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Mikac L, Gebavi H, Perrault J, Ivanda M. Development of a simple SERS substrate for the detection of pollutants and nanoplastics. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2025; 339:126255. [PMID: 40288020 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2025.126255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2025] [Accepted: 04/16/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025]
Abstract
This study investigates the development and characterisation of Ag- and Au-coated silicon filter substrates developed for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) applications. Silver nanoparticles were synthesised by immersing silicon filters in an AgNO3 solution, with the immersion time playing a crucial role in nanoparticle distribution and SERS efficiency. The highest performance was observed at an immersion time of 30-60 min and allowed the detection of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4-MBA) at nanomolar concentrations. To improve stability and tunability, gold was sputtered onto the Ag-coated substrates. Optimal performance was achieved with 6 min of Au sputtering, which allowed picomolar sensitivity for 4-MBA and micromolar detection of melamine. These substrates were further tested for the detection of polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene (PE) nanoplastic particles by Raman mapping with particles down to 50 nm. The successful identification showed great potential for the micro-Raman analysis of nanomaterials. The results emphasise the high sensitivity, versatility and ease of production of the SERS substrates and highlight their potential for applications in environmental and food monitoring, especially for the detection of nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Mikac
- Laboratory for Molecular Physics and Synthesis of New Materials, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Gebavi
- Laboratory for Molecular Physics and Synthesis of New Materials, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Justin Perrault
- Polytech Nantes, University of Nantes, Rue Christian Pauc, 44300 Nantes, France
| | - Mile Ivanda
- Laboratory for Molecular Physics and Synthesis of New Materials, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
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2
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Zhang Z, Liu S, Zeng D, Gu J, Cai T, Chen K, Zhou H, Dang Z, Yang C. Adsorption and desorption of phenanthrene and 1-hydroxyphenanthrene by goethite-coated polyvinyl chloride. J Environ Sci (China) 2025; 154:833-846. [PMID: 40049919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2024.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics loaded with phenanthrene and derivatives are widely detected in aquatic environments, and the coating of natural minerals or organic macromolecules may change the environmental behavior of microplastics. In this study, three kinds of composites with different coverage were prepared by coating goethite on the surface of polyvinyl chloride microplastics to investigate the adsorption and desorption behavior of phenanthrene (PHE) and 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1-OHPHE), and the effect of mucin on desorption was investigated. The results showed that goethite promoted the adsorption of PHE and 1-OHPHE by increasing the specific surface area of the composites. With the increase of the cover degree, the adsorption of PHE decreased because of the decrease in hydrophobicity; while the adsorption of 1-OHPHE initially increased and then decreased with the contributions of hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bond. The adsorption of 1-OHPHE could be influenced by the pH and ionic strength primarily through electrostatic interactions and Ca2+ bridging. The goethite significantly increased the desorption hysteresis for two chemicals due to the complicated pore structures and increased adsorption affinity. Mucin promoted the desorption of PHE through competitive adsorption, and inhibit the desorption of 1-OHPHE through hydrophobic interaction, hydrogen bonding and Ca2+ bridging. This study elucidated the effects of natural minerals on the adsorption and desorption behavior of organic pollutants on microplastics, briefly discussed the effects of organic macromolecules on the desorption behavior of pollutants with different properties, and emphasized the different environmental behaviors of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Zhang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuyue Liu
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Dehua Zeng
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jingyi Gu
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Tingting Cai
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ketong Chen
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhi Dang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chen Yang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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3
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Zhu R, Tan X, Ali I, Duan Z, Wei Y, Huang J, Liang J, Sun K. Eco-corona formation on aminated nanoplastics interacted with extracellular polymeric substances from bloom-forming cyanobacteria: Insightful mechanisms with DFT study. WATER RESEARCH 2025; 278:123394. [PMID: 40037098 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2025.123394] [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: 11/05/2024] [Revised: 01/13/2025] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) with amino functional groups have wide distribution and high toxicity; however, their environmental behaviors remain inadequately understood. This study investigated the mechanisms of eco-corona formation on pristine polystyrene NPs (PSNPs) and aminated PSNPs (PSNPs-NH2) by extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from a bloom-forming cyanobacterium, Microcystis aeruginosa. Our results revealed that at the two tested concentrations of EPS (5.0 and 30.0 mg/L), the pristine PSNPs initially aggregated and subsequently repelled. In contrast, PSNPs-NH2 showed a more pronounced aggregation at the elevated EPS concentration of 30 mg/L. In addition, the elemental compositions and functional groups on both types of PSNPs were markedly altered after eco-corona formation. Combining with density functional theory, our findings indicated that electrostatic interaction, hydrogen bonding, and Van der Waals force served as the main binding forces between model EPS (polysaccharide) and PSNPs units. Furthermore, the binding energies of pristine PSNPs-, and PSNPs-NH2-polysaccharide were calculated to be -63.25 and -179.43 kJ/mol, respectively, suggesting a greater affinity of PSNPs-NH2 for polysaccharide. This outcome aligned with our experimental observation. Specifically, the xylose branch within polysaccharide was identified as an optimized binding site for interaction with PSNPs. Our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental behaviors of aminated NPs in freshwater systems, particularly during periods of cyanobacterial blooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Xiao Tan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Imran Ali
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Zhipeng Duan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Yijia Wei
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jiang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jia Liang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Kai Sun
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Farmland Ecological Conservation and Pollution Prevention, College of Resources and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, PR China; CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, PR China
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4
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Bucher G, Schirinzi GF, Verra C, El Hadri H, Geiss O, Gilliland D. Total organic carbon (TOC): a simple tool for assessing micro(nano)plastics and nanocellulose recovery during size-based fractionation. Anal Bioanal Chem 2025; 417:2983-2996. [PMID: 40383734 PMCID: PMC12103321 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-025-05812-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2025] [Accepted: 02/20/2025] [Indexed: 05/20/2025]
Abstract
The assessment of analyte recovery during sample preparation is a critical quality control parameter in method development. While elemental mass spectrometry techniques, such as ICP-MS, are very effective for assessing the recovery of particulate materials containing metallic elements, there is no equivalent applicable to metal-free carbon or CHNO-based particulate polymer materials. Vibrational spectro-microscopy or thermo-analytical techniques can be used to quantify polymer-based micro- and nanoparticles, but are typically expensive and time-consuming techniques that require higher levels of expertise. This study investigated the potential of a liquid-based total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer as a simple, cost-effective, and universal method for determining the recovery of polymer-based particulate micro- and nanomaterials following filtration, centrifugation, and asymmetric flow field flow fractionation (AF4) processes. A good correlation between solid contents and TOC analysis was demonstrated for standard polystyrene (PS) particle suspensions of various sizes, ranging from 50 nm to 90 μm (79.2 to 113.6% recovery), and other types of synthetic and natural polymeric particle suspensions, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and cellulose (86.2 to 126.2% recovery). Liquid-based TOC was then successfully applied to estimate particle recovery after various preparatory and fractionation steps, including the determination of filtration recoveries for nanocellulose suspensions (99.0 to 101.4% recovery) and PS micro- and nanoparticles spiked into environmental lake and river freshwater samples (70 to 96% recovery). The combination of TOC and single particle extinction and scattering (SPES) measurements allowed the tracking and quantification of three different populations of PS particles in a mixture (200, 500, and 1000 nm) during successive centrifugation steps (113.8 ± 13.9% cumulative recovery). Finally, this study demonstrated the suitability of TOC for determining both the absolute and relative recoveries of polymer-based particulate materials after AF4 fractionation in line with ISO standards. Liquid-based TOC proved to be a valuable tool for directly tracking, quantifying, and evaluating the recovery of polymer-based micro- and nanoparticles in model and environmental water samples before and after routine size-based fractionation steps.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chiara Verra
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Hind El Hadri
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Otmar Geiss
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
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5
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Lopez GL, Lamarre A. The impact of micro- and nanoplastics on immune system development and functions: Current knowledge and future directions. Reprod Toxicol 2025; 135:108951. [PMID: 40412669 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2025.108951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2025] [Revised: 05/16/2025] [Accepted: 05/18/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastics (MPs)/ nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment has raised significant concerns regarding their potential toxicity, particularly their impact on biological systems. These particles, particularly NPs, possess unique properties due to their small size and high surface area, enabling them to more easily cross biological barriers and accumulate in tissues. Among various types of plastic materials, polystyrene (PS) is one of the most studied for its toxicological effects, given its widespread use and environmental persistence. This narrative review examines current research on the effects of MPs/NPs, on the immune system, with a focus on both the development of the immune system and its functional responses. Evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies suggests that MP/NP exposure can disrupt immune function, including hematopoiesis, immune cell activation, and the production of inflammatory cytokines. Although in vitro studies highlight cellular toxicity and altered immune cell behavior, in vivo studies reveal more complex outcomes, with some findings suggesting significant effects on organ systems such as the spleen and intestines, while others indicate minimal or no impact under environmentally relevant exposure conditions. Here, we aim to consolidate and summarize the current evidence on the topic, highlight key limitations in the field, and identify areas that warrant further investigation for immunotoxicologists. In addition, we emphasize the importance of using relevant exposure concentrations and complex in vitro or in vivo models to better understand the potential risks associated with MP/NP exposure and their long-term implications for immune health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume L Lopez
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Alain Lamarre
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada.
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6
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Pradel A, Hufenus R, Schneebeli M, Mitrano DM. Impact of contaminant size and density on their incorporation into sea ice. Nat Commun 2025; 16:4375. [PMID: 40355447 PMCID: PMC12069638 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-59608-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/14/2025] Open
Abstract
Sea ice accumulates contaminants and redistributes them laterally as the ice drifts and vertically as it melts. Contaminant incorporation into sea ice must be better understood to resolve contaminant cycling and exposure to polar organisms. Here we develop an experimental method that mimics the formation of young sea ice and enables the quantification of model contaminants separately in the ice matrix and brine. Several limitations inherent in field studies are overcome using this approach. Results show that dissolved contaminants (<1 nm) and dispersed colloidal contaminants (1 nm-1 μm) follow the same behavior as sea salts. When colloids aggregate they follow a similar transport pathway to high-density particulate contaminants (>1 μm). While high-density particles are depleted in sea ice and low-density particles are enriched relative to their initial concentration in seawater, both are engulfed and can travel in wide brine channels. These results can also help to predict the incorporation of natural species in sea ice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Pradel
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics (IBP), Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Rudolf Hufenus
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory of Advanced Fibers, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Martin Schneebeli
- WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics (IBP), Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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7
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Lopez GL, Adda-Bouchard Y, Laulhé X, Chamberlain G, Bourguignon L, Charpentier T, Cyr DG, Lamarre A. Short-term oral exposure to nanoplastics does not significantly impact the antiviral immune response of the mouse. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 488:137316. [PMID: 39854993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137316] [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: 10/17/2024] [Revised: 01/10/2025] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment, particularly polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles, raises concerns regarding their potential impact on human and animal health. Given their small size, NPs can cross biological barriers and accumulate in organs, including those critical for immune functions. This study investigates the effects of short-term oral exposure to 100 and 500 nm PS NPs on the adaptive immune responses during viral infections in vivo, using vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) as models. Male and female C57BL/6 mice were orally exposed to PS NP for a period of 28 days, during which they were infected with either VSV or LCMV to study the humoral and cellular responses, respectively. The humoral responses were assessed by measuring total and VSV-specific antibody levels, and splenic immune populations. T cell phenotypes, activation, exhaustion and functionality towards LCMV epitopes were studied as readouts of the cellular responses. Our results demonstrate that short-term NP exposure does not significantly affect the generation or neutralizing capacity of antibodies against VSV, nor the cellular responses directed against LCMV. These findings indicate that, under these conditions, PS NP exposure does not significantly compromise the adaptive immune responses during viral infections, underscoring the value of in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume L Lopez
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Yasmine Adda-Bouchard
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Xavier Laulhé
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Gabriel Chamberlain
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Léa Bourguignon
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Tania Charpentier
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Alain Lamarre
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada.
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8
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Gong L, Varela B, Eskandari E, Lombana JZ, Biswas P, Ma L, Andreu I, Lin Y. Machine learning-driven optical microfiltration device for improved nanoplastic sampling and detection in water systems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 494:138472. [PMID: 40319852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2025] [Revised: 03/25/2025] [Accepted: 05/01/2025] [Indexed: 05/07/2025]
Abstract
The rising presence of nanoplastics in water poses toxicity risks and long-term ecological and health impacts. Detecting nanoplastics remains challenging due to their small size, complex chemistry, and environmental interference. Traditional filtration combined with Raman spectroscopy is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and often lacks accuracy and sensitivity. This study presents an agarose-based microfiltration device integrated with machine learning-assisted Raman analysis for nanoplastic capture and identification. The 1 % agarose microfluidic channel features circular micropost arrays enabling dual filtration: nanoplastics diffuse into the porous matrix, while larger particles (>1000 nm) are blocked by the microposts. Unlike conventional systems, this design achieves both physical separation and preconcentration, enhancing nanoplastic detectability. Upon dehydration, the agarose forms a transparent film, significantly improving Raman compatibility by minimizing background interference. This transformation enables direct Raman analysis of retained nanoparticles with enhanced signal clarity and sensitivity. Using 100-nm polystyrene nanoparticles (PSNPs) as a model, we evaluated device performance in distilled water and seawater across concentrations (6.25-50 µg/mL) and flow rates (2.5-100 µL/min). Maximum capture efficiencies of 80 % (seawater) and 66 % (distilled water) were achieved at 2.5 µL/min. A convolutional neural network (CNN) further enhanced spectral analysis, reducing mapping time by 50 % and enabling PSNP detection in seawater at 6.25 µg/mL. This agarose-based system offers a scalable, cost-effective platform for nanoplastic sampling, demonstrating the potential of combining microfluidics with machine learning-assisted Raman spectroscopy to address critical environmental and public health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Gong
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Bryan Varela
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Erfan Eskandari
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Juan Zubieta Lombana
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Payel Biswas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Luyao Ma
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, United States; Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, United States
| | - Irene Andreu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States
| | - Yang Lin
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, United States.
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9
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Abdolahpur Monikh F, Quik JTK, Wiesner MR, Tapparo A, Pastore P, Grossart HP, Akkanen J, Kortet R, Kukkonen JV. Importance of Attachment Efficiency in Determining the Fate of PS and PVC Nanoplastic Heteroaggregation with Natural Colloids Using a Multimedia Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2025; 59:4674-4683. [PMID: 40025674 PMCID: PMC11912305 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c10918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2025] [Accepted: 02/20/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
Here, we assessed the heteroaggregation of polystyrene (PS) and poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) nanoplastics with SiO2 as a model of natural colloids. Homoaggregation and heteroaggregation were evaluated as a function of CaCl2 (0-100 mM) and natural organic matter (NOM) (50 mg L-1) at a designated concentration of nanoplastics (200 μg L-1). Critical coagulation concentrations (CCC) of nanoplastics were determined in homoaggregation and heteroaggregation experiments with SiO2 and CaCl2. The attachment efficiency (α) was calculated by quantifying the number of nanoplastics in the presence of CaCl2, NOM, and SiO2 using single-particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS) and pseudo-first-order kinetics. The calculated α was fed into the SimpleBox4Plastics model to predict the fate of nanoplastics across air, water, soil, and sediment compartments. Nanoplastics exhibited high stability against homoaggregation, while significant heteroaggregation with SiO2 occurred at CaCl2 concentrations above 100 mM. The influence of NOM was also evaluated, showing a reduction in heteroaggregation with SiO2 for both nanoplastic types. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the degradation half-life of the tested nanoplastics had a more significant impact on persistence than did α. The results emphasize the environmental stability of nanoplastics, particularly in freshwater and soil compartments, and the critical role of NOM and emission pathways in determining their fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazel Abdolahpur Monikh
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Francesco Marzolo, 1, 35122 Padua, Italy
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
- Institute
for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Joris T. K. Quik
- National
Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Centre for Sustainability, Health and Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Mark R. Wiesner
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Center for
the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology (CEINT), Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Andrea Tapparo
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Francesco Marzolo, 1, 35122 Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Pastore
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Francesco Marzolo, 1, 35122 Padua, Italy
| | - Hans-Peter Grossart
- Department
of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz
Institute for Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Stechlin, 16775 Berlin, Germany
- Institute
of Biochemistry and Biology, Potsdam University, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Jarkko Akkanen
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Raine Kortet
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Jussi V.K. Kukkonen
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio 70211, Finland
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10
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Zhang C, Zhou Z, Xi M, Ma H, Qin J, Jia H. Molecular modeling to elucidate the dynamic interaction process and aggregation mechanism between natural organic matters and nanoplastics. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2025; 4:100122. [PMID: 39882185 PMCID: PMC11773237 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2025]
Abstract
The interactions of nanoplastics (NPs) with natural organic matters (NOMs) dominate the environmental fate of both substances and the organic carbon cycle. Their binding and aggregation mechanisms at the molecular level remain elusive due to the high structural complexity of NOMs and aged NPs. Molecular modeling was used to understand the detailed dynamic interaction mechanism between NOMs and NPs. Advanced humic acid models were used, and three types of NPs, i.e., polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS), were investigated. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed the geometrical change of the spontaneous formation of NOMs-NPs supramolecular assemblies. The results showed that pristine NPs initially tend to aggregate homogeneously due to their hydrophobic nature, and then NOM fragments are bound to the formed NP aggregates mainly by vdW interaction. Homo- and hetero-aggregation between NOMs and aged NPs occur simultaneously through various mechanisms, including intermolecular forces and Ca2+ bridging effect, eventually resulting in a mixture of supramolecular structures. Density functional theory calculations were employed to characterize the surface properties and reactivity of the NP monomers. The molecular polarity indices for unaged PE, PS, and PVC were 3.1, 8.5, and 22.2 kcal/mol, respectively, which increased to 43.2, 51.6, and 42.2 kcal/mol for aged NPs, respectively, indicating the increase in polarity after aging. The vdW and electrostatic potentials of NP monomers were visualized. These results clarified the fundamental aggregation processes, and mechanisms between NPs and NOMs, providing a complete molecular picture of the interactions of nanoparticles in the natural aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Low-Carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhou
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Mengning Xi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Haozhe Ma
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Junhao Qin
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hanzhong Jia
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Low-Carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Xianyang 712100, China
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11
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Ko K, Chung H. Colloidal stability of UV-aged and protein-coated nanoplastics in natural waters under warming. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 368:125772. [PMID: 39892457 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.125772] [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: 09/22/2024] [Revised: 01/16/2025] [Accepted: 01/29/2025] [Indexed: 02/03/2025]
Abstract
Nanoplastics, particles smaller than 1000 nm that are produced by degradation of plastic debris, pose an environmental threat and may endanger natural ecosystems and human health. In aquatic environments, the large surface area and high surface energy of NPs facilitate their interactions with the surroundings; thus, understanding their behavior, transport, and fate is essential. In this study, we investigated the individual and combined effects of UV aging and protein coating on the stability of NPs in aquatic environments under elevated temperatures. UV-aged NPs were created via indoor UV lamp exposure, and protein coating was achieved by introducing bovine serum albumin (BSA). Sequential processes produced UV + BSA and BSA + UV-coated NPs for comprehensive analysis. Aggregation kinetics and stability were examined in electrolyte solutions (NaCl and CaCl2) and natural waters. Results indicated that BSA coating improved the colloidal stability of NPs in electrolyte solutions by promoting steric repulsion, a trend observed in rivers, lakes, and seawater but not in groundwater. Sequential UV aging after BSA coating caused protein denaturation, reducing the stability of NPs. Additionally, increased temperatures led to a greater level of NP aggregation due to lower energy barriers. These findings highlight UV aging, protein coating, and temperature as critical factors influencing the behavior and fate of NPs in natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwanyoung Ko
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Haegeun Chung
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea.
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12
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Al Harraq A, Brahana PJ, Bharti B. Colloid and Interface Science for Understanding Microplastics and Developing Remediation Strategies. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2025; 41:4412-4421. [PMID: 39951827 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c03856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) originate from industrial production of <1 mm polymeric particles and from the progressive breakdown of larger plastic debris. Their environmental behavior is governed by their interfacial properties, which dominate due to their small size. This Perspective highlights the complex surface chemistry of MPs under environmental stressors and discusses how physical attributes like shape and roughness could influence their fate. We further identify wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) as critical hotspots for MP accumulation, where the MPs are inadvertently transferred to sewage sludge and reintroduced into the environment. We emphasize the potential of colloid and interfacial science not only to improve our fundamental understanding of MPs but also to advance mitigation strategies in hotspots such as WWTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Al Harraq
- Joseph Henry Laboratories, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
| | - Philip J Brahana
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Bhuvnesh Bharti
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
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13
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Adamiak K, Sidoryk-Węgrzynowicz M, Dąbrowska-Bouta B, Sulkowski G, Strużyńska L. Primary astrocytes as a cellular depot of polystyrene nanoparticles. Sci Rep 2025; 15:6502. [PMID: 39987253 PMCID: PMC11846901 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-91248-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2025] [Indexed: 02/24/2025] Open
Abstract
The continuous increase in plastic production has resulted in increased generation of microplastic particles (MPs), and nanoplastic particles (NPs). Recent evidence suggests that nanoplastics may be a potent neurotoxin because they are able to freely cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain. Therefore, the cytotoxic effects of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) on cellular systems of cerebral origin should be thoroughly investigated. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of 25 nm PS-NPs on in vitro cultured cells such as primary astrocytes, neurons and their co-cultures established from the cerebral cortex of Wistar pups. The results show that PS-NPs are internalized in both neurons and astrocytes, inducing time- and concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects. However, quantification of fluorescence intensity indicates cell type-dependent differences in the efficiency of PS-NPs uptake. Astrocytes are several times more efficient at accumulating PS-NPs than neurons, and this is a phagocytosis-dependent process. Moreover, the high rate of PS-NPs internalization during prolonged exposure (72 h) promotes astroglial activation, as assessed by analysis of GFAP expression and immunocytochemical imaging. The results show that astroglia act as a cellular depot of PS-NPs to protect neurons. However, once the critical threshold is exceeded, astroglia become overactivated and can lose their protective functions. These results highlight the importance of further research on the mechanisms underlying nanoplastic-induced cellular toxicity, which may have implications for understanding the broader impact of plastic pollution on neurological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Adamiak
- Laboratory of Pathoneurochemistry, Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
- Doctoral School of Translational Medicine, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 99/103 Marymoncka Str., 01-813, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Sidoryk-Węgrzynowicz
- Laboratory of Pathoneurochemistry, Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Dąbrowska-Bouta
- Laboratory of Pathoneurochemistry, Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Sulkowski
- Laboratory of Pathoneurochemistry, Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lidia Strużyńska
- Laboratory of Pathoneurochemistry, Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.
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14
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da Silva Antunes JC, Sobral P, Branco V, Martins M. Uncovering layer by layer the risk of nanoplastics to the environment and human health. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2025; 28:63-121. [PMID: 39670667 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2024.2424156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs), defined as plastic particles with dimensions less than 100 nm, have emerged as a persistent environmental contaminant with potential risk to both environment and human health. Nanoplastics might translocate across biological barriers and accumulate in vital organs, leading to inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity, already reported in several organisms. Disruptions to cellular functions, hormonal balance, and immune responses were also linked to NPs exposure in in vitro assays. Further, NPs have been found to adsorb other pollutants, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and leach additives potentially amplifying their advere impacts, increasing the threat to organisms greater than NPs alone. However, NPs toxic effects remain largely unexplored, requiring further research to elucidate potential risks to human health, especially their accumulation, degradation, migration, interactions with the biological systems and long-term consequences of chronic exposure to these compounds. This review provides an overview of the current state-of-art regarding NPs interactions with environmental pollutants and with biological mechanisms and toxicity within cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Cepeda da Silva Antunes
- MARE-NOVA - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, Department of Sciences and Environmental Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Paula Sobral
- MARE-NOVA - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, Department of Sciences and Environmental Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Vasco Branco
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Martins
- MARE-NOVA - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, Department of Sciences and Environmental Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
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15
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Pirade F, Foppen JW, van der Hoek JP, Lompe KM. Polystyrene nanoplastics are unlikely to aggregate in freshwater bodies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 366:125393. [PMID: 39586453 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.125393] [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: 08/05/2024] [Revised: 11/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/22/2024] [Indexed: 11/27/2024]
Abstract
The fate and toxicity of nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment is largely determined by their stability. We explored how water composition, nanoplastic size, and surface carboxyl group density influenced the aggregation of polystyrene (PS) NPs in fresh water. Unfunctionalized 200, 300, 500, and 1000 nm PS NPs and 310 nm carboxylated PS NPs with carboxyl group densities of 0.35 and 0.6 mmol g-1 were used to simulate pristine and aged NPs. Natural water matrices tested in this study include synthetic surface water (SSW), water from the Schie canal (Netherlands) and tap water. Suwannee River Natural Organic Matter (SRNOM) was included to mimic organic matter concentrations. In CaCl2, we found PS NPs are more stable as their size increases with the increase of the critical coagulation concentration (CCC) from 44 mM to 59 mM and 77 mM for NP sizes of 200 nm, 300 nm and 500 nm. Conversely, 1000 nm PS NPs remained stable even at 100 mM CaCl2. Increasing the carboxyl group density decreased the stability of NPs as a result of the interaction between Ca2+ and the carboxyl group. These results were consistent with the mass of Ca2+ adsorbed per mass of NPs. The presence of SRNOM decreased the stability of PS NPs via particle bridging facilitated by SRNOM. However, in SSW, Schie water and tap water with low divalent cation concentrations, the hydrodynamic size of PS NPs did not change, even at prolonged durations up to one week. We concluded that PS NPs are unlikely to aggregate in water with low divalent cation concentrations, like natural freshwater bodies. Ecotoxicologists and water treatment engineers will have to consider treating PS NPs as colloidally stable particles as the lack of aggregation in fresh surface water bodies will affect their ecotoxicity and may pose challenges to their removal in water treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Februriyana Pirade
- Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, Netherlands.
| | - Jan Willem Foppen
- Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, Netherlands
| | - Jan Peter van der Hoek
- Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, Netherlands; Waternet, Korte Ouderkerkerdijk 7, 1096AC Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kim Maren Lompe
- Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, Netherlands
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16
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Xu Y, Wang X, van der Hoek JP, Liu G, Lompe KM. Natural Organic Matter Stabilizes Pristine Nanoplastics but Destabilizes Photochemical Weathered Nanoplastics in Monovalent Electrolyte Solutions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2025; 59:1822-1834. [PMID: 39813155 PMCID: PMC11780734 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c11540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 12/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2025] [Indexed: 01/18/2025]
Abstract
Photochemical weathering and eco-corona formation through natural organic matter (NOM) adsorption play vital roles in the aggregation tendencies of nanoplastics (NPs) in aquatic environments. However, it remains unclear how photochemical weathering alters the adsorption patterns of NOM and the conformation of the eco-corona, subsequently affecting the aggregation tendencies of NPs. This study examined the effect of Suwannee River NOM adsorption on the aggregation kinetics of pristine and photoaged polystyrene (PS) NPs in monovalent electrolyte solutions. The results showed that photochemical weathering influenced the conformation of the eco-corona, which, in turn, determined NP stability in the presence of NOM. Hydrophobic components of NOM predominantly bound to pristine NPs through hydrophobic and π-π interactions, and extended hydrophilic segments in water hindered NP aggregation via steric repulsion. Conversely, hydrogen bonding facilitated the binding of these hydrophilic segments to multiple photoaged NPs, thereby destabilizing them through polymer bridging. Additionally, the stabilization and destabilization capacities of NOM increased with its concentration and molecular weight. These findings shed light on the destabilizing role of NOM in weathered NPs, offering new perspectives on environmental colloidal chemistry and the fate of NPs in complex aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanghui Xu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Xintu Wang
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
| | - Jan Peter van der Hoek
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- Waternet,
Department Research & Innovation,
P.O. Box 94370, 1090 GJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gang Liu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kim Maren Lompe
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
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17
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Nakatani H, Yamaguchi T, Asano M, Motokucho S, Dao ATN, Kim HJ, Yagi M, Kyozuka Y. Differences in Nanoplastic Formation Behavior Between High-Density Polyethylene and Low-Density Polyethylene. Molecules 2025; 30:382. [PMID: 39860252 PMCID: PMC11767353 DOI: 10.3390/molecules30020382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2024] [Revised: 12/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) films were used to create nanoplastic (NP) models, with the shape of delamination occurring during degradation. In the case of HDPE, selective degradation occurred not only in the amorphous part, but also in the crystalline part at the same time. Some of the lamellae that extend radially to form the spherulite structure were missing during the 30-day degradation. The length of these defects was less than 1 µm. HDPE disintegrated within units of spherulite structure by conformational defects in lamellae, and the size of the fragments obtained had a wide distribution. LDPE was synthesized by radical polymerization, so it contained a cross-linked part. The part was not sufficiently fused, and when it degraded, it delaminated and separated preferentially. The zeta potential reached a minimum value of approximately -20 mV at the degradation time of 21 days, and then increased. This complex dependence on degradation time was due to NP particle aggregation. The addition of 1% Triton(R) X-114 surfactant was effective in stabilizing the NP dispersion. The particle size remained constant at around 20 nm for degradation times of 15-30 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Nakatani
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (M.A.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
| | - Teruyuki Yamaguchi
- Graduate School of Engineering Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
| | - Mika Asano
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (M.A.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
| | - Suguru Motokucho
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (M.A.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
| | - Anh Thi Ngoc Dao
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Chemistry and Materials Engineering Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (M.A.); (S.M.); (A.T.N.D.)
| | - Hee-Jin Kim
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology Fisheries Bioresources Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (H.-J.K.); (M.Y.)
| | - Mitsuharu Yagi
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology Fisheries Bioresources Program, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan; (H.-J.K.); (M.Y.)
| | - Yusaku Kyozuka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan;
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18
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Schirinzi GF, Bucher G, de Passos MSP, Modesto V, Serra MÁ, Gilliland D, Riccardi N, Ponti J. Exploring Nanoplastics Bioaccumulation in Freshwater Organisms: A Study Using Gold-Doped Polymeric Nanoparticles. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2025; 15:116. [PMID: 39852731 PMCID: PMC11767279 DOI: 10.3390/nano15020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2024] [Revised: 01/08/2025] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 01/26/2025]
Abstract
The evaluation of nanoplastics bioaccumulation in living organisms is still considered an emerging challenge, especially as global plastic production continues to grow, posing a significant threat to humans, animals, and the environment. The goal of this work is to advance the development of standardized methods for reliable biomonitoring in the future. It is crucial to employ sensitive techniques that can detect and measure nanoplastics effectively, while ensuring minimal impact on the environment. To understand nanoplastics retention by freshwater organisms, phyto- and zooplankton, and mussels were exposed to gold-doped polymeric nanoparticles synthesized in our laboratory. The results demonstrated that measuring gold content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), along with confirmation of its presence through electron microscopy in selected exposed samples provides insight into the accumulation and release of nanoplastics by organisms playing a relevant ecological role at the early levels of aquatic food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella F. Schirinzi
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy; (G.F.S.); (G.B.); (M.S.P.d.P.); (M.-Á.S.); (D.G.)
| | - Guillaume Bucher
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy; (G.F.S.); (G.B.); (M.S.P.d.P.); (M.-Á.S.); (D.G.)
| | | | - Vanessa Modesto
- Water Research Institute (IRSA), National Research Council (CNR), 28922 Pallanza, Italy; (V.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Miguel-Ángel Serra
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy; (G.F.S.); (G.B.); (M.S.P.d.P.); (M.-Á.S.); (D.G.)
| | - Douglas Gilliland
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy; (G.F.S.); (G.B.); (M.S.P.d.P.); (M.-Á.S.); (D.G.)
| | - Nicoletta Riccardi
- Water Research Institute (IRSA), National Research Council (CNR), 28922 Pallanza, Italy; (V.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Jessica Ponti
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), 21027 Ispra, Italy; (G.F.S.); (G.B.); (M.S.P.d.P.); (M.-Á.S.); (D.G.)
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19
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Gigault J, Davranche M. Nanoplastics in focus: Exploring interdisciplinary approaches and future directions. NANOIMPACT 2025; 37:100544. [PMID: 39848489 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2025.100544] [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: 09/26/2024] [Revised: 01/13/2025] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 01/25/2025]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are gaining increasing attention due to their widespread distribution and potential environmental and biological impacts. Spanning a variety of ecosystems - from soils and rivers to oceans and polar ice - NPs interact with complex biological and geochemical processes, posing risks to organisms across multiple trophic levels. Despite their growing presence, understanding the behavior, transport, and toxicity of nanoplastics remains challenging due to their diverse physical and chemical properties as well as the heterogeneity of environmental matrices. Currently, nanoplastics are often studied alongside microplastics as a single, homogeneous group, which obscures the nuanced behavior of NPs, particularly in terms of their colloidal properties and interactions within ecosystems. This perspective aims to highlight the critical gaps in nanoplastics research, stressing the importance for field studies and advanced detection/quantification methods to better capture their behavior across environmental interfaces. We advocate for a more integrated approach that account for the dynamic interactions between nanoplastics and surrounding biological, chemical, and physical environments, especially across key ecological gradients. Furthermore, long-term and transgenerational studies are essential to assess the chronic impacts of low-concentration nanoplastics exposure. Innovative and appropriate methodologies are needed to explore NP fate, transport, and toxicity in realistic environmental conditions. By combining advanced experimental tools, field studies, and ecological modeling frameworks, this paper outlines provides a roadmap for advancing our understanding of nanoplastics and their broader ecological impacts, ultimately shaping more effective environmental monitoring and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Gigault
- Takuvik Laboratory, CNRS/Université Laval, 1045 Avenue de la Médecine, G1V 0A6 Québec, QC, Canada.
| | - Mélanie Davranche
- Géosciences Rennes, CNRS/Université Rennes, 263 av. Général Leclerc, 35000 Rennes, France
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20
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Lerchner T, Jedlička J, Kripnerová M, Dejmek J, Kuncová J. Influence of micro- and nanoplastics on mitochondrial function in the cardiovascular system: a review of the current literature. Physiol Res 2024; 73:S685-S695. [PMID: 39808171 PMCID: PMC11827056 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria represent pivotal cellular organelles endowed with multifaceted functionalities encompassing cellular respiration, metabolic processes, calcium turnover, and the regulation of apoptosis, primarily through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Perturbations in mitochondrial dynamics have been intricately linked to the etiology of numerous cardiovascular pathologies, such as heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and various cardiomyopathies. Notably, recent attention has been directed towards the detrimental impact of micro- and nanoplastic pollution on mitochondrial integrity, an area underscored by a paucity of comprehensive investigations. Given the escalating prevalence of plastic particle contamination and the concomitant burden of cardiovascular disease in aging populations, understanding the interplay between mitochondria within the cardiovascular system and micro- and nanoplastic pollution assumes paramount importance. This review endeavors to elucidate the current albeit limited comprehension surrounding this complex interplay. Key words Mitochondria, Nanoplastics, Microplastics, Cardiovascular system, Endothelial function, Oxidative phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Lerchner
- Institute of Physiology, Biomedical Centre, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Plzen, Plzen, Czech Republic.
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21
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Zhang Y, Gutierrez L, Benedetti MF, Croué JP. Impact of electrolyte and natural organic matter characteristics on the aggregation and sedimentation of polystyrene nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 955:177131. [PMID: 39490834 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 10/08/2024] [Accepted: 10/19/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are increasingly pervasive in ecosystems worldwide, raising concerns about their persistence and mobility in the environment. Our study focused on the interactions between polystyrene nanoplastics (PS NPs, Do:~200 nm) and Natural Organic Matter (NOM) uniquely isolated from water bodies under different electrolyte and temperature conditions (i.e., effectively mimicking a wide range of environmental scenarios). The selected dissolved NOM (DOM) fractions of varied physical chemical characteristics and geographical origins include: the hydrophobic acid (HPOA) fraction from the South Platte River (SPR HPOA, USA), the biopolymer/colloid fractions from Cazaux Lake (CL BIOP, France), and the dissolved fraction of the biofilm recovered from a nanofiltration-fouled module at the Méry-sur-Oise drinking water treatment plant (NF BIOP, France). The biopolymers (NF BIOP and CL BIOP) clearly hindered PS NPs aggregation through steric effects, forming a protective eco-corona, enhancing PS NPs stability, and inhibiting sedimentation in the long term, compared to HPOA. The temperature impacted the homo and hetero-aggregation of PS NPs differently, illustrating the complex interplay between thermal effects and NOMs stabilizing interactions. Furthermore, the seldom-explored aspect of the sequential introduction of reactants into the solution during aggregation experiments (i.e., which simulates a realistic scenario: the transport of PS NPs from one aquatic system to another of different compositions) was also investigated. This study provides essential insights into the dynamic behavior of PS NPs in environmental matrices and crucial knowledge for predicting nanoplastic interactions in complex ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhang
- IC2MP (UMR CNRS 7285), Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Marcel Doré, 86000 Poitiers, France; Université Paris Cité, Institut de physique du globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - L Gutierrez
- IC2MP (UMR CNRS 7285), Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Marcel Doré, 86000 Poitiers, France; Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium; Facultad del Mar y Medio Ambiente, Universidad del Pacifico, Ecuador
| | - M F Benedetti
- Université Paris Cité, Institut de physique du globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - J P Croué
- IC2MP (UMR CNRS 7285), Université de Poitiers, 1 rue Marcel Doré, 86000 Poitiers, France.
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22
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Liu Y, Ma J, Feng B, Zhang X, Zhao Y, Weng L, Chen Y, Xie H, Li Y. Effect of isomeric polysaccharides on heteroaggregation of nanoplastics in high ionic strength conditions: Synergies of morphology and molecular conformation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 480:135818. [PMID: 39307017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 12/01/2024]
Abstract
Polysaccharides with various molecular structures and morphology may influence the aggregation kinetics of nanoplastics. This study used various characterization methods to elucidate the heteroaggregation mechanism of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) in the presence of polysaccharides (ionic strength (IS) 1-800 mM NaCl and 0.01-60 mM CaCl2). The results showed that under high IS, cellulose (CL) accelerated the heteroaggregation of PSNPs, and the aggregation rate of PSNPs increased by approximately 62.05 %, while amylose (AM) had little effect (10.38 %). Compared with AM (43.2 nm), the morphology of the CL (78.4 nm) gully had improved surface roughness, leading to its decisive role in the heteroaggregation of PSNPs. Quantum chemistry calculations indicated that van der Waals forces of PSNPs-CL systems (-217.28 kJ mol-1) were stronger than those of PSNPs-AM systems (-184.62 kJ mol-1) based on the subtle molecular conformation differences between CL and AM (opposite and same sides of OH groups in CL and AM, respectively). The morphology and molecular conformation of polysaccharides collaboratively controlled the heteroaggregation of PSNPs. Because the morphology of polysaccharides was based on their molecular conformation, the latter is the most critical factor. These findings provide new insights into the effects of PSNPs stability in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China.
| | - Bingcong Feng
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Liping Weng
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Department of Soil Quality, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Yali Chen
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-Product Quality Safety, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China; Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Haijiao Xie
- Hangzhou Yanqu Information Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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23
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Liu X, Yuan Q, Ding J, Li Y, Liu X, Fang C, Wang M. A perspective on the algae-derived dissolved organic matter and its dynamic influence on the aggregation of nanoplastics in eutrophic waters. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 369:143907. [PMID: 39643012 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143907] [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: 09/09/2024] [Revised: 12/03/2024] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 12/09/2024]
Abstract
The aggregation behavior of nanoplastics (NPs) is crucial in determining their fate in aquatic environments. Dissolved organic matter (DOM), characterized by its complex molecular structure and diverse functional groups, can spontaneously absorb on the surface of NPs, thus altering their colloidal stability. In eutrophic waters, DOM primarily originates from metabolic byproducts released by phytoplankton, and its molecular composition and hydrophilic properties change dynamically as the progression of algal blooms. This perspective aims to summarize the heterogeneity of DOM during the initiation, outbreak and recession of algal blooms. And we investigate the influence of molecular-level variations in DOM composition on the aggregation behavior of NPs. Additionally, this study provides insights into the underlying mechanisms relating to the interactions between DOM and NPs. Ultimately, it tackles the challenges and future directions, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive studies to understand the fate of NPs in eutrophic waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Water Security Guarantee in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Marco Greater Bay Area of Ministry of Water Resources, Pearl River Water Resources Commission of the Water Resources, Guangzhou, 511545, China; College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Quan Yuan
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Jihui Ding
- College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yaoqiang Li
- College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 48109, USA
| | - Chen Fang
- College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Min Wang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Ecological Treatment Technology for Urban Water Pollution, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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24
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Yu CW, Yen PL, Kuo YH, Lin TA, Liao VHC. Early-life polystyrene nanoplastics exposure impairs pathogen avoidance behavior associated with intestine-derived insulin-like neuropeptide (ins-11) and serotonin signaling in Caenorhabditis elegans. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 288:117347. [PMID: 39557011 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117347] [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: 08/09/2024] [Revised: 10/30/2024] [Accepted: 11/12/2024] [Indexed: 11/20/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) contamination is an emerging global concern due to the widespread use of plastic products and their potentially negative health impact on ecosystems. Despite their ubiquity, the effects of early-life NPs exposure on host-pathogen interactions remain largely unknown. In this study, we show that early-life exposure to polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs, 100-nm) at predicted environmentally relevant concentrations (10 µg/L) significantly impairs food preference and reduces avoidance of the pathogenic bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis in Caenorhabditis elegans. Exposure to PS-NPs led to a decrease in avoidance from 40.3 % in controls to 30.6 % at 10 µg/L and further to 23.1 % and 17.4 % at 50 and 100 µg/L, respectively. Mechanistic insights reveal that PS-NPs downregulate intestine-derived insulin-like neuropeptide (ins-11) via the transcription factor HLH-30 and the p38 MAPK signaling pathways, both are essential for avoidance behavior. Notably, acute serotonin treatment restored the avoidance behavior, indicating a role of serotonin signaling in this process. Our study indicates that early-life exposure to PS-NPs (100-nm) adversely affects the avoidance behavior of C. elegans, making them more vulnerable to harmful pathogens, thereby affecting their health. These findings highlight significant ecological and health hazards by early-life PS-NPs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Wei Yu
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road., Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Yen
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road., Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsuan Kuo
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road., Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Ting-An Lin
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road., Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Vivian Hsiu-Chuan Liao
- Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road., Taipei 106, Taiwan.
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25
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Vazquez CI, Chang HM, Gong GC, Shiu RF, Chin WC. Impacts of polystyrene nanoplastics on microgel formation from effluent organic matter. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176209. [PMID: 39284446 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Municipal effluents discharged from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered major contributors of nanoplastics (NPs) and dissolved effluent organic matter (dEfOM) to environments. Due to their small sizes, NPs can travel easily in waterways and evade wastewater treatment processes, and may directly interact with dEfOM, altering their environmental fates. However, although much research has examined the impact of natural organic matter on NPs, the interactions between NPs and dEfOM remain unexplored. This study investigated the influences of NPs on the behavior and capacity of dEfOM aggregation and surface granularity, and identified the possible aggregation mechanism. We also adjusted the salinity of water samples to simulate scenarios based on WWTP-sea continuums. Our data suggest that dEfOM can self-assemble with 55 nm polystyrene NPs to form microgels, particularly under high salinity conditions. NPs accelerates the formation speed and number of dEfOM aggregates, but the sizes of the aggregates remain largely unchanged. The relative particle counts at a salinity of 34 psu increased by 300 % compared to the control group. The potential mechanism behind NPs-microgels aggregation is likely driven by the synergistic effect of the divalent ion crosslinking and hydrophobic interactions between EfOM and NPs. Notably, NPs incorporation into microgels decreases the surface granularity, thereby possibly affecting settling velocity and colonization of aggregates, as well as microbial attachment and community diversity. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential influence of NPs on dEfOM assembly and surface properties following effluent discharge, and can inspire further relevant studies on microorganism interactions, removal technologies, and the environmental transport of NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos I Vazquez
- Quantitative and Systems Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California at Merced, Merced 95343, CA, USA
| | - Hsiao-Ming Chang
- Quantitative and Systems Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California at Merced, Merced 95343, CA, USA
| | - Gwo-Ching Gong
- Institute of Marine Environment and Ecology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202301, Taiwan; Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202301, Taiwan
| | - Ruei-Feng Shiu
- Institute of Marine Environment and Ecology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202301, Taiwan; Center of Excellence for the Oceans, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung 202301, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Chun Chin
- Quantitative and Systems Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California at Merced, Merced 95343, CA, USA; Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering, University of California at Merced, Merced, CA 95343, USA.
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26
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Ockenden A, Mitrano DM, Kah M, Tremblay LA, Simon KS. Predator traits influence uptake and trophic transfer of nanoplastics in aquatic systems-a mechanistic study. MICROPLASTICS AND NANOPLASTICS 2024; 4:20. [PMID: 39416765 PMCID: PMC11481666 DOI: 10.1186/s43591-024-00096-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Predicting the response of aquatic species to environmental contaminants is challenging, in part because of the diverse biological traits within communities that influence their uptake and transfer of contaminants. Nanoplastics are a contaminant of growing concern, and previous research has documented their uptake and transfer in aquatic food webs. Employing an established method of nanoplastic tracking using metal-doped plastics, we studied the influence of biological traits on the uptake of nanoplastic from water and diet in freshwater predators through two exposure assays. We focused on backswimmers (Anisops wakefieldi) and damselfly larvae (Xanthocnemis zealandica) - two freshwater macroinvertebrates with contrasting physiological and morphological traits related to feeding and respiration strategies. Our findings reveal striking differences in nanoplastic transfer dynamics: damselfly larvae accumulated nanoplastics from water and diet and then efficiently eliminated 92% of nanoplastic after five days of depuration. In contrast, backswimmers did not accumulate nanoplastic from either source. Differences in nanoplastic transfer dynamics may be explained by the contrasting physiological and morphological traits of these organisms. Overall, our results highlight the importance and potential of considering biological traits in predicting transfer of nanoplastics through aquatic food webs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43591-024-00096-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Ockenden
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, Science Centre, Building 302, 23 Symonds Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
| | - Denise M. Mitrano
- ETH Zurich, Department of Environmental Systems Science, Universitatstrasse 16, Zurich, 8092 Switzerland
| | - Melanie Kah
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, Science Centre, Building 302, 23 Symonds Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
| | - Louis A. Tremblay
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Building 110, 3A Symonds Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
- Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, Lincoln, 7640 New Zealand
| | - Kevin S. Simon
- School of Environment, The University of Auckland, Science Centre, Building 302, 23 Symonds Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
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27
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Auffan M, Lowry GV, Amos JD, Bossa N, Wiesner MR. Leveraging nanoparticle environmental health and safety research in the study of micro- and nano-plastics. NANOIMPACT 2024; 36:100534. [PMID: 39551431 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100534] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 10/01/2024] [Accepted: 11/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
Lessons learned, methodologies, and application of tools that have been developed within the context of research on the environmental impacts, health, and safety of nanomaterials (nano-EHS) provide a solid foundation for research on nano/microplastics. In this communication, we summarize key discoveries obtained through major research efforts over the last two decades in the area of nano-EHS that are applicable for the study of micro- and nano-plastics (referred to here more generally as particulate plastics). We focus on how non-equilibrium particle transport processes affect: 1) bio-physico-chemical mechanisms of particle toxicity and determining dose-response relationships; 2) the potential for biouptake, bioaccumulation, translocation, trophic transfer and intergenerational effects of particulate contaminants; 3) extrapolations from laboratory experiments to complex systems and the impact of environmental transformations; 4) the formulation of functional assays as a basis for predicting the impacts of particulate contaminants in complex environments; 5) the relative importance of incidental particles compared with engineered particles and, 6) experience with data platforms, curation, and experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Auffan
- CEREGE, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, INRAE, Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Gregory V Lowry
- Civil & Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Jaleesia D Amos
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, P.O. Box 90287, Durham, NC 27708-0287, USA
| | - Nathan Bossa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, P.O. Box 90287, Durham, NC 27708-0287, USA
| | - Mark R Wiesner
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, P.O. Box 90287, Durham, NC 27708-0287, USA.
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28
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Gouin T, Ellis-Hutchings R, Pemberton M, Wilhelmus B. Addressing the relevance of polystyrene nano- and microplastic particles used to support exposure, toxicity and risk assessment: implications and recommendations. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:39. [PMID: 39334292 PMCID: PMC11429038 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-024-00599-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an exponential increase in the number of studies reporting on the toxicological effects associated with exposure to nano and microplastic particles (NMPs). The majority of these studies, however, have used monodispersed polystyrene microspheres (PSMs) as 'model' particles. Here we review the differences between the manufacture and resulting physicochemical properties of polystyrene used in commerce and the PSMs most commonly used in toxicity studies. MAIN BODY In general, we demonstrate that significant complexity exists as to the properties of polystyrene particles. Differences in chemical composition, size, shape, surface functionalities and other aspects raise doubt as to whether PSMs are fit-for-purpose for the study of potential adverse effects of naturally occurring NMPs. A realistic assessment of potential health implications of the exposure to environmental NMPs requires better characterisation of the particles, a robust mechanistic understanding of their interactions and effects in biological systems as well as standardised protocols to generate relevant model particles. It is proposed that multidisciplinary engagement is necessary for the development of a timely and effective strategy towards this end. We suggest a holistic framework, which must be supported by a multidisciplinary group of experts to work towards either providing access to a suite of environmentally relevant NMPs and/or developing guidance with respect to best practices that can be adopted by research groups to generate and reliably use NMPs. It is emphasized that there is a need for this group to agree to a consensus regarding what might best represent a model NMP that is consistent with environmental exposure for human health, and which can be used to support a variety of ongoing research needs, including those associated with exposure and hazard assessment, mechanistic toxicity studies, toxicokinetics and guidance regarding the prioritization of plastic and NMPs that likely represent the greatest risk to human health. It is important to acknowledge, however, that establishing a multidisciplinary group, or an expert community of practice, represents a non-trivial recommendation, and will require significant resources in terms of expertise and funding. CONCLUSION There is currently an opportunity to bring together a multidisciplinary group of experts, including polymer chemists, material scientists, mechanical engineers, exposure and life-cycle assessment scientists, toxicologists, microbiologists and analytical chemists, to provide leadership and guidance regarding a consensus on defining what best represents environmentally relevant NMPs. We suggest that given the various complex issues surrounding the environmental and human health implications that exposure to NMPs represents, that a multidisciplinary group of experts are thus critical towards helping to progress the harmonization and standardization of methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd Gouin
- TG Environmental Research, 18 Wellpond Close, Sharnbrook, UK.
| | | | | | - Bianca Wilhelmus
- INEOS Styrolution Group GmbH, Mainzer Landstraße 50, 60325, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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29
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Zeng D, Chen C, Huang Z, Gu J, Zhang Z, Cai T, Peng J, Huang W, Dang Z, Yang C. Influence of macromolecules and electrolytes on heteroaggregation kinetics of polystyrene nanoplastics and goethite nanoparticles in aquatic environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135257. [PMID: 39047557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135257] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Fate and transport of nanoplastics in aquatic environments are affected by their heteroaggregation with minerals in the presence of macromolecules. This study investigated the heteroaggregation of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) with goethite nanoparticles (GNPs) under the influence of macromolecules [humic acid (HA), bovine serum albumin (BSA), and DNA] and electrolytes. Under 1 mg C/L macromolecule, raising electrolyte concentration promoted heteroaggregation via charge screening, except that calcium bridging with HA also enhanced heteroaggregation at CaCl2 concentration above 5 mM. At all NaCl concentrations and CaCl2 concentration below 5 mM, 1 mg C/L macromolecules strongly retarded heteroaggregation, ranking BSA > DNA > HA. Raising macromolecule concentration strengthened such stabilization effect of all macromolecules in NaCl solution and that of DNA and BSA in CaCl2 solution by enhancing steric hindrance. However, 0.1 mg C/L BSA slightly promoted heteroaggregation in CaCl2 solution due to stronger electrostatic attraction than steric hindrance. In CaCl2 solution, raising HA concentration strengthened its destabilization effect via calcium bridging. Macromolecules having more compact globular structure and higher molecular weight may exert greater steric hindrance to inhibit heteroaggregation more effectively. This study provides new insights on the effects of macromolecules and electrolytes on heteroaggregation between nanoplastics and iron minerals in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Zeng
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chengyu Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ziqing Huang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jingyi Gu
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Tingting Cai
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiamin Peng
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weilin Huang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Zhi Dang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chen Yang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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30
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Ruan J, Yang J, Wang X, Liang C, Li L, Zeng Y, Wang J, Li Y, Huang W, Chen C. Heteroaggregation kinetics of oppositely charged nanoplastics in aquatic environments: Effects of particle ratio, solution chemistry, and interaction sequence. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 475:134857. [PMID: 38876017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Interactions between positively charged amino-modified (APS) and negatively charged bare (BPS) polystyrene nanoplastics may cause heteroaggregation in aquatic environments. This study investigated the effects of particle concentration ratio, solution chemistry [electrolytes, pH, and natural organic matter (NOM)], and interaction sequence on their heteroaggregation kinetics. In the absence of electrolytes and NOM, the APS/BPS ratio for attaining maximum heteroaggregation rate (khetero) increased from APS/BPS= 3/7 to APS/BPS= 1/1 as pH increased from 4 to 10, indicating that electrostatic interactions dominated heteroaggregation. In the absence of NOM, khetero ranked APS/BPS= 2/3 > APS/BPS= 1/1 > APS/BPS= 3/2. Colloidal stability decreased linearly as pH increased from 4 to 8 at APS/BPS= 1/1, while diffusion-limited heteroaggregation persisted at pH 10. In NaCl solution, humic acid (HA) retarded heteroaggregation more effectively than sodium alginate (SA) via steric hindrance and weakening electrostatic interactions, following the modified Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (MDLVO) theory. Compared with simultaneous interactions among APS, BPS, NaCl, and NOM, the NOM retardation effects on heteroaggregation weakened if delaying its interaction with others. In CaCl2 solution, the effects of NOM on heteroaggregation depended on counterbalance among charge screening, steric hindrance, and calcium bridging. These findings highlight the important role of heteroaggregation between oppositely charged nanoplastics on their fate and transport in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Ruan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Jiahui Yang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Xingyan Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Cuihua Liang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Lihua Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Yaqi Zeng
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Junhua Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Weilin Huang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Chengyu Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China.
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31
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Vineetha VP, Suresh K, Pillai D. Impact of sub-chronic polystyrene nanoplastics exposure on hematology, histology, and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related protein expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 273:110982. [PMID: 38688406 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2024.110982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are one of the most hazardous marine litters, having the potential to cause far-reaching impacts on the environment and humankind. The effect of NPs on fish health has been studied, but their impact on the subcellular organelles remains unexplored. The present investigation studied the possible implications of polystyrene-nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on the hematology, tissue organization, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related proteins in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were exposed to ∼100 nm PS-NPs at environmentally relevant (0.1 mg/L), and sublethal (1, 10 mg/L) concentrations for 14 days through water exposure. The growth performance and hematological parameters such as erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and leucocytes decreased, while thrombocytes increased with PS-NPs dose-dependently. The gills, liver, kidney, and heart tissues displayed increasing degrees of pathology with increased concentrations of PS-NPs. The gills showed severe epithelial hyperplasia and lamellar fusion. The liver had an abstruse cellular framework, membrane breakage, and vacuolation. While glomerular and tubular atrophy was the most prominent pathology in the kidney tissue, the heart displayed extensive myofibrillar loss and disorderly arranged cardiac cells. The ER-stress-related genes such as bip, atf6, ire1, xbp1, pkr, and apoptotic genes such as casp3a, and bax were over-expressed, while, the anti-apoptotic bcl2 was under-expressed with increasing concentrations of PS-NPs. Immunohistochemistry and blotting results of GRP78, CHOP, EIF2S, and ATF6 in gills, liver, kidney, and heart tissues affirmed the translation to ER stress proteins. The results revealed the sub-lethal adverse effects and the activation of the ER-stress pathway in fish with sub-chronic exposure to PS-NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadavanath Prabhakaran Vineetha
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Kochi 682506, Kerala, India.
| | - Kummari Suresh
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Kochi 682506, Kerala, India
| | - Devika Pillai
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Kochi 682506, Kerala, India.
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Guckeisen T, Orghici R, Rathgeber S. Correlative Effects on Nanoplastic Aggregation in Model Extracellular Biofilm Substances Investigated with Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:2170. [PMID: 39125195 PMCID: PMC11314240 DOI: 10.3390/polym16152170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies show that biofilm substances in contact with nanoplastics play an important role in the aggregation and sedimentation of nanoplastics. Consequences of these processes are changes in biofilm formation and stability and changes in the transport and fate of pollutants in the environment. Having a deeper understanding of the nanoplastics-biofilm interaction would help to evaluate the risks posed by uncontrolled nanoplastic pollution. These interactions are impacted by environmental changes due to climate change, such as, e.g., the acidification of surface waters. We apply fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to investigate the pH-dependent aggregation tendency of non-functionalized polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles (NPs) due to intermolecular forces with model extracellular biofilm substances. Our biofilm model consists of bovine serum albumin (BSA), which serves as a representative for globular proteins, and the polysaccharide alginate, which is a main component in many biofilms, in solutions containing Na+ with an ionic strength being realistic for fresh-water conditions. Biomolecule concentrations ranging from 0.5 g/L up to at maximum 21 g/L are considered. We use non-functionalized PS NPs as representative for mostly negatively charged nanoplastics. BSA promotes NP aggregation through adsorption onto the NPs and BSA-mediated bridging. In BSA-alginate mixtures, the alginate hampers this interaction, most likely due to alginate-BSA complex formation. In most BSA-alginate mixtures as in alginate alone, NP aggregation is predominantly driven by weaker, pH-independent depletion forces. The stabilizing effect of alginate is only weakened at high BSA contents, when the electrostatic BSA-BSA attraction is not sufficiently screened by the alginate. This study clearly shows that it is crucial to consider correlative effects between multiple biofilm components to better understand the NP aggregation in the presence of complex biofilm substances. Single-component biofilm model systems based on comparing the total organic carbon (TOC) content of the extracellular biofilm substances, as usually considered, would have led to a misjudgment of the stability towards aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Silke Rathgeber
- Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, Physics Department, University of Koblenz, Universitätsstraße 1, 56070 Koblenz, Germany; (T.G.)
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Martín-Pérez J, Villacorta A, Banaei G, Morataya-Reyes M, Tavakolpournegari A, Marcos R, Hernández A, García-Rodriguez A. Hazard assessment of nanoplastics is driven by their surface-functionalization. Effects in human-derived primary endothelial cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173236. [PMID: 38761522 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173236] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
During plastic waste degradation into micro/nanoplastics (MNPLs) their physicochemical characteristics including surface properties (charge, functionalization, biocorona, etc.) can change, potentially affecting their biological effects. This paper focuses on the surface functionalization of MNPLs to determine if it has a direct impact on the toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic interactions in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), at different exposure times. Pristine polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPLs), as well as their carboxylated (PS-C-NPLs) and aminated (PS-A-NPLs) forms, all around 50 nm, were used in a wide battery of toxicological assays. These assays encompassed evaluations on cell viability, cell internalization, induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species (iROS), and genotoxicity. The experiments were conducted at a concentration of 100 μg/mL, chosen to ensure a high internalization rate across all treatments while maintaining a sub-toxic concentration. Our results show that all PS-NPLs are internalized by HUVECs, but the internalization dynamic depends on the particle's functionalization. PS-NPLs and PS-C-NPLs internalization modify the morphology of the cell increasing its inner complexity/granularity. Regarding cell toxicity, only PS-A-NPLs reduced cell viability. Intracellular ROS was induced by the three different PS-NPLs but at different time points. Genotoxic damage was induced by the three PS-NPLs at short exposures (2 h), but not for PS-C-NPLs at 24 h. Overall, this study suggests that the toxicological effects of PSNPLs on HUVEC cells are surface-dependent, highlighting the relevance of using human-derived primary cells as a target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Martín-Pérez
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Aliro Villacorta
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Facultad de Recursos Naturales Renovables, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Gooya Banaei
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Michelle Morataya-Reyes
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Alireza Tavakolpournegari
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Ricard Marcos
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain.
| | - Alba Hernández
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain.
| | - Alba García-Rodriguez
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain.
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Zeng D, Yang C, Huang Z, Liu Y, Liu S, Zhang Z, Huang W, Dang Z, Chen C. Heteroaggregation kinetics of nanoplastics and soot nanoparticles in aquatic environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134564. [PMID: 38743982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Heteroaggregation between polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) and soot nanoparticles (STNPs) in aquatic environments may affect their fate and transport. This study investigated the effects of particle concentration ratio, electrolytes, pH, and humic acid on their heteroaggregation kinetics. The critical coagulation concentration (CCC) ranked CCCPSNPs > CCCPSNPs-STNPs > CCCSTNPs, indicating that heteroaggregation rates fell between homoaggregation rates. In NaCl solution, as the PSNPs/STNPs ratio decreased from 9/1 to 3/7, heteroaggregation rate decreased and CCCPSNPs-STNPs increased from 200 to 220 mM due to enhanced electrostatic repulsion. Outlier was observed at PSNPs/STNPs= 1/9, where CCCPSNPs-STNPs= 170 mM and homoaggregation of STNPs dominated. However, in CaCl2 solution where calcium bridged with STNPs, heteroaggregation rate increased and CCCPSNPs-STNPs decreased from 26 to 5 mM as the PSNPs/STNPs ratio decreasing from 9/1 to 1/9. In composite water samples, heteroaggregation occurred only at estuarine and marine salinities. Acidic condition promoted heteroaggregation via charge screening. Humic acid retarded or promoted heteroaggregation in NaCl or CaCl2 solutions by steric hindrance or calcium bridging, respectively. Other than van der Waals attraction and electrostatic repulsion, heteroaggregation was affected by steric hindrance, hydrophobic interactions, π - π interactions, and calcium bridging. The results highlight the role of black carbon on colloidal stability of PSNPs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Zeng
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chen Yang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ziqing Huang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yanjun Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Sijia Liu
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weilin Huang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Zhi Dang
- College of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chengyu Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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35
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Liu Z, Wang Y, Bian Q, Wang D. Transgenerational Response of Germline Nuclear Hormone Receptor Genes to Nanoplastics at Predicted Environmental Doses in Caenorhabditis elegans. TOXICS 2024; 12:420. [PMID: 38922100 PMCID: PMC11209457 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12060420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Transgenerational nanoplastic toxicity could be detected in Caenorhabditis elegans after exposure at the parental generation (P0-G); however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. We aimed to examine the role of germline nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) in controlling the transgenerational toxicity of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) based on gene expression screening and functional analysis. Among germline NHR genes, daf-12, nhr-14, and nhr-47 expressions were increased and nhr-12 expression was decreased by PS-NPs (1 and 10 μg/L). Transgenerational alterations in expressions of these four NHR genes were also induced by PS-NPs (1 and 10 μg/L). RNAi of daf-12, nhr-14, and nhr-47 caused resistance, whereas RNAi of nhr-12 conferred susceptibility to transgenerational PS-NP toxicity. After PS-NP exposure, expressions of ins-3, daf-28, and ins-39 encoding insulin ligands, efn-3 encoding Ephrin ligand, and lin-44 encoding Wnt ligand, as well as expressions of their receptor genes (daf-2, vab-1, and/or mig-1), were dysregulated by the RNAi of daf-12, nhr-14, nhr-47, and nhr-12. Therefore, alteration in certain germline NHRs could mediate the induction of transgenerational nanoplastic toxicity by affecting secreted ligands and their receptors in the offspring of exposed organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; (Z.L.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuxing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; (Z.L.); (Y.W.)
| | - Qian Bian
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; (Z.L.); (Y.W.)
- Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen 518122, China
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36
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Liu N, Kong Y, Cao X, Yue L, Wang Z, Li X. Both nanoplastic and iron mineral types determine their heteroaggregation: Aggregation kinetics and interface process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134192. [PMID: 38569346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) inevitably interact with iron minerals (IMs) after being released into aquatic environments, changing their transport and fate. In this study, batch heteroaggregation kinetics of four types of NPs, i.e., polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polystyrene (PS-Bare), amino-polystyrene (PS-NH2), and carboxyl-polystyrene (PS-COOH), with two different IMs (hematite and magnetite) were conducted. We found that the heteroaggregation of NPs and IMs and the associated interfacial interaction mechanisms are both NPs-dependent and IMs-dependent. Specifically, the NPs had stronger heteroaggregation with hematite than magnetite; the heteroaggregation order of two IMs with NPs was PMMA > PS-NH2 > PS-Bare > PS-COOH. Moreover, hydrogen bond, complexation, hydrophobic, cation-π, and electrostatic interaction were involved in the interfacial reaction between NPs and hematite, and electrons were transferred from the NPs to the hematite, causing the reduction of Fe3+ into Fe2+. Furthermore, we first revealed that both pre-homoaggregation of NPs and IMs could affect their subsequent heteroaggregation, and the homoaggregates of IMs could be interrupted by PMMA or PS-COOH NPs introduction. Therefore, the emerging NPs pollution is likely to generate an ecological effect in terms of elemental cycles such as iron cycle. This work provides new insights into assessing the environmental transfer and ecological effects of NPs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yu Kong
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xuesong Cao
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Le Yue
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
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Yang Z, DeLoid GM, Baw J, Zarbl H, Demokritou P. Assessment of Ingested Micro- and Nanoplastic (MNP)-Mediated Genotoxicity in an In Vitro Model of the Small Intestinal Epithelium (SIE). NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:807. [PMID: 38727401 PMCID: PMC11085749 DOI: 10.3390/nano14090807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become ubiquitous contaminants of water and foods, resulting in high levels of human ingestion exposure. MNPs have been found in human blood and multiple tissues, suggesting that they are readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and widely distributed. Growing toxicological evidence suggests that ingested MNPs may pose a serious health threat. The potential genotoxicity of MNPs, however, remains largely unknown. In this study, genotoxicity of primary and environmentally relevant secondary MNPs was assessed in a triculture small intestinal epithelium (SIE) model using the CometChip assay. Aqueous suspensions of 25 and 1000 nm carboxylated polystyrene spheres (PS25C and PS1KC), and incinerated polyethylene (PEI PM0.1) were subjected to simulated GIT digestion to create physiologically relevant exposures (digestas), which were applied to the SIE model at final MNP concentrations of 1, 5, and 20 μg/mL for 24 or 48 h. PS25C and PS1KC induced DNA damage in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. To our knowledge, this is one of the first assessment of MNP genotoxicity in an integrated in vitro ingestion platform including simulated GIT digestion and a triculture SIE model. These findings suggest that ingestion of high concentrations of carboxylated PS MNPs could have serious genotoxic consequences in the SIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Yang
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Glen M. DeLoid
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Joshua Baw
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Helmut Zarbl
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (Z.Y.); (G.M.D.)
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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38
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Yang L, Kang S, Luo X, Wang Z. Microplastics in drinking water: A review on methods, occurrence, sources, and potential risks assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123857. [PMID: 38537794 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123857] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics in drinking water captured widespread attention following reports of widespread detection around the world. Concerns have been raised about the potential adverse effects of microplastics in drinking water on human health. Given the widespread interest in this research topic, there is an urgent need to compile existing data and assess current knowledge. This paper provides a systematic review of studies on microplastics in drinking water, their evidence, key findings, knowledge gaps, and research needs. The data collected show that microplastics are widespread in drinking water, with large variations in reported concentrations. Standardized methodologies of sampling and analysis are urgently needed. There were more fibrous and fragmented microplastics, with the majority being <10 μm in size and composed of polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Little attention has been paid to the color of microplastics. More research is needed to understand the occurrence and transfer of microplastics throughout the water supply chain and the treatment efficiency of drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). Methods capable of analyzing microplastics <10 μm and nanoplastics are urgently needed. Potential ecological assessment models for microplastics currently in use need to be improved to take into account the complexity and specificity of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Shichang Kang
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Xi Luo
- Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science and Frozen Soil Engineering, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhaoqing Wang
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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Gao X, Xu K, Du W, Wang S, Jiang M, Wang Y, Han Q, Chen M. Comparing the effects and mechanisms of exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics with different functional groups on the male reproductive system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 922:171299. [PMID: 38423318 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171299] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
After aging in the environment, some nanoplastics will carry different charges and functional groups, thereby altering their toxicological effects. To evaluate the potential impact of aging of nanoplastics on the mammalian reproductive system, we exposed C57BL/6 male mice to a dose of 5 mg/kg/d polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) with different functional groups (unmodified, carboxyl functionalized and amino functionalized) for 45 days for this study. The results suggest that PS-NPs with different functional groups triggered oxidative stress, a decreased in the testis index, disruption of the outer wall of the seminiferous tubules, reduction in the number of spermatogonia cells and sperm counts, and an increased in sperm malformations. We performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis on the differentially expressed proteins, and found they were mainly enriched in protein transport, RNA splicing and mTOR signaling. We confirmed that the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway is over activated, which may lead to reduction of spermatogonia stem cells by over differentiation. Strikingly, PS-NPs with functional group modifications are more toxic than those of unmodified polystyrene, and that PS-NPs with positively charged amino modifications are the most toxic. This study provides a new understanding for correctly evaluating the toxicological effects of plastic aging, and of the mechanism responsible for the reproductive toxicity caused by nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Gao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Wanting Du
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Shuxin Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Mengling Jiang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Yunyi Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Han
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China.
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Skawina A, Dąbrowska A, Bonk A, Paterczyk B, Nowakowska J. Tracking the micro- and nanoplastics in the terrestrial-freshwater food webs. Bivalves as sentinel species. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170468. [PMID: 38296093 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170468] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Micro- (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are currently ubiquitous in the ecosystems, and freshwater biota is still insufficiently studied to understand the global fate, transport paths, and consequences of their presence. Thus, in this study, we investigated the role of bivalves and a trophic transfer of MPs and NPs in an experimental food chain. The food chain consisted of terrestrial non-selective detritivore Dendrobaena (Eisenia) sp., freshwater benthic filter feeder Unio tumidus, and freshwater benthic detritivore-collectors Asellus aquaticus or Gammarus sp. Animals were exposed to different fluorescently labeled micro- and nanoplastics (PMMA 20 μm, nanoPS 15-18 nm, and 100 nm, PS 1 μm and 20 μm, PE from cosmetics) as well as to the faeces of animals exposed to plastics to assess their influence on the environmental transportation, availability to biota, and bioaccumulation of supplied particles. Damaged and intact fluorescent particles were observed in the faeces of terrestrial detritivores and in the droppings of aquatic filter feeders, respectively. They were also present in the guts of bivalves and of crustaceans which were fed with bivalve droppings. Bivalves (Unio tumidus, and additionally Unio pictorum, and Sphaerium corneum) produced droppings containing micro- and nanoparticles filtered from suspension and deposited them onto the tank bottom, making them available for broader feeding guilds of animals (e.g. collectors, like crustaceans). Finally, the natural ageing of PS and its morphological changes, leakage of the fluorescent labelling, and agglomeration of particles were demonstrated. That supports our hypothesis of the crucial role of the characterization of physical and chemical materials in adequately understanding the mechanisms of their interaction with biota. Microscopical methods (confocal, fluorescent, scanning electron) and Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy were used to track the particles' passage in a food web and monitor structural changes of the MPs' and NPs' surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Skawina
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Żwirki i Wigury 101 Str., 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Dąbrowska
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Chemistry, Laboratory of Spectroscopy and Intermolecular Interactions, Pasteura 1 Str., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Agata Bonk
- University of Bremen, Faculty 2 Biology, Chemistry Leobener Str., 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Bohdan Paterczyk
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Imaging Laboratory, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julita Nowakowska
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Imaging Laboratory, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
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41
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Pastorino P. Sunscreens and micro(nano)plastics: Are we aware of these threats to the Egyptian coral reefs? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 910:168587. [PMID: 37984652 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168587] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
During a snorkeling trip to Marsa Alam and Hamata (southern Red Sea Riviera, Egypt) I explored the coral reefs and the diverse marine habitats of fish and invertebrate species. The area invites recreational diving and snorkeling, but the beaches are littered with all sorts of solid waste (mainly fragmented plastics). Also, there are no local restrictions on sunscreen use. The development of tourism to the area raises questions about the environmental impact and how its further growth will have on coral reefs. Every year, 1.2 million tourists visit the Red Sea coast (about 3287 tourists per day) and release about 1.7 tons/month of sunscreen into the Red Sea. As an ecologist and editorial board member of Science of the Total Environment, I ask myself how we as scientists can increase public awareness and call for prompt actions to protect the coral reefs. The discussion underlines two major threats to the Egyptian coral reefs: sunscreen use and micro(nano)plastics waste. The discussion closes with possible solutions, future perspectives, and recommendations to protect the coral reefs ecosystem of the Egyptian Red Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pastorino
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy.
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Olabemiwo FA, Hagan A, Cham M, Cohan FM. Two plant-growth-promoting Bacillus species can utilize nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167972. [PMID: 37865243 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167972] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Plastics in agricultural soils pose a potential risk to humans because environmental plastics can enter our foods. Here, we present a first step toward developing bacteria that can both flourish in agricultural settings and bioremediate nanoplastics. We exposed two species known to promote plant growth in agricultural settings, Bacillus inaquosorum and B. velezensis, to polystyrene nanoplastic beads at various dosages. When grown in a medium with a low dosage of plastic as the only carbon source, the bacteria could oxidize the plastic, indicating the possibility of utilizing the plastic in their growth. When plastic was added to a rich medium, low and high dosages brought immediate death or inhibition to about a third of B. inaquosorum cells during 1 h. Despite the immediate harm, over the course of 24 h, the bacteria from one strain each of B. inaquosorum and B. velezensis reached higher densities at low plastic doses than with no plastic, although they reached lower densities at high plastic doses (a toxicological phenomenon known as hormesis). Microscopic studies demonstrated that the bacteria are shielded from excessive accumulation of nanoplastic particles. Because these plant-growth-promoting species can utilize polystyrene nanoplastics, strains of these species might be developed to bioremediate environmental plastic in agricultural settings. SYNOPSIS: Plastic fragments on farmlands accumulate on produce, creating a need for bioremediation. We identify bacteria that can flourish on agricultural land and utilize nanoplastics, a first step toward developing agricultural bioremediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatai A Olabemiwo
- Department of Biology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, United States of America
| | - Ama Hagan
- Department of Biology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, United States of America
| | - Melanie Cham
- Department of Biology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, United States of America
| | - Frederick M Cohan
- Department of Biology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, United States of America.
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Liu S, Su C, Lu Y, Xian Y, Chen Z, Wang Y, Deng X, Li X. Effects of microplastics on the properties of different types of sewage sludge and strategies to overcome the inhibition: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166033. [PMID: 37543332 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as an emerging pollutant. When microplastics enter wastewater treatment plants, the plant traps most of the microplastics in the sludge during sewage treatment. Therefore, the effects of microplastics on sludge removal performance, and on the physical and chemical properties and microbial communities in sludge, have attracted extensive attention. This review mainly describes the presence of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants, and the effects of microplastics on the decontamination efficiency and physicochemical properties of activated sludge, aerobic granular sludge, anaerobic granular sludge and anaerobic ammonium oxidation sludge. Further, the review summarizes the effects of microplastics on microbial activity and microbial community dynamics in various sludges in terms of type, concentration, and contact time. The mechanisms used to strengthen the reduction of microplastics, such as biochar and hydrochar, are also discussed. This review summarizes the mechanism by which microplastics influence the performance of different types of sludge, and proposes effective strategies to mitigate the inhibitive effect of microplastics on sludge and discusses removal technologies of microplastics in sewage. Biochar and hydrochar are one of the effective measures to overcome the inhibition of microplastics on sludge. Meanwhile, constructed wetland may be one of the important choice for the future removal of microplastics from sewage. The goal is to provide theoretical support and insights for ensuring the stable operation of wastewater treatment plants and reducing the impact of microplastics on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Chengyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China.
| | - Yiying Lu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yunchuan Xian
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Zhengpeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xue Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xinjuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
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Silva MSS, Pires A, Vethaak AD, Martínez-Gómez C, Almeida M, Pinto R, Figueira E, Oliveira M. Effects of polymethylmethacrylate nanoplastics on the polychaete Hediste diversicolor: Behavioural, regenerative, and biochemical responses. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 265:106743. [PMID: 37931377 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106743] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, particularly microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), have been regarded as pollutants of emerging concern due to their effects on organisms and ecosystems, especially considering marine environments. However, in terms of NPs, there is still a knowledge gap regarding the effects of size and polymer on marine invertebrates, such as benthic organisms. Therefore, this study aimed to understand, regarding behavioural, physiological, and biochemical endpoints (neurotransmission, energy metabolism, antioxidant status, and oxidative damage), the effects of 50 nm waterborne polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) NPs (0.5 to 500 µg/L) on the marine benthic polychaete Hediste diversicolor, a key species in estuarine and coastal ecosystems. Results demonstrated that worms exposed to PMMA NPs had a shorter burrowing time than control organisms. Nevertheless, worms exposed to PMMA NPs (0.5 and 500 µg/L) decreased cholinesterase activity. Energy metabolism was decreased at 50 and 500 µg/L, and glycogen content decreased at all concentrations of PMMA NPs. Enzymes related to the antioxidant defence system (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) displayed increased activities in H. diversicolor specimens exposed to concentrations between 0.5 and 500 µg/L, which led to no damage at the cell membrane and protein levels. In this study, polychaetes also displayed a lower regenerative capacity when exposed to PMMA NPs. Overall, the data obtained in this study emphasize the potential consequences of PMMA NPs to benthic worms, particularly between 0.5 and 50 µg/L, with polychaetes exposed to 50 µg/L being the most impacted by the analysed NPs. However, since sediments are considered to be sinks and sources of plastics, further studies are needed to better understand the impacts of different sizes and polymers on marine organisms, particularly benthic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S S Silva
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Adília Pires
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - A Dick Vethaak
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Deltares, Marine and Coastal Systems, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Concepción Martínez-Gómez
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), CSIC, Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, C/Varadero, 1, San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia 30740, Spain
| | - Mónica Almeida
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Pinto
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Etelvina Figueira
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Miguel Oliveira
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Astner AF, Gillmore AB, Yu Y, Flury M, DeBruyn JM, Schaeffer SM, Hayes DG. Formation, behavior, properties and impact of micro- and nanoplastics on agricultural soil ecosystems (A Review). NANOIMPACT 2023; 31:100474. [PMID: 37419450 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2023.100474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics (MPs and NPs, respectively) in agricultural soil ecosystems represent a pervasive global environmental concern, posing risks to soil biota, hence soil health and food security. This review provides a comprehensive and current summary of the literature on sources and properties of MNPs in agricultural ecosystems, methodology for the isolation and characterization of MNPs recovered from soil, MNP surrogate materials that mimic the size and properties of soil-borne MNPs, and transport of MNPs through the soil matrix. Furthermore, this review elucidates the impacts and risks of agricultural MNPs on crops and soil microorganisms and fauna. A significant source of MPs in soil is plasticulture, involving the use of mulch films and other plastic-based implements to provide several agronomic benefits for specialty crop production, while other sources of MPs include irrigation water and fertilizer. Long-term studies are needed to address current knowledge gaps of formation, soil surface and subsurface transport, and environmental impacts of MNPs, including for MNPs derived from biodegradable mulch films, which, although ultimately undergoing complete mineralization, will reside in soil for several months. Because of the complexity and variability of agricultural soil ecosystems and the difficulty in recovering MNPs from soil, a deeper understanding is needed for the fundamental relationships between MPs, NPs, soil biota and microbiota, including ecotoxicological effects of MNPs on earthworms, soil-dwelling invertebrates, and beneficial soil microorganisms, and soil geochemical attributes. In addition, the geometry, size distribution, fundamental and chemical properties, and concentration of MNPs contained in soils are required to develop surrogate MNP reference materials that can be used across laboratories for conducting fundamental laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton F Astner
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Alexis B Gillmore
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Yingxue Yu
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Markus Flury
- Department of Crops and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, and Puyallup, WA 98371, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Sean M Schaeffer
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America
| | - Douglas G Hayes
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-4531, United States of America.
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Li Y, Du X, Li W, Jiang Q, Ye Y, Yang Y, Liu X, Zhao Y, Che X. Two genes related to apoptosis in the hepatopancreas of juvenile prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense: Molecular characterization and transcriptional response to nanoplastic exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162863. [PMID: 36931509 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics have been widely found in the global water environment, causing plastic pollution and affecting human beings and numerous organisms. Studies involving freshwater crustacean exposure to nanoplastics, however, are limited. In this study, juvenile prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense) were exposed to 75 nm polystyrene nanoplastics at different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg/L) for a 28-d chronic exposure experiment. To study the effects of exposure to nanoplastics on hepatopancreas cell apoptosis, C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase, catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) genes were selected, and hepatotoxic enzyme activities and Toll pathway- and apoptosis-related gene expression were determined. For the first time, full-length Mn-JNK and Mn-PIK3CA cDNAs were cloned from M. nipponense. Homologous comparisons showed that JNK and PIK3CA had conserved functional sequences. The apoptosis rate in the high-concentration nanoplastic group (40 mg/L) was significantly higher than in the low-concentration nanoplastic (5 mg/L) and control groups (0 mg/L). The alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and xanthine oxidase (XOD) enzyme activities in the hepatopancreas increased with exposure to higher concentrations of nanoplastics. In addition, the levels of apoptosis- and Toll pathway-related gene expression and JNK and PIK3CA gene expression were initially increased, then decreased with exposure to higher concentrations of nanoplastics. This study showed that polystyrene nanoplastics activate toll-related pathways leading to apoptosis and hepatopancreas damage, which provides theoretical support for future aquatic toxicological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Li
- Fishery Machinery and Instrument Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xinglin Du
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Wen Li
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Qichen Jiang
- Freshwater Fisheries Research Institute of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing 210017, China
| | - Yucong Ye
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ying Yang
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xingguo Liu
- Fishery Machinery and Instrument Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yunlong Zhao
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Xuan Che
- Fishery Machinery and Instrument Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fisheries Sciences, Shanghai 200092, China.
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47
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Karkanorachaki K, Syranidou E, Maravelaki PN, Kalogerakis N. Intertwined synergistic abiotic and biotic degradation of polypropylene pellets in marine mesocosms. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 457:131710. [PMID: 37276696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of plastic waste in the oceans has caused growing concern for its effects on marine life. The interactions of plastics with environmental factors have been linked to fragmentation to micro- and nanoparticles with different properties and consequences, but the mechanism of fragmentation has not been fully understood yet. In this work, we investigate the combined effect of marine communities and ultraviolet (UV) radiation towards the degradation of virgin and artificially weathered polypropylene (PP) pellets after a long-term incubation period in marine mesocosms. The surface chemical alterations and deterioration of the polymer, in conjunction with the attachment and evolution of marine bacterial communities, the development of biofilm and exopolymeric substances (EPS), as well as the colloidal properties (zeta-potential and hydrodynamic diameter) of the mesocosms were studied. The surface area of both types of pellets decreased over time, despite no concrete weight change being observed. Cell growth, EPS production and colloid particle size were correlated to the loss of area. Therefore, we propose that surface area could be effectively monitored, instead of weight loss, as an alternative indicator of polymer degradation in biodegradation experiments. Changes in the chemical structure of the polymer, in addition to the evolution of the biological factors, implied that a complex degradation process alternated between two phases: an abiotic phase, when UV irradiation contributes to the deterioration of the polymer surface layers and a biotic phase, when marine communities degrade the weathered polymer surface to reveal the underlying layer of virgin polymer. Finally, microscopic particles, produced as a result of the decrease in pellet area, promoted the aggregation of colloidal particles. The role and impacts of these colloidal particles in marine ecosystems are yet as unidentified as that of micro- and nano-sized plastic particles and call for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Karkanorachaki
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece
| | - Evdokia Syranidou
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece
| | | | - Nicolas Kalogerakis
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece; Institute of GeoEnergy, Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas, Chania, Greece.
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