhancing seed set and pollen value through improved phosphorus and micronutrient uptake, the widespread presence of persistent neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid) continues to impede pollinator recovery. This review identifies a critical research gap: the lack of large-scale field validation for these nano-biotechnological tools and the insufficient monitoring of wild bee populations. We present a conceptual model combining AMF-mediated stress alleviation with precision oleosin-based delivery systems to address the “Pollinator-Forage Paradox,” wherein the ecological benefits of floral resources are undermined by pesticide contamination. Through predictive modeling, this framework aims to reduce chemical residues in plant tissues, thereby protecting pollinator health. Ultimately, this approach promotes sustainable agriculture via climate-resilient sunflower systems (SDG 2, 13), the conservation of pollinator biodiversity (SDG 15), and innovation in nanobiotechnology (SDG 9, 12).