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Guo Z, Zhang M, Li J. Modifying luteolin's algicidal effect on Microcystis by virgin and diversely-aged polystyrene microplastics: Unveiling novel mechanisms through microalgal adaptive strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024:124237. [PMID: 38801882 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Luteolin has shown great potential in inhibiting Microcystis-dominated cyanobacterial blooms (MCBs). However, widespread microplastics (MPs) in natural aquatic systems can serve as substrates for cyanobacterial growth, potentially impacting their resistance to external stress and might interfere with luteolin's algicidal effect. This study investigated the impact of virgin and diversely-aged polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on the inhibitory effect of luteolin involving Microcystis growth and microcystins (MCs) content in water. Moreover, the underlying mechanism was also revealed by jointly analyzing the SEM images, oxidative stress, exopolymeric substances (EPSs) content and functional gene expression. Result suggested that 0.5, 5 and 50 mg/L virgin and diversely-aged PS-MPs almost reduced growth inhibition ratio and oxidative damage of Microcysits by both doses of luteolin by stimulating EPSs secretion and inducing cell self-aggregate or hetero-aggregate with PS-MPs. Compared to virgin PS-MPs, photo-aged PS-MPs possessed rougher flaky surfaces, and hydrothermal-aging cracks the MPs internally, which were more conducive to interacting and hetero-aggregating with cells, and exhibiting more significant protective effects to Microcystis. However, MPs further reduced MCs content in water, possibly attributed to their adsorption effect on MCs, compared to luteolin stress alone. Such toxic hetero-aggregate formed by MCs, MPs, and Microcystis cells are more likely to be consumed, thus entering the food chain and triggering toxic bioaccumulation, posing greater eco-risks. This is the first study to clarify the impact and mechanisms of virgin and diversely-aged MPs on allelopathic algicidal effects from the perspective of microalgal inherent detoxifying abilities and self-protective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghui Guo
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingxia Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jieming Li
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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2
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Yang W, Gao P, Ye Z, Chen F, Zhu L. Micro/nano-plastics and microalgae in aquatic environment: Influence factor, interaction, and molecular mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173218. [PMID: 38761949 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nano-plastics, as emerging persistent pollutant, are frequently detected in aquatic environments together with other environmental pollutants. Microalgae are the major primary producers and bear an important responsibility for maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Numerous studies have been conducted on the influence of micro/nano-plastics on the growth, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, gene expression and metabolites of microalgae in laboratory studies. However, it is difficult to comprehensively evaluate the toxic effects of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae due to different experimental designs. Moreover, there is a lack of effective analysis of the aforementioned multi-omics data and reports on shared biological patterns. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to compare the acute, chronic, pulsed, and combined effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae and explore hidden rules in the molecular mechanisms of the interaction between them. Results showed that the effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae was related to exposure mode, exposure duration, exposure size, concentration, and type of micro/nano-plastics. Meanwhile, the phenomenon of poisoning and detoxification between micro/nano-plastics and microalgae was found. The inhibitory mechanism of micro/nano-plastics on algal growth was due to the micro/nano-plastics affected the photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and ribosome pathways of algal cells. This brought the disruption of the functions of chloroplasts, mitochondria, and ribosome, as well as impacted on energy metabolism and translation pathways, eventually leading to impairment of cell function. Besides, algae resisted this inhibitory effect by regulating the alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism and purine metabolism pathways, thereby increasing the chlorophyll synthesis, inhibiting the increase of reactive oxygen species, delaying the process of lipid peroxidation, balancing the osmotic pressure of cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Yang
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China
| | - Pan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, PR China
| | - Zongda Ye
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Funing Chen
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Liandong Zhu
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China.
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3
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Lu X, Wang Z. Molecular mechanism for combined toxicity of micro(nano)plastics and carbon nanofibers to freshwater microalgae Chlorella pyrenoidosa. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 344:123403. [PMID: 38244907 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The understanding of the environmental consequences resulting from the presence of micro(nano)plastics and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) in aquatic ecosystems is currently limited. This research endeavor sought to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms by which engineered polystyrene-based microplastics (MPs)/nanoplastics (NPs) and CNFs, both individually and in combination, elicit toxic effects on an algal species Chlorella pyrenoidosa. The findings revealed that the combined toxicity of MPs/NPs and CNFs depended on the concentration of the mixture. As the concentration increased, the combined toxicity of MPs/NPs and CNFs was significantly greater than the toxicity of each component on its own. Furthermore, the combined toxicity of NPs and CNFs was higher than that of MPs and CNFs. The study integrated data on cell membrane integrity, oxidative stress, and antioxidant modulation to create an Integrated Biomarker Response index, which demonstrated that the co-exposure of algae to NPs and CNFs resulted in more severe cellular stress compared to exposure to NPs alone. Similarly, the combination of NPs and CNFs caused greater cellular stress than the combination of MPs and CNFs. Additionally, significant changes in the expression of stress-related genes caused by MPs/NPs alone and in combination with CNFs indicated that oxidative stress response, glucose metabolism, and energy metabolism played critical roles in particle-induced toxicity. Overall, this study provides the first insight into the toxicological mechanism of MPs/NPs and CNFs mixtures at the molecular level in freshwater microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xibo Lu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, PR China
| | - Zhuang Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, PR China.
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4
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Zhang Z, Zou S, Li P. Aging of plastics in aquatic environments: Pathways, environmental behavior, ecological impacts, analyses and quantifications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122926. [PMID: 37963513 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquity of plastics in our environment has brought about pressing concerns, with their aging processes, photo-oxidation, mechanical abrasion, and biodegradation, being at the forefront. Microplastics (MPs), whether originating from plastic degradation or direct anthropogenic sources, further complicate this landscape. This review delves into the intricate aging dynamics of plastics in aquatic environments under various influential factors. We discuss the physicochemical changes that occur in aged plastics and the release of oxidation products during their degradation. Particular attention is given to their evolving environmental interactions and the resulting ecotoxicological implications. A rigorous evaluation is also conducted for methodologies in the analysis and quantification of plastics aging, identifying their merits and limitations and suggesting potential avenues for future research. This comprehensive review is able to illuminate the complexities of plastics aging, charting a path for future research and aiding in the formulation of informed policy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Zhang
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Shichun Zou
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Pu Li
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, Zhuhai 519082, China.
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5
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Cheng W, Zhou Y, Chen H, Wu Q, Li Y, Wang H, Feng Y, Wang Y. The iron matters: Aged microplastics disrupted the iron homeostasis in the liver organoids. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167529. [PMID: 37788777 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Plastic products undergo artificial and unintentional aging during daily use, causing the presence of aged microplastics (aMP). Humans are inevitably exposed to aMP. Liver is one of the critical target organs of MP through oral intake, however, limited research has focused on the hepatic toxicity of aMP compared to pristine MP (pMP). We utilized the human pluripotent stem cells-derived liver organoids (LOs) to compare the cytotoxicity of pristine polystyrene microplastics (pPS) (1 μm, carbonyl index 0.08) and aged polystyrene microplastics (aPS) (1 μm, carbonyl index 0.20) ranged from 20 to 200 ng/mL. Our findings indicate that aPS was more cytotoxic than pPS. We explored the disrupted iron homeostasis in terms of the [Fe2+] and [Fe3+] levels, iron storage and transport. A "vector-like effect" induced by aPS has been preliminarily suggested by the correlated change in total iron level and co-localization of PS and ferritin light chain (FTL) in the LOs following exposure to aPS and ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) individually and combinedly. In addition, we observed abnormal mitochondrial morphology, elevated lipid peroxidation, and declined GSH peroxidase activity, together with the declined expression of transferrin receptor (TFRC) and elevated expressions of SLC7A11, FTL. The gene handled iron transport and iron use were disrupted by aPS. Moreover, we employed FAC to introduce iron overload and Nacetylcysteine (NAC) to protect the lipid peroxidation. In aPS + FAC group, aggravated effects could be observed in aspects of [Fe2+] level, lipid peroxidation, and compromised expression levels of iron homeostasis-related markers, in contrast, in aPS + NAC group, most of changes recovered but the hepatocytoxicity remained. Specifically, a dimorphic change in elevated FTL and decreased ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) caused by 50 ng/mL aMP (57.33 ± 3.57 items/mL, equivalent to human intake level), indicated a specific response to low-dose aMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cheng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yue Zhou
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hange Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qian Wu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Feng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- The Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Public Health, Collaborative Innovation Center for Clinical and Translational Science by Ministry of Education & Shanghai, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Sansing J, Karapetrova A, Gan J. A multi-factor analysis evaluating the toxicity of microplastics on algal growth. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166140. [PMID: 37562627 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Marine and freshwater bodies are the primary destinations of microplastics (MPs), where MPs can interact closely with algae. Here, we synthesized existing literature on the effect of MPs on algal growth. Studies examining the effects of MPs on algal growth have yielded conflicting results. Some studies reported growth inhibition, whereas others showed no significant effect or even growth enhancement. Data from 71 studies in the subject area were evaluated using cross-tables, scatterplots, and chi-square tests of independence, and four factors (polymer type, algal type, MP size, MP concentration) likely influencing the observations were identified. Experiments using certain polymers of plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, and algal phyla, such as Chlorophyta, were more likely to show growth inhibition. Higher MP concentrations were more likely to reduce algal growth, which was further amplified by exposure time. However, MP size appeared to exhibit a nonlinear relationship with algal growth inhibition, suggesting that different MP sizes may elicit different effects. Finally, this review highlights the need for more standardized data collection and analysis methods as well as future research focused on exploring the possible mechanisms of growth hindrance and algae exposure to environmentally relevant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sansing
- Department of Earth, Environmental & Planetary Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
| | | | - Jay Gan
- Department of Environmental Science, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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7
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Xie Z, Li P, Lei X, Tang Q, Zhao X, Tang J, He X. Unraveling the combined toxicity and removal mechanisms of fluoxetine and sertraline co-contaminants by the freshwater microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140217. [PMID: 37739131 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (FLX) and sertraline (SER), are among the most widely detected pharmaceuticals in aquatic environments, and they usually occur as mixtures. However, little is known about the combined toxicity of SSRI mixtures to microalgae and the associated removal mechanisms. This study investigated the combined toxicity of FLX and SER to the growth, photosynthetic activity, and antioxidant system of Chlorella pyrenoidosa and their removal mechanisms. The results showed that FLX and SER strongly inhibited microalgal growth with 96 h EC50 values of 493 and 61.1 μg/L, respectively. Additionally, the combined toxicity of FLX and SER towards microalgal growth exhibited an additive effect. After 4 days of short-term exposure, FLX, SER, and their mixtures caused photosynthetic damage and oxidative stress in microalgae, and the mixture's toxicity was stronger than those of individuals. However, the adverse effects on microalgal growth, photosynthetic activity, and antioxidant system were alleviated with increasing exposure time. Meanwhile, C. pyrenoidosa efficiently removed FLX (67.59%-99.08%) and SER (94.92%-99.11%) individually after 11 days of cultivation. Biodegradation (59.25%-86.21%) was the prominent removal mechanism of FLX, while both biodegradation (48.08%-88.17%) and bioaccumulation (4.74%-43.38%) contributed significantly to SER removal. The co-existence of FLX and SER lowered the removal rate and biodegradation amount of both compounds. Besides, SER inhibited C. pyrenoidosa's N-demethylation and O-dealkylation of FLX, while co-existing with FLX inhibited the excretion of the N-deamination product of SER from microalgal cells. Furthermore, the principal component analysis indicated that the removal performance of FLX, SER, and their mixtures correlated strongly to the microalgae's physiological and biochemical states. These results highlighted the significance of co-contamination during ecological risk assessments and microalgae-based bioremediation of SSRIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxin Xie
- School of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Pengxiang Li
- School of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Xianyan Lei
- School of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Qiyue Tang
- School of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Jun Tang
- School of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China.
| | - Xiaolei He
- Anhui Huameng Environmental Engineering Technology Co., Ltd, Maanshan, 243000, China
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8
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Du X, Li B, Zhuang Z, Kuang K, Song W, Lin D, Fu C, Wang Z. Salt tide affecting algae-laden micropolluted surface water treatment and membrane performance based on BDD electro-oxidation coupled with ceramic membrane process. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116942. [PMID: 37633631 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Harmful algal blooms pose an emerging threat to freshwater ecological security and human health, necessitating further study in offshore areas. In this work, boron-doped diamond electro-oxidation (BDD/EO) coupled with a ceramic membrane filtration was employed aiming to assess the salt tide affecting algae-laden water treatment involving with various natural organic matters (e.g., HA, SA, and BSA). The results have demonstrated that BDD/EO remove chlorophyll from the algae-laden water effectively due to the inactivation of algal cells. Moreover, considering the influence of salt tide, NH3-N would be mainly oxidized through the in-situ generated active chlorine at the electrode-liquid interface. In addition, in three kinds of salt tide affecting algae-laden water, TOC content in BSA group was decreasing remarkably after BDD/EO with TOC removal efficiency above 80%; while those in HA and SA groups had no obvious reducing due to the more algae cells breakage synchronous with HA and SA removal. Based on the fluorescent characteristics and particle size distribution, the generated small molecular organics after electro-oxidation might raise the pore blockage probability and the hydrophobic organic and fluorescent substances were preferentially oxidized in BDD/EO process being beneficial to reducing membrane fouling. Besides, the membrane special flux in three groups were decreasing significantly and the irreversible fouling resistance in SA group accounted for a larger proportion of the total resistance than those of HA and BSA. At last, in BDD/EO-CM process, macromolecular substances degradation rate was greater than that of small molecules based on the molecular weight distribution in three groups of salt tide affected algae-laden water treatment. In a word, this work provides effective and innovative strategies for the harmful algal bloom control and contributes interesting insights of membrane fouling performance of electrochemical coupled ultrafiltration membrane process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Du
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Bingxuan Li
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Zhongjian Zhuang
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Ke Kuang
- Guangzhou Sewage Purification Co.,Ltd., Guangzhou, 510000, PR China.
| | - Wei Song
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Dachao Lin
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Caixia Fu
- Chinese Academy Science, Guangzhou Institute Energy Conversion, Guangzhou, 510640, PR China.
| | - Zhihong Wang
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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9
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Nguyen MK, Lin C, Nguyen HL, Le VG, Haddout S, Um MJ, Chang SW, Nguyen DD. Ecotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics on aquatic algae: Facts, challenges, and future opportunities. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 346:118982. [PMID: 37741192 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
The production of plastic has exponentially increased in recent years, leading to the release of millions of tons of plastic waste into the environment annually. This waste can break down into smaller micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) that are toxic and reactive to life forms, including humans. MNPs are particularly concerning for marine biologists and environmental scientists due to their toxic impacts on aquatic organisms, including algae, which are the foundation of the food chain. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the (eco)toxicity assessment of MNPs on aquatic algal communities, highlighting the novel insights gained into the ecotoxicity of various MNPs on algae and the associated health risks for aquatic ecosystems, food chains, and humans. This article also discusses current challenges and future research opportunities to address these challenges, making it a valuable contribution to the field of environmental science. Overall, this work is one of the first efforts to comprehensively assess the effects of MNPs on aquatic algae, emphasizing the significant risks that MNPs pose to essential ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ky Nguyen
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nong Lam University, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Hoang-Lam Nguyen
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Van-Giang Le
- Central Institute for Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, 111000, Viet Nam
| | - S Haddout
- Department of Physics, Ibn Tofail University, Morocco
| | - Myoung-Jin Um
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, 442-760, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon W Chang
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, 442-760, Republic of Korea
| | - D Duc Nguyen
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, 442-760, Republic of Korea; Faculty of Environmental and Food Engineering, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, HCM City 755414, Viet Nam.
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10
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Zheng Y, Addotey TNA, Chen J, Xu G. Effect of Polystyrene Microplastics on the Antioxidant System and Immune Response in GIFT ( Oreochromis niloticus). BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1430. [PMID: 37998029 PMCID: PMC10669825 DOI: 10.3390/biology12111430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed a significant presence of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater ecosystems, raising concerns about their potential negative impacts on the growth and development of freshwater organisms. The present study was conducted to examine the effects of chronic sub-lethal doses of polystyrene microsphere MPs on the oxidative status (ROS, SOD) and the immune response (IL-1ß, TNF-α) of genetically improved farmed tilapia (a kind of tilapia hereafter referred to as GIFT). GIFT juveniles (5.1 ± 0.2 g) were exposed to different concentrations of substances. The experimental groups were as follows: group A (control, no exposure), group B (exposed to a concentration of 75 nm), group C (exposed to a concentration of 7.5 μm), group D (exposed to a concentration of 750 μm), group E (exposed to a combination of 75 nm, 7.5 μm, and 750 μm), and group F (exposed to a combination of 75 nm and Chlorella). The ROS contents in the brain and gills were significantly decreased in group F, while a significant increase was observed in group D following a 14-day exposure. SOD activities in the intestine showed an elevation in group F, as did those in the brain and gills in group D, while the SOD levels in the gills generally decreased over time in groups B and F. Notably, the highest ROS and SOD were observed in the brain of group D, whereas the lowest were in the intestines at the same concentration. The activity of IL-1β in the liver was significantly up-regulated in all of the exposure groups. IL-1β was significantly up-regulated in the brain of group B and in the gills of group D. Similarly, TNF-α was significantly up-regulated in the brain of groups B/D/E, in the liver of groups B/C/D, in the intestine of group B, and in the gills of group D. Notably, the highest levels of IL-1β and TNF-α activities were recorded in the brain, while the lowest were recorded in the intestine of group D. Overall, this study revealed that GIFT's immune response and antioxidant system can be affected by MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Tracy Naa Adoley Addotey
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Jiazhang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
| | - Gangchun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Rice-Fish Farming Ecology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center (FFRC), Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, No. 9 Shanshui East Rd., Wuxi 214081, China;
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Zhao Y, Tao S, Liu S, Hu T, Zheng K, Shen M, Meng G. Research advances on impacts micro/nanoplastics and their carried pollutants on algae in aquatic ecosystems: A review. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 264:106725. [PMID: 37806023 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
The widespread presence of micro/nanoplastics in aquatic ecosystems has certainly affected ecosystem functions and food chains/webs. The impact is worsened by the accumulation of different pollutants and microorganisms on the surface of microplastics. At the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels, micro/nanoplastics and the contaminants they carry can cause damage to aquatic organisms. Problematically, the toxic mechanism of micro/nanoplastics and contaminants on aquatic organisms is still not fully understood. Algae are key organisms in the aquatic ecosystem, serving as primary producers. The investigation of the toxic effects and mechanisms of micro/nanoparticles and pollutants on algae can contribute to understanding the impact on the aquatic ecosystem. Micro/nanoplastics inhibit algal growth, reduce chlorophyll and photosynthesis, induce ultrastructural changes, and affect gene expression in algae. The effects of energy flow can alter the productivity of aquatic organisms. The type, particle size, and concentration of micro/nanoparticles can influence their toxic effects on algae. Although there has been some research on the toxic effects of algae, the limited information has led to a significant lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the interactions between micro/nanoplastics, pollutants, and algae. The effects of various factors on algal toxicity are also analyzed. In addition, this article discusses the combined effects of microplastics, global warming, and oil pollution on algae and aquatic ecosystems in the context of global change. This research is of great importance for predicting future environmental changes. This review offers a more comprehensive understanding of the interactions between microplastics/nanoplastics and algae, as well as their impact on the carbon cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- Department of Environment Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Zheng
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Guanhua Meng
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
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Pencik O, Molnarova K, Durdakova M, Kolackova M, Klofac D, Kucsera A, Capal P, Svec P, Bytesnikova Z, Richtera L, Brtnický M, Adam V, Huska D. Not so dangerous? PET microplastics toxicity on freshwater microalgae and cyanobacteria. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 329:121628. [PMID: 37059171 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae and cyanobacteria are among the most important primary producers and are responsible for the production of 50-80% of the oxygen on Earth. They can be significantly affected by plastic pollution, as the vast majority of plastic waste ends up in rivers and then the oceans. This research focuses on green microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris), Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii), filamentous cyanobacterium Limnospira (Arthrospira) maxima (L.(A.) maxima) and how they are affected by environmentally relevant PET-MPs (polyethylene-terephtalate microplastics). Manufactured PET-MPs have asymmetric shape, size between 3 and 7 μm and were used in concentrations ranging from 5 mg/L to 80 mg/L. The highest inhibitory rate of growth was found in C. reinhardtii (-24%). Concentration-dependent changes in chlorophyll a composition were found in C. vulgaris and C. reinhardtii, not in L. (A.) maxima. Furthermore, cell damage was detected in all three organisms by CRYO-SEM (shriveling, cell wall disruption), but the cyanobacterium was the least damaged. A PET-fingerprint was detected on the surface of all tested organisms using FTIR, indicating the adherence of PET-MPs. The highest rate of PET-MPs adsorption was detected in L. (A.) maxima. Specifically, characteristic spectra were observed at ∼721, 850, 1100, 1275, 1342, and 1715 cm-1 which are specific for functional groups of PET-MPs. Nitrogen and carbon content significantly increased in L. (A.) maxima under exposure to 80 mg/L due to the PET-MPs adherence and mechanical stress. In all three tested organisms, weak exposure-related ROS generation was detected. In general, cyanobacteria seem to be more resistant to the effects of MPs. However, organisms in the aquatic environment are exposed to MPs over a longer time scale, so it is important to use the present findings for further longer-term experiments on environmentally relevant organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondrej Pencik
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Katarina Molnarova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Durdakova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Kolackova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Klofac
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Attilla Kucsera
- Department of Molecular Biology and Radiobiology, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Capal
- Institute of Experimental Botany, Centre of the Region Hana for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Slechtitelu 241/27, 783 71, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Svec
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Bytesnikova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Richtera
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Brtnický
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dalibor Huska
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic.
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