1
|
Cao NDT, Vo DHT, Pham MDT, Nguyen VT, Nguyen TB, Le LT, Mukhtar H, Nguyen HV, Visvanathan C, Bui XT. Microplastics contamination in water supply system and treatment processes. Sci Total Environ 2024; 926:171793. [PMID: 38513854 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Due to global demand, millions of tons of plastics have been widely consumed, resulting in the widespread entry of vast amounts of microplastic particles into the environment. The presence of microplastics (MPs) in water supplies, including bottled water, has undergone systematic review, assessing the potential impacts of MPs on humans through exposure assessment. The main challenges associated with current technologies lie in their ability to effectively treat and completely remove MPs from drinking and supply water. While the risks posed by MPs upon entering the human body have not yet been fully revealed, there is a predicted certainty of negative impacts. This review encompasses a range of current technologies, spanning from basic to advanced treatments and varying in scale. However, given the frequent detection of MPs in drinking and bottled water, it becomes imperative to implement comprehensive management strategies to address this issue effectively. Consequently, integrating current technologies with management options such as life-cycle assessment, circular economy principles, and machine learning is crucial to eliminating this pervasive problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Dan-Thanh Cao
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Dieu-Hien Thi Vo
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Mai-Duy-Thong Pham
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Truc Nguyen
- Faculty of Environment, Saigon University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Thanh-Binh Nguyen
- College of Hydrosphere Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, No. 142, Haijhuan Road, Nanzih District, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Linh-Thy Le
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP HCMC), 217 Hong Bang street, District 5th, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Hussnain Mukhtar
- Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Huu-Viet Nguyen
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Chettiyappan Visvanathan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Xuan-Thanh Bui
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gálvez-Blanca V, Edo C, González-Pleiter M, Fernández-Piñas F, Leganés F, Rosal R. Microplastics and non-natural cellulosic particles in Spanish bottled drinking water. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11089. [PMID: 38750101 PMCID: PMC11096351 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This investigation explored the presence of microplastics (MPs) and artificial cellulosic particles (ACPs) in commercial water marketed in single use 1.5 L poly(ethylene terephthalate) bottles. In this work we determined a mass concentration of 1.61 (1.10-2.88) µg/L and 1.04 (0.43-1.82) µg/L for MPs and ACPs respectively in five top-selling brands from the Spanish bottled water market. Most MPs consisted of white and transparent polyester and polyethylene particles, while most ACPs were cellulosic fibers likely originating from textiles. The median size of MPs and ACPs was 93 µm (interquartile range 76-130 µm) and 77 µm (interquartile range 60-96 µm), respectively. Particle mass size distributions were fitted to a logistic function, enabling comparisons with other studies. The estimated daily intake of MPs due to the consumption of bottled water falls within the 4-18 ng kg-1 day-1 range, meaning that exposure to plastics through bottled water probably represents a negligible risk to human health. However, it's worth noting that the concentration of plastic found was much higher than that recorded for tap water, which supports the argument in favour of municipal drinking water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Gálvez-Blanca
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Edo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Fernández-Piñas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Leganés
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lin X, Gowen AA, Chen S, Xu JL. Baking releases microplastics from polyethylene terephthalate bakeware as detected by optical photothermal infrared and quantum cascade laser infrared. Sci Total Environ 2024; 924:171408. [PMID: 38432360 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The use of plastic bakeware is a potential source of human exposure to microplastics (MPs). However, characterizing MPs remains a challenge. This study aims to employ optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) and quantum cascade laser infrared (QCL-IR) technology to characterise polyethylene terephthalate (PET) MPs shed from PET bakeware during the baking process. The bakeware, filled with ultrapure water, underwent baking cycles at 220 °C for 20 min, 60 min, and three consecutive cycles of 60 min each. Subsequently, particles present in the ultrapure water were collected using an Al2O3 filter. O-PTIR and QCL-IR were used to characterise PET MPs collected from the filtration. Analysis revealed that QCL-IR spectra exhibited broader absorption peaks, compared to O-PTIR. Notably, MP spectra obtained from both techniques displayed common absorption peaks around 1119, 1623, 1341 and 1725 cm-1. The dominant size of PET MPs detected by O-PTIR and QCL-IR was 1-3 μm and 5-20 μm, respectively. The quantity of identified PET MPs using O-PTIR was 18 times greater than that with QCL-IR, which was attributed to variations in spatial resolution, sampling methods for spectra collection, and data analysis employed by the two methods. Importantly, findings from both techniques highlighted a notably large quantity of MPs released from PET bakeware, particularly evident after 3 cycles of 60 min of baking, suggesting a substantial increase in the potential ingestion of MPs, especially in scenarios involving extended baking durations. The research outcomes will guide consumers on minimizing the intake of microplastics by using PET bakeware for shorter baking time. Additionally, the study will yield valuable insights into the application of O-PTIR and QCL-IR for MPs detection, potentially inspiring advancements in MPs detection methodologies through cutting-edge technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Lin
- School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Aoife A Gowen
- School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Shuai Chen
- Shanghai Polytechnic University 201209, China
| | - Jun-Li Xu
- School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang L, Kang S, Luo X, Wang Z. Microplastics in drinking water: A review on methods, occurrence, sources, and potential risks assessment. Environ Pollut 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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ramaremisa G, Tutu H, Saad D. Detection and characterisation of microplastics in tap water from Gauteng, South Africa. Chemosphere 2024; 356:141903. [PMID: 38582157 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
This study reports the presence, concentration, and characteristics of microplastics (MPs) in tap water in three suburbs in Gauteng Province in South Africa. Physical characterisation was conducted using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy following staining of MPs with the Rose Bengal dye. The concentrations of MPs in all samples ranged from 4.7 to 31 particles/L, with a mean of 14 ± 5.6 particles/L. Small-sized (<1 mm) and fibrous-shaped MPs were most abundant in all samples. Fibers accounted for 83.1% of MPs in samples from all the three areas, followed by fragments (12.4%), pellets/beads (3.1%), and films (1.5%), with a minor variation in the distribution of shapes and sizes in samples from each area. Raman microspectroscopy was used for chemical analysis, and five polymers were identified, namely: high-density polyethylene, polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate, poly(hexamethylene terephtalamide), and poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid). C.I Pigment Red 1, C.I. Solvent Yellow 4, Potassium indigotetrasulphonate, and C.I Pigment Black 7 were the colourants detected. These colourants are carcinogenic and mutagenic and are potentially toxic to humans. The prevalence of MPs in tap water implies their inadequate removal during water treatment. For instance, the presence of poly(AM-co-AA) suggests that drinking water treatment plants may be a potential source of MPs in tap water. Other polymers, e.g., high-density polyethylene may be released from pipes during the transportation of drinking water. The estimated daily consumption of MPs from tap water was 1.2, 0.71, and 0.50 particles/kg.day for children, men, and women, respectively. The findings of this study provide evidence of the presence of MPs in drinking water in South Africa, thus giving some insights into the performance of treatment plants in removing these contaminants and a benchmark for the formulation of standard limits for the amount of MPs in drinking water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gibbon Ramaremisa
- School of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Hlanganani Tutu
- School of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Dalia Saad
- School of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa; Department of Chemistry, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Adhikari M, Biswas C, Mazumdar P, Sarkar S, Pramanick K. Evaluating the potential of daily intake of polystyrene microplastics via drinking water in inducing PCOS and its ovarian fibrosis progression using female zebrafish. NanoImpact 2024; 34:100507. [PMID: 38663500 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene microplastics, extensively considered endocrine disrupting chemicals, disturb the reproductive system of living organisms. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the reproductive endocrinopathy, is longstanding concern due to its eternal impacts as reproductive disorder and infertility. Despite several reports in reproductive and endocrine toxicity, there is inadequate literature regarding the daily intake of polystyrene-microplastics via drinking water in causing PCOS and leading to ovarian fibrosis in long-term. The present study investigated whether daily consumption of polystyrene-microplastics at doses equivalent to human exposure can cause PCOS and progress to ovarian fibrosis, using female zebrafish as model. Resembling letrozole-PCOS zebrafish model, daily intake of polystyrene-microplastics displayed hallmark PCOS pathophysiology; like excess body weight and %Gonadosomatic index, decreased Follicle Stimulating Hormone and β-estradiol, increased Luteinising Hormone, brain and ovarian Testosterone (39.3% and 75% respectively). Correspondingly, ovarian histology revealed more developing (stage I and II) oocytes and less mature oocytes alongwith cystic lesions; like follicular membrane disorganization, zona pellucida invagination, theca hypertrophy, basophilic granular accumulation and oocyte buddings. Lipid deposition in intestinal and ovarian tissues was evidenced and increased fasting blood glucose manifesting insulin resistance. The expression of PCOS biomarkers (tox3, dennd1a, fem1a) was significantly disturbed. Polystyrene microplastics played vital role in inducing PCOS further enhancing oxidative stress, which positively influences inflammation and aggravate ovarian mitophagy, shedding light on its ability to harshen PCOS into ovarian fibrosis, which is characterized by collagen deposition and upregulation of pro-fibrogenic biomarker genes. These findings illustrate the potential of daily microplastics intake via drinking water in triggering PCOS and its progression to ovarian fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhuchhanda Adhikari
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU), Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, India
| | - Chayan Biswas
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU), Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, India
| | - Piyali Mazumdar
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, India
| | - Shampa Sarkar
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, India
| | - Kousik Pramanick
- Integrative Biology Research Unit (IBRU), Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata 700073, India.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sekar V, Shaji S, Sundaram B. Microplastic prevalence and human exposure in the bottled drinking water in the west Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, India. J Contam Hydrol 2024; 264:104346. [PMID: 38670001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widespread, minute plastic particles present in various aquatic environments, raising concerns about their effect on human health and ecosystems. The detrimental effects of MPs on the environment, include the contamination of ecosystems, harm to aquatic life through ingestion, potential disruption of food chains, and long-term ecological consequences. Despite numerous studies confirming the MP's presence in aquatic environments, research specifically focused on MPs in bottled drinking water (BDW) is limited. Research on MPs in drinking water is vital to assess potential health risks and develop strategies for ensuring water safety and quality. This study fills a research gap by investigating microplastics (MPs) in nine brands of BDW in the West Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, India. The average MP concentration in BDW was found to be 2.89 ± 0.48 items/L, with fibers being the predominant shape and sizes ranging from 500 to 1000 μm. Transparent and blue were the most common colors. From ATR-FTIR analysis, the dominant polymer found was polypropylene (PP) followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The human risk assessment was also calculated using the formula of Estimated daily intake (EDI) and Lifetime intake (LTI). The calculation found that the EDI of MPs for children and adults ranged from 0.041 to 0.291 MPs per kilogram per day and 0.019 to 0.133 MPs per kilogram per day, respectively. The mean LTI of MP consumption of an individual, ranged from 17,958 to 2,54,861 MPs, considering an average age of 75 years. The current findings offer valuable information for ongoing evaluations of the potential human risks linked to MP exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijaykumar Sekar
- Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sheha Shaji
- Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Baranidharan Sundaram
- Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alak G, Köktürk M, Atamanalp M. Evaluation of phthalate migration potential in vacuum-packed. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7944. [PMID: 38575598 PMCID: PMC10995151 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54730-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the presence and migration of PAEs in packaging materials and consumer products has become a serious concern. Based on this concern, the aim of our study is to determine the possible migration potential and speed of PAEs in benthic fish stored in vacuum packaging, as well as to monitor the storage time and type as well as polyethylene (PE) polymer detection.As a result of the analysis performed by µ-Raman spectroscopy, 1 microplastic (MP) of 6 µm in size was determined on the 30th day of storage in whiting fish muscle and the polymer type was found to be Polyethylene (PE) (low density polyethylene: LDPE). Depending on the storage time of the packaging used in the vacuum packaging process, it has been determined that its chemical composition is affected by temperature and different types of polymers are formed. 10 types of PAEs were identified in the packaging material and stored flesh fish: DIBP, DBP, DPENP, DHEXP, BBP, DEHP, DCHP, DNOP, DINP and DDP. While the most dominant PAEs in the packaging material were determined as DEHP, the most dominant PAEs in fish meat were recorded as BBP and the lowest as DMP. The findings provide a motivating model for monitoring the presence and migration of PAEs in foods, while filling an important gap in maintaining a safe food chain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonca Alak
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, TR-25030, Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Mine Köktürk
- Department of Organic Agriculture Management, Faculty of Applied Science, Igdir University, TR- 76000, Igdir, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Atamanalp
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, TR-25030, Erzurum, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Han Z, Jiang J, Xia J, Yan C, Cui C. Occurrence and fate of microplastics from a water source to two different drinking water treatment plants in a megacity in eastern China. Environ Pollut 2024; 346:123546. [PMID: 38369092 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The widespread presence of microplastics (MPs) contamination in drinking water has raised concerns regarding water safety and public health. In this study, a micro-Raman spectrometer was used to trace the occurrence of MP transport from a water source to a drinking water treatment plant (DWTP)1 with an advanced treatment process and DWTP2 with a conventional treatment process and the contributions of different processes to the risk reduction of MPs were explored. Six types of MPs were detected: polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyamide, and polyvinyl chloride. 2-5 μm (35.8-41.2%) and polyethylene terephthalate (27.1-29.9%) were the most frequently detected MP sizes and types of water source samples, respectively. The abundance of MPs in treated water decreased by 72.7-83.0% compared to raw water. Ozonation and granular activated carbon (52.7%), and sand filtration (47.5%) were the most effective processes for removing MPs from DWTP1 and DWTP2, respectively. Both DWTPs showed significant removal effects on polyethylene terephthalate, with 80.0-88.1% removal rates. The concentrations of polystyrene increase by 30.0-53.4% after chlorination. The dominant components in the treated water of DWTP1 and DWTP2 were polypropylene (24.7%) and polyethylene 27.7%, respectively, and MPs of 2-5 μm had the highest proportion (55.3-64.3%). Pollution load index and potential ecological risk index of raw water treated by DWTPs were reduced by 48.0-58.7% and 94.5-94.7%, respectively. The estimated daily intake of MPs in treated water for infants was 45.5-75.0 items/kg/d, respectively, approximately twice that of adults. This study contributes to the knowledge gap regarding MP pollution in drinking water systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Han
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jiali Jiang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jing Xia
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Chicheng Yan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Changzheng Cui
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Shi K, Zhang H, Gao J, Zhang J, Zhang X, Kan G, Jiang J. Detection of nanoplastics released from consumer plastic food containers by electromagnetic heating pyrolysis mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1296:342344. [PMID: 38401923 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics released from consumer plastic food containers are emerging environmental pollutants and directly ingested as part of the diet. However, quantification methods for nanoplastics are still lacking. Herein, a rapid identification and mass quantification approach was developed for nanoplastics analysis by combining electromagnetic heating with pyrolysis mass spectrometry (Eh-Py-MS). The pyrolysis products directly entered into the MS, which omits the gas phase separation process and shortens the detection time. A compact pyrolysis chamber was used and this increased the sample transfer efficiency and lowered power requirement. The operational parameters were systematically examined. The influence of nanoplastic size, additive, humic acid, and aging on detection was investigated, and it was concluded that environmental factors (humic acid, aging) and plastic properties (size, additives) did not influence the detection. The developed chamber showed that the limit of detection of polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics was 15.72 ng. Several typical food packages were demonstrated with satisfactory recovery rates (87.5-110%) and precision (RSD ≤11.36%). These results suggested that the consumer plastic food containers are a significant source of direct exposure to nanoplastics in humans from the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Shi
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China; School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China.
| | - Jikun Gao
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Jiaqian Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Xiangnan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, 224051, PR China
| | - Guangfeng Kan
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Jie Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China; School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liang X, Andrikopoulos N, Tang H, Wang Y, Ding F, Ke PC. Nanoplastic Stimulates the Amyloidogenesis of Parkinson's Alpha-Synuclein NACore. Small 2024; 20:e2308753. [PMID: 37988678 PMCID: PMC10994764 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Environmental plastic wastes are potential health hazards due to their prevalence as well as their versatility in initiating physical, chemical, and biological interactions and transformations. Indeed, recent research has implicated the adverse effects of micro- and nano-plastics, including their neurotoxicity, yet how plastic particulates may impact the aggregation pathway and toxicity of amyloid proteins pertinent to the pathologies of neurological diseases remains unknown. Here, electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS) is employed to reveal the polymorphic oligomerization of NACore, a surrogate of alpha-synuclein that is associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. These data indicate that the production rate and population of the NACore oligomers are modulated by their exposure to a polystyrene nanoplastic, and these cellular assays further reveal an elevated NACore toxicity in microglial cells elicited by the nanoplastic. These simulations confirm that the nanoplastic-NACore association is promoted by their hydrophobic interactions. These findings are corroborated by an impairment in zebrafish hatching, survival, and development in vivo upon their embryonic exposure to the nanoplastic. Together, this study has uncovered the dynamics and mechanism of amyloidogenesis elevated by a nanoplastic trigger, shedding a new light on the neurological burden of plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiufang Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
| | - Nicholas Andrikopoulos
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Huayuan Tang
- College of Mechanics and Materials, Hohai University, Nanjing, 211100, China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Pu Chun Ke
- Nanomedicine Center, The Great Bay Area National Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation, 136 Kaiyuan Avenue, Guangzhou, 510700, China
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wan S, Wang X, Chen W, Wang M, Zhao J, Xu Z, Wang R, Mi C, Zheng Z, Zhang H. Exposure to high dose of polystyrene nanoplastics causes trophoblast cell apoptosis and induces miscarriage. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:13. [PMID: 38454452 PMCID: PMC10921758 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-024-00574-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With rapid increase in the global use of various plastics, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) pollution and their adverse health effects have attracted global attention. MPs have been detected out in human body and both MPs and NPs showed female reproductive toxicological effects in animal models. Miscarriage (abnormal early embryo loss), accounting for 15-25% pregnant women worldwide, greatly harms human reproduction. However, the adverse effects of NPs on miscarriage have never been explored. RESULTS In this study, we identified that polystyrene (PS) plastics particles were present in women villous tissues. Their levels were higher in villous tissues of unexplained recurrent miscarriage (RM) patients vs. healthy control (HC) group. Furthermore, mouse assays further confirmed that exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 50 nm in diameter, 50 or 100 mg/kg) indeed induced miscarriage. In mechanism, PS-NPs exposure (50, 100, 150, or 200 µg/mL) increased oxidative stress, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased apoptosis in human trophoblast cells by activating Bcl-2/Cleaved-caspase-2/Cleaved-caspase-3 signaling through mitochondrial pathway. The alteration in this signaling was consistent in placental tissues of PS-NPs-exposed mouse model and in villous tissues of unexplained RM patients. Supplement with Bcl-2 could efficiently suppress apoptosis in PS-NPs-exposed trophoblast cells and reduce apoptosis and alleviate miscarriage in PS-NPs-exposed pregnant mouse model. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to PS-NPs activated Bcl-2/Cleaved-caspase-2/Cleaved-caspase-3, leading to excessive apoptosis in human trophoblast cells and in mice placental tissues, further inducing miscarriage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shukun Wan
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health & West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoqing Wang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health & West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Weina Chen
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health & West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Manli Wang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingsong Zhao
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhongyan Xu
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chenyang Mi
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhaodian Zheng
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huidong Zhang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 518033, Shenzhen, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xiao S, Filippini A, Casadei M, Caracciolo G, Digiacomo L, Rossetta A. Fast and portable fluorescence lifetime analysis for early warning detection of micro- and nanoplastics in water. Environ Res 2024; 244:117936. [PMID: 38109963 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
The presence of plastic fragments in aquatic environments, particularly at the micro- and nano-scale, has become a significant global concern. However, current detection methods are limited in their ability to reveal the presence of such particles in liquid samples. In this study, we propose the use of a fluorescence lifetime analysis system for the detection of micro- and nanoplastics in water. This approach relies on the inherent endogenous fluorescence of plastic materials and involves the collection of single photons emitted by plastic fragments upon exposure to a pulsed laser beam. Briefly, a pulsed laser beam (repetition frequency = 40 MHz) shines onto a sample solution, and the emitted light is filtered, collected, and used to trace the time distributions of the photons with high temporal resolution. Finally, the fluorescence lifetime was measured using fitting procedures and a phasor analysis. Phasor analysis is a fit-free method that allows the measurement of the fluorescence lifetime of a sample without any assumptions or prior knowledge of the sample decay pattern. The developed instrument was tested using fluorescence references and validated using unlabelled micro- and nano-scale particles. Our system successfully detected polystyrene particles in water, achieving a remarkable sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.01 mg/mL, without the need for sample pre-treatment or visual inspection. Although further studies are necessary to enhance the detection limit of the technique and distinguish between different plastic materials, this proof-of-concept study suggests the potential of the fluorescence lifetime-based approach as a rapid, robust, and cost-effective method for early warning detection and identification of plastic contaminants in aquatic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyao Xiao
- NanoDelivery Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Filippini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Casadei
- FLIM LABS S.r.l., Via della Farnesina 3, 00135, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Caracciolo
- NanoDelivery Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Digiacomo
- NanoDelivery Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Canga EM, Gowen A, Xu JL. Assessing the inconsistency of microplastic measurements in foods and beverages. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13315. [PMID: 38462817 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the food chain has gained substantial recognition as a pressing concern, highlighting the inevitability of human exposure through ingestion of foodborne MPs, coupled with the release of MPs from plastic packaging. However, there are notable disparities in the reported numbers of MPs in foods and beverages, warranting a thorough investigation into the factors contributing to these discrepancies. Table salt is one of the major sources of MPs, and there was an approximately hundred-fold difference between the reviewed studies that reported the highest and lowest number of MPs. In addition, more noticeable discrepancies were discovered between studies on MPs released from teabags. One study reported that approximately 15 billion MPs were released into a cup of tea from a single teabag, whereas another research paper found only approximately 106.3 ± 14.6 MP/teabag after brewing. This comprehensive review focuses on the inconsistencies observed across studies examining MPs, shedding light on the plausible factors underlying these variations. Furthermore, the review outlines areas in analytical procedures that require enhancement and offers recommendations to promote accuracy and standardization in future research efforts, such as employing analytical methods capable of confirming the presence of MPs, using appropriate filter sizes, considering representative sample sizes when extrapolation is involved, and so on. By pinpointing the detection processes leading to the inconsistent results observed in MP studies, this comparative analysis will contribute to the development of reliable analytic methods for understanding the extent of microplastic contamination in the human food chain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emine Merve Canga
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aoife Gowen
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jun-Li Xu
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Haleem N, Kumar P, Zhang C, Jamal Y, Hua G, Yao B, Yang X. Microplastics and associated chemicals in drinking water: A review of their occurrence and human health implications. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:169594. [PMID: 38154642 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have entered drinking water (DW) via various pathways, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. This study provides a comprehensive review of MP-associated chemicals, such as oligomers, plasticizers, stabilizers, and ultraviolet (UV) filters that can be leached out during DW treatment and distribution. The leaching of these chemicals is influenced by various environmental and operating factors, with three major ones identified: MP concentration and polymer type, pH, and contact time. The leaching process is substantially enhanced during the disinfection step of DW treatment, due to ultraviolet light and/or disinfectant-triggered reactions. The study also reviewed human exposure to MPs and associated chemicals in DW, as well as their health impacts on the human nervous, digestive, reproductive, and hepatic systems, especially the neuroendocrine toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. An overview of MPs in DW, including tap water and bottled water, was also presented to enable a background understanding of MPs-associated chemicals. In short, certain chemicals leached from MPs in DW can have significant implications for human health and demand further research on their long-term health impacts, mitigation strategies, and interactions with other pollutants such as disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). This study is anticipated to facilitate the research and management of MPs in DW and beverages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noor Haleem
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA; Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Yousuf Jamal
- Institute of Chemical Engineering & Technology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Guanghui Hua
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Bin Yao
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Xufei Yang
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chabi K, Li J, Ye C, Kiki C, Xiao X, Li X, Guo L, Gad M, Feng M, Yu X. Rapid sand filtration for <10 μm-sized microplastic removal in tap water treatment: Efficiency and adsorption mechanisms. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:169074. [PMID: 38056676 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The omnipresence of microplastics (MPs) in potable water has become a major concern due to their potential disruptive effect on human health. Therefore, the effective removal of MPs in drinking water is essential for life preservation. In this study, tap water containing microplastic <10 μm in size was treated using constructed pilot-scale rapid sand filtration (RSF) system to investigate the removal efficiency and the mechanisms involved. The results show that the RSF provides significant capacity for the removal and immobilization of MPs < 10 μm diameter (achieving 98 %). Results showed that silicate sand reacted with MPs through a cooperative assembly process, which mainly involved interception, trapping, entanglement, and adsorption. The MPs were quantified by Flow cytometry instrument. A kinetics study underlined the pivotal role of physio-chemisorption in the removal process. MP particles smaller than absorbents, saturation of adsorbents, and reactor hydrodynamics were identified as limiting factors, which were alleviated by backwashing. Backwashing promoted the desorption of up to 97 % MPs, conducive for adsorbent active site regeneration. These findings revealed the critical role of RSF and the importance of backwashing in removing MPs. Understanding the mechanisms involved in removing microplastics from drinking water is crucial in developing more efficient strategies to eliminate them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kassim Chabi
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Faculty of Sciences and Technic Abomey - Calavi, University of Abomey-Calavi, 01 BP: 526 Cotonou, Benin
| | - Jianguo Li
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chengsong Ye
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Claude Kiki
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Faculty of Sciences and Technic Abomey - Calavi, University of Abomey-Calavi, 01 BP: 526 Cotonou, Benin
| | - Xinyan Xiao
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xi Li
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Lizheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Mahmoud Gad
- Water Pollution Research Department, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mingbao Feng
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xin Yu
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Patil S, Bafana A, Krishnamurthi K, Sivanesan S. Estimated exposure to microplastics through national and local brands of bottled water in Central India. Environ Monit Assess 2024; 196:240. [PMID: 38324193 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12387-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that affect various environmental matrices, including air, water, soil, food, and beverages. In India, there is limited research on microplastics in bottled drinking water, which is a significant route of MP exposure to the human body. To date, the data on the occurrence of MPs in national and local bottled water brands have not been studied and compared. Therefore, the current study focuses on the contamination of MPs in bottled water from different national and local brands procured from the market of Nagpur, India. The MPs were observed in all the analyzed samples. It was observed that the local bottled water showed higher MP contamination compared to national bottled water, with MP concentrations of 212 ± 100 MPs/L and 72 ± 36 MPs/L, respectively. The MPs were identified and characterized using microscopic and attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) analysis, revealing that the dominant MP particles were fragments (71%), followed by fibers (23%), and others (6%). Among the observed particles, 50% of particles were black colored, followed by transparent (16%), red (13%), orange (8%), green (3%), blue (5%), and yellow (5%). The predominant polymer types were polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Overall, the pollution load indices suggested a moderate level of contamination in bottled water samples. Furthermore, the estimated annual human exposure to MPs was calculated as 5186 ± 3751 p/kg-bw/year for children and 1482 ± 1072 p/kg-bw/year for adults, making it a significant route of human exposure to MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sakshi Patil
- Health and Toxicity Cell (HTC), CSIR - NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute) Campus, Nagpur, 440020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Amit Bafana
- Health and Toxicity Cell (HTC), CSIR - NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute) Campus, Nagpur, 440020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Kannan Krishnamurthi
- Health and Toxicity Cell (HTC), CSIR - NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute) Campus, Nagpur, 440020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Saravanadevi Sivanesan
- Health and Toxicity Cell (HTC), CSIR - NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute) Campus, Nagpur, 440020, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ye R, Li Z, Xian H, Zhong Y, Liang B, Huang Y, Chen D, Dai M, Tang S, Guo J, Bai R, Feng Y, Chen Z, Yang X, Huang Z. Combined Effects of Polystyrene Nanosphere and Homosolate Exposures on Estrogenic End Points in MCF-7 Cells and Zebrafish. Environ Health Perspect 2024; 132:27011. [PMID: 38381479 PMCID: PMC10880820 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and homosalate (HMS) are ubiquitous emerging environmental contaminants detected in human samples. Despite the well-established endocrine-disrupting effects (EDEs) of HMS, the interaction between MNPs and HMS and its impact on HMS-induced EDEs remain unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the influence of MNPs on HMS-induced estrogenic effects and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. METHODS We assessed the impact of polystyrene nanospheres (PNSs; 50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) on HMS-induced MCF-7 cell proliferation (HMS: 0.01 - 1 μ M , equivalent to 2.62 - 262 μ g / L ) using the E-SCREEN assay and explored potential mechanisms through transcriptomics. Adult zebrafish were exposed to HMS (0.0262 - 262 μ g / L ) with or without PNSs (50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) for 21 d. EDEs were evaluated through gonadal histopathology, fertility tests, steroid hormone synthesis, and gene expression changes in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis. RESULTS Coexposure of HMS and PNSs resulted in higher expression of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) and the mRNAs of target genes (pS2, AREG, and PGR), a greater estrogen-responsive element transactivation activity, and synergistic stimulation on MCF-7 cell proliferation. Knockdown of serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) rescued the MCF-7 cell proliferation induced by PNSs alone or in combination with HMS. In zebrafish, coexposure showed higher expression of SGK1 and promoted ovary development but inhibited spermatogenesis. In addition, coexposure led to lower egg hatchability, higher embryonic mortality, and greater larval malformation. Coexposure also modulated steroid hormone synthesis genes (cyp17a2, hsd17[Formula: see text]1, esr2b, vtg1, and vtg2), and resulted in higher 17 β -estradiol (E 2 ) release in females. Conversely, males showed lower testosterone, E 2 , and gene expressions of cyp11a1, cyp11a2, cyp17a1, cyp17a2, and hsd17[Formula: see text]1. DISCUSSION PNS exposure exacerbated HMS-induced estrogenic effects via SGK1 up-regulation in MCF-7 cells and disrupting the HPGL axis in zebrafish, with gender-specific patterns. This offers new mechanistic insights and health implications of MNP and contaminant coexposure. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13696.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rongyi Ye
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyi Xian
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yizhou Zhong
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuji Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da Chen
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Shuqin Tang
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Guo
- Hunter Biotechnology, Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruobing Bai
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Feng
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenguo Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen H, Wan L, Qiu Y, Qiu F, Wen C, Mao Y, He Z. Microplastics exposure induced and exacerbated the development of systemic lupus erythematosus in mice. Sci Total Environ 2024; 909:168586. [PMID: 37981148 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure may function as a contributing risk factor in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Recently, the global issue of microplastics (MPs) pollution has garnered increasing concern, yet its potential impact on SLE remains unexplored. This study seeks to elucidate the ramifications of MPs exposure on lupus manifestations in spontaneous lupus MRL/lpr mice and normal C57L/6 mice. MPs exposure demonstrated the capacity to induce lupus-like symptoms in C57BL/6 mice and exacerbate lupus symptoms in MRL/lpr mice. This was manifested by MPs triggering abnormal elevation of spleen DN T, plasma cells, serum anti-dsDNA, ANA, IL-6, and TNF-α, coupled with a reduction in spleen CD4+/CD8+ cell ratio, and impairment in renal pathology. Moreover, a 4D-DIA quantitative proteomic analysis was employed to unveil substantial alterations in renal proteins attributed to MPs exposure. The findings indicated that the KEGG pathways significantly enriched by MPs-associated different proteins in C57BL/6 mice were closely aligned with the enriched KEGG pathways associated with lupus. Unlike C57BL/6 mice, there were no significantly enriched KEGG pathways identified among the MPs-associated different proteins in MRL/lpr mice. In addition, proteins related to the SLE pathway illuminated that MPs exposure induced renal damage through activation of MHCII and histone H3, culminating in the production of MAC in both C57BL/6 and MRL/lpr mice. However, a specific elevation in cathepsin and elastase caused by MPs was observed in C57BL/6 mice but not in MRL/lpr mice. This study represents a significant stride in bridging the existing knowledge gap pertaining to the intricate relationship between MPs exposure and the development of SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huinan Chen
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Li Wan
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yiwu Qiu
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Fuhai Qiu
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yingying Mao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
| | - Zhixing He
- Research Institute of Chinese Medical Clinical Foundation and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Qian N, Gao X, Lang X, Deng H, Bratu TM, Chen Q, Stapleton P, Yan B, Min W. Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2300582121. [PMID: 38190543 PMCID: PMC10801917 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2300582121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics are now omnipresent in our daily lives. The existence of microplastics (1 µm to 5 mm in length) and possibly even nanoplastics (<1 μm) has recently raised health concerns. In particular, nanoplastics are believed to be more toxic since their smaller size renders them much more amenable, compared to microplastics, to enter the human body. However, detecting nanoplastics imposes tremendous analytical challenges on both the nano-level sensitivity and the plastic-identifying specificity, leading to a knowledge gap in this mysterious nanoworld surrounding us. To address these challenges, we developed a hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging platform with an automated plastic identification algorithm that allows micro-nano plastic analysis at the single-particle level with high chemical specificity and throughput. We first validated the sensitivity enhancement of the narrow band of SRS to enable high-speed single nanoplastic detection below 100 nm. We then devised a data-driven spectral matching algorithm to address spectral identification challenges imposed by sensitive narrow-band hyperspectral imaging and achieve robust determination of common plastic polymers. With the established technique, we studied the micro-nano plastics from bottled water as a model system. We successfully detected and identified nanoplastics from major plastic types. Micro-nano plastics concentrations were estimated to be about 2.4 ± 1.3 × 105 particles per liter of bottled water, about 90% of which are nanoplastics. This is orders of magnitude more than the microplastic abundance reported previously in bottled water. High-throughput single-particle counting revealed extraordinary particle heterogeneity and nonorthogonality between plastic composition and morphologies; the resulting multidimensional profiling sheds light on the science of nanoplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naixin Qian
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xiaoqi Lang
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Huiping Deng
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | | | - Qixuan Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY10032
| | - Phoebe Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ08854
| | - Beizhan Yan
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | - Wei Min
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Vitali C, Peters RJB, Janssen HG, Undas AK, Munniks S, Ruggeri FS, Nielen MWF. Quantitative image analysis of microplastics in bottled water using artificial intelligence. Talanta 2024; 266:124965. [PMID: 37487270 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.124965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment and the use of plastics in packaging materials result in the presence of MPs in the food chain and exposure of consumers. Yet, no fully validated analytical method is available for microplastic (MP) quantification, thereby preventing the reliable estimation of the level of exposure and, ultimately, the assessment of the food safety risks associated with MP contamination. In this study, a novel approach is presented that exploits interactive artificial intelligence tools to enable automation of MP analysis. An integrated method for the analysis of MPs in bottled water based on Nile Red staining and fluorescent microscopy was developed and validated, featuring a partial interrogation of the filter and a fully automated image processing workflow based on a Random Forest classifier, thereby boosting the analysis speed. The image analysis provided particle count, size and size distribution of the MPs. From these data, a rough estimation of the mass of the individual MPs, and consequently of the MP mass concentration in the sample, could be obtained as well. Critical materials, method performance characteristics, and final applicability were studied in detail. The method showed to be highly sensitive in sizing MPs down to 10 μm, with a particle count limit of detection and quantification of 28 and 85 items/500 mL, respectively. Linearity of mass concentration determined between 10 ppb and 1.5 ppm showed a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.99. Method precision was demonstrated by a repeatability of 9-16% RSD (n = 7) and within-laboratory reproducibility of 15-27% RSD (n = 21). Accuracy based on recovery was 92 ± 15% and 98 ± 23% at a level of 0.1 and 1.0 ppm, respectively. The quantitative performance characteristics thus obtained complied with regulatory requirements. Finally, the method was successfully applied to the analysis of twenty commercial samples of bottled water, with and without gas and flavor additives, yielding results ranging from values below the limit of detection to 7237 (95% CI [6456, 8088]) items/500 mL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clementina Vitali
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708 WB, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Wageningen University, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Ruud J B Peters
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708 WB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Hans-Gerd Janssen
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Unilever Foods Innovation Centre - Hive, Bronland 14, 6708 WH, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna K Undas
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708 WB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra Munniks
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708 WB, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Francesco Simone Ruggeri
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Wageningen University, Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Michel W F Nielen
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708 WB, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Wageningen University, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Limsiriwong K, Winijkul E. Exploring Personal Exposure to Airborne Microplastics across Various Work Environments in Pathum Thani Province, Thailand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:7162. [PMID: 38131714 PMCID: PMC10743124 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20247162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
This study used personal air samplers to assess the concentration of airborne microplastics exposed by different occupational groups during their working hours. The personal air sampler was placed in the "breathing zone" of the worker during working hours to collect microplastic exposure data. Occupations examined included housekeepers, laundromat staff, office workers, van drivers, street vendors, maintenance technicians in wastewater treatment plants, and waste segregation officers in the university and market. The level of airborne microplastic exposure was found to be influenced by the daily activities and environmental conditions of the workplace. Waste segregation officers in the university and market exhibited the highest levels of exposure to airborne microplastics, at 3964 ± 2575 microplastics per cubic meter (n/m3) and 3474 ± 678 n/m3, respectively. Further analysis focused on airborne microplastics less than 10 µm in size which can be taken in through inhalation. During the 8 h working period, the waste segregation officer in the university recorded the highest 10 µm airborne microplastic intake, at 5460 pieces, followed by the waste segregation officer in the market at 3301 pieces, housekeepers at 899 pieces, van drivers at 721 pieces, maintenance technicians in WWTPs at 668 pieces, laundromat staff at 454 pieces, street vendors at 249 pieces, and office workers at 131 pieces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ekbordin Winijkul
- Environmental Engineering and Management, Asian Institute of Technology, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand;
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Vega-Herrera A, Garcia-Torné M, Borrell-Diaz X, Abad E, Llorca M, Villanueva CM, Farré M. Exposure to micro(nano)plastics polymers in water stored in single-use plastic bottles. Chemosphere 2023; 343:140106. [PMID: 37689148 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to micro (nano)plastics (MNPLs) has become a significant concern as a potential health threat. Exposure routes include ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, being food and drinking water the primary sources of oral exposure. Here we present the quantification of polymers of MNPLs particles from 700 nm to 20 μm in bottled water commercialised in Spain, including an estimation of the potential risk for daily consumers. We evaluated samples from 20 popular brands in 0.5 and 1.5 L plastic bottles. A double-suspect screening approach developed and validated in our research group for drinking water was adapted for bottled water samples. The identification and quantification of MNPLs-polymers in mass units and the tentative identification of plastic additives (PA) until the second level of confidence was carried out based on high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS). The results showed the presence of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene terephthalate (PET) in the samples. Among them, PE was the most frequently detected and quantified polymer (55% of samples) followed by PET which was detected in 33% of the samples and showing the highest concentration (4700 ng L-1). The median value of the sum of polymer concentrations was 359 ng L-1. In addition, 28 plastic additives were detected, where at least one of them was present in 100% of the samples. Stabilizers and plasticisers were the most frequently identified. A prioritisation study was performed using a multi-QSAR modelling software, where bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate were estimated as the most potentially harmful compounds for human health. Overall, findings suggest that bottled water is a non-negligible route to exposure to MNPLs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Vega-Herrera
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Garcia-Torné
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Borrell-Diaz
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Abad
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Llorca
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina M Villanueva
- ISGlobal, C. Doctor Aiguader, 88, Barcelona, 08003, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Pl. de La Mercè, 10-12, Barcelona, 08002, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, Madrid, 28029, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Passeig Marítim, 25-29, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Marinella Farré
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dehghanian Z, Asgari Lajayer B, Biglari Quchan Atigh Z, Nayeri S, Ahmadabadi M, Taghipour L, Senapathi V, Astatkie T, Price GW. Micro (nano) plastics uptake, toxicity and detoxification in plants: Challenges and prospects. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2023; 268:115676. [PMID: 37979355 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has emerged as a global challenge affecting ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation. Terrestrial environments exhibit significantly higher plastic concentrations compared to aquatic systems. Micro/nano plastics (MNPs) have the potential to disrupt soil biology, alter soil properties, and influence soil-borne pathogens and roundworms. However, limited research has explored the presence and impact of MNPs on aquaculture systems. MNPs have been found to inhibit plant and seedling growth and affect gene expression, leading to cytogenotoxicity through increased oxygen radical production. The article discusses the potential phytotoxicity process caused by large-scale microplastics, particularly those unable to penetrate cell pores. It also examines the available data, albeit limited, to assess the potential risks to human health through plant uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Dehghanian
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran.
| | | | - Zahra Biglari Quchan Atigh
- Department of Civil Engineering and Smart Cities, College of Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China.
| | - Shahnoush Nayeri
- SP-Lab., ASEPE Company, Industrial Park of Advanced Technologies, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Ahmadabadi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Leila Taghipour
- Department of Horticultural Science, College of Agriculture, Jahrom University, PO Box: 74135-111, Jahrom, Iran.
| | | | - Tess Astatkie
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada.
| | - G W Price
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yang S, Lee S, Lee Y, Cho JH, Kim SH, Ha ES, Jung YS, Chung HY, Kim MS, Kim HS, Chang SC, Min KJ, Lee J. Cationic nanoplastic causes mitochondrial dysfunction in neural progenitor cells and impairs hippocampal neurogenesis. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:194-210. [PMID: 37553025 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) exposure to humans can occur through various routes, including the food chain, drinking water, skin contact, and respiration. NPs are plastics with a diameter of less than 100 nm and have the potential to accumulate in tissues, leading to toxic effects. This study aimed to investigate the neurotoxicity of polystyrene NPs on neural progenitor cells (NPCs) and hippocampal neurogenesis in a rodent model. Toxicity screening of polystyrene NPs based on their charge revealed that cationic amine-modified polystyrene (PS-NH3+) exhibited cytotoxicity, while anionic carboxylate-modified polystyrene (PS-COO-) and neutral NPs (PS) did not. NPCs treated with PS-NH3+ showed a significant reduction in growth rate due to G1 cell cycle arrest. PS-NH3+ increased the expression of cell cycle arrest markers p21 and p27, while decreasing cyclin D expression in NPCs. Interestingly, PS-NH3+ accumulated in mitochondria, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and energy depletion, which caused G1 cell cycle arrest. Prolonged exposure to PS-NH3+ in C17.2 NPCs increased the expression of p16 and senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors, indicating cellular senescence. In vivo studies using C57BL/6 mice demonstrated impaired hippocampal neurogenesis and memory retention after 10 days of PS-NH3+ administration. This study suggests that NPs could deplete neural stem cell pools in the brain by mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby adversely affecting hippocampal neurogenesis and neurocognitive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seonguk Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Seulah Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Yujeong Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea; Cognitive Science Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, 41068, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hyun Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Sou Hyun Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Sol Ha
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Suk Jung
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Young Chung
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Soo Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 2066, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Cheol Chang
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, College of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Jin Min
- Department of Biological Sciences, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Jaewon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Schalli M, Platzer S, Haas D, Reinthaler FF. The behaviour of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in bottled mineral water. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21634. [PMID: 38027778 PMCID: PMC10643266 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial contamination of bottled water during the filling and capping procedure is a problem which should be avoided. The examination of the influence of carbon dioxide (CO2) on bacterial growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) in bottled mineral water was the aim of this study. Commercially available glass bottles with plastic screw caps filled with natural mineral water (without additional CO2 "still" (StMW) and with CO2 "sparkling" (SpMW) were obtained from a manufacturer in the province of Styria, Austria. The artificial contamination was performed in the lab by opening the bottle with subsequent addition of a bacterial solution with a defined number of bacteria. For each bacterial strain, 12 bottles were prepared. Samples (100 mL) were taken after a specific number of days, filtrated and placed on Endo Agar for cultivation. After incubation for 24 h bacterial colonies were counted. In this study CO2 addition to bottled water reduced colony forming units of the two investigated bacterial strains over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schalli
- Department for Water-Hygiene and Micro-Ecology, D&R Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Sabine Platzer
- Department for Water-Hygiene and Micro-Ecology, D&R Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Doris Haas
- Applied Hygiene and Aerobiology, D&R Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Franz F. Reinthaler
- Department for Water-Hygiene and Micro-Ecology, D&R Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8010, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhou W, Tong D, Tian D, Yu Y, Huang L, Zhang W, Yu Y, Lu L, Zhang X, Pan W, Shen J, Shi W, Liu G. Exposure to Polystyrene Nanoplastics Led to Learning and Memory Deficits in Zebrafish by Inducing Oxidative Damage and Aggravating Brain Aging. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301799. [PMID: 37611966 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) may pass through the blood-brain barrier, giving rise to serious concerns about their potential toxicity to the brain. In this study, the effects of NPs exposure on learning and memory, the primary cognitive functions of the brain, are assessed in zebrafish with classic T-maze exploration tasks. Additionally, to reveal potential affecting mechanisms, the impacts of NPs exposure on brain aging, oxidative damage, energy provision, and the cell cycle are evaluated. The results demonstrate that NP-exposed zebrafish takes significantly longer for their first entry and spends markedly less time in the reward zone in the T-maze task, indicating the occurrence of learning and memory deficits. Moreover, higher levels of aging markers (β-galactosidase and lipofuscin) are detected in the brains of NP-exposed fish. Along with the accumulation of reactive free radicals, NP-exposed zebrafish suffer significant levels of brain oxidative damage. Furthermore, lower levels of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 and higher levels of p53 are observed in the brains of NP-exposed zebrafish, suggesting that NPs exposure also results in a shortage of energy supply and an arrestment of the cell cycle. These findings suggest that NPs exposure may pose a severe threat to brain health, which deserves closer attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weishang Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Difei Tong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Dandan Tian
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Yingying Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Lin Huang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Weixia Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Yihan Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Lingzheng Lu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Xunyi Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Wangqi Pan
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Jiawei Shen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Wei Shi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Guangxu Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Di Fiore C, Carriera F, Russo MV, Avino P. Are Microplastics a Macro Issue? A Review on the Sources of Contamination, Analytical Challenges and Impact on Human Health of Microplastics in Food. Foods 2023; 12:3915. [PMID: 37959034 PMCID: PMC10647536 DOI: 10.3390/foods12213915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, human populations' exposure to microplastics via foods is becoming a topic of concern. Although microplastics have been defined as "emerging contaminants", their occurrence in the environment and food is quite dated. This systematic review aims to investigate the discrepancies which are characterizing the research in the microplastics field in foods, with particular regard to sample preparations, microplastics' concentrations and their effect on humans. For the selection of papers, the PRISMA methodology was followed. Discrepancies in the methodological approaches emerged and in the expression of the results as well, underlying the urgency in the harmonization of the methodological approaches. Uncertainties are still present regarding the adverse effects of microplastics on the human body. The scientific evidence obtained thus far is, in fact, not sufficient to demonstrate a concrete negative effect. This review has clearly underlined the need to standardise laboratory approaches to obtain useful results for better food safety management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Di Fiore
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Fabiana Carriera
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy
| | - Mario Vincenzo Russo
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Pasquale Avino
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
- Institute of Atmospheric Pollution Research, Division of Rome, c/o Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, 00147 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Krishna de Guzman M, Stanic-Vucinic D, Gligorijevic N, Wimmer L, Gasparyan M, Lujic T, Vasovic T, Dailey LA, Van Haute S, Cirkovic Velickovic T. Small polystyrene microplastics interfere with the breakdown of milk proteins during static in vitro simulated human gastric digestion. Environ Pollut 2023; 335:122282. [PMID: 37516294 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Human ingestion of microplastics (MPs) is common and inevitable due to the widespread contamination of food items, but implications on the gastric digestion of food proteins are still unknown. In this study, the interactions between pepsin and polystyrene (PS) MPs were evaluated by investigating enzyme activity and conformation in a simulated human gastric environment in the presence or absence of PS MPs. The impact on food digestion was also assessed by monitoring the kinetics of protein hydrolysis through static in vitro gastric digestion of cow's milk contaminated with PS. The binding of pepsin to PS showed that the surface chemistry of MPs dictates binding affinity. The key contributor to pepsin adsorption seems to be π-π interactions between the aromatic residues and the PS phenyl rings. During quick exposure (10 min) of pepsin to increasing concentrations (222, 2219, 22188 particles/mL) of 10 μm PS (PS10) and 100 μm PS (PS100), total enzymatic activities were not affected remarkably. However, upon prolonged exposure at 1 and 2 h, preferential binding of pepsin to the small, low zeta-potential PS caused structural changes in the protein which led to a significant reduction of its activity. Digestion of cow's milk mixed with PS10 resulted in transient accumulation of larger peptides (10-35 kDa) and reduced bioavailability of short peptides (2-9 kDa) in the gastric phase. This, however, was only observed at extremely high PS10 concentration (0.3 mg/mL or 5.46E+05 particles/mL). The digestion of milk peptides, bound preferentially over pepsin within the hard corona on the PS10 surface, was delayed up to 15 min in comparison to bulk protein digestion. Intact caseins, otherwise rapidly digested, remained bound to PS10 in the hard corona for up to 15 min. This work presents valuable insights regarding the interaction of MPs, food proteins, and pepsin, and their dynamics during gastric digestion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Krishna de Guzman
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Center for Food Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dragana Stanic-Vucinic
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nikola Gligorijevic
- Department of Chemistry, University of Belgrade - Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Lukas Wimmer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Manvel Gasparyan
- Center for Biosystems and Biotech Data Science, Ghent University Global Campus, Republic of Korea; School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tamara Lujic
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Vasovic
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Lea Ann Dailey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sam Van Haute
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Center for Food Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tanja Cirkovic Velickovic
- Department of Food Technology, Safety, and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Center for Food Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, Republic of Korea; Center of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia; Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bai R, Fan R, Xie C, Liu Q, Liu Q, Yan C, Cui J, He W. Microplastics are overestimated due to poor quality control of reagents. J Hazard Mater 2023; 459:132068. [PMID: 37494798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely distributed in the environment and pose potential ecological risks, increasing to be one of the most important environmental pollutants. However, when assessing the characteristics of microplastic contamination in environmental samples, inadequate quality control measures for the working solutions may introduce additional microplastic contamination and lead to an overestimation of microplastic abundance in the samples. In this study, we evaluated the microplastic contamination characteristics in commonly used flotation and digestion reagents to assess errors caused by microplastics in the reagents. The results showed that the abundance of microplastics in the reagents ranged from 0.8 to 43.4 items/g, with the abundance of microplastics in flotation reagents being lower than that in digestion reagents. The shapes of the detected microplastics included particles, fibers, and fragments, and their size and outline were generally small, with most being below 100 µm. The most common types of polymers detected were polyethylene and polypropylene. In order to improve the universality and readability of the results, the detected microplastic abundances were converted into the actual application concentration of the working fluid. It was found that the potential contamination of microplastics in untreated flotation solutions ranged from 1.5 to 30.8 items/mL, while in digestion solutions ranged from 0.1 to 2.3 items/mL. Our study emphasizes the need for quality control measures, such as suction filtration, when evaluating microplastics in environmental samples or conducting chemical and biological tests related to microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runhao Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ruiqi Fan
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Changhong Xie
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Changrong Yan
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jixiao Cui
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Wenqing He
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kashfi FS, Mohammadi A, Rostami F, Savari A, De-la-Torre GE, Spitz J, Saeedi R, Kalantarhormozi M, Farhadi A, Dobaradaran S. Microplastics and phthalate esters release from teabags into tea drink: occurrence, human exposure, and health risks. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:104209-104222. [PMID: 37697202 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Tea, the most common infusion worldwide, is usually sold in teabags due to the ease of usage. The increase in the use of plastic materials in the food packaging industry has led to an increase in released contaminants, such as microplastics (MPs) and phthalates (PAEs), in various food products including teabags. In this research, the abundance and features of MPs as well as PAEs concentration were investigated in 45 teabag samples of different Persian and German brands. The abundance of MPs in the Persian and German teabag samples was averagely 412.32 and 147.28 items/single teabag, respectively. Also, average PAEs levels in the Persian and German teabag samples were 2.87 and 2.37 mg/g, respectively. The predominant size category of MPs was related to 100-250 μm. Fibers and transparent were the dominant shape and color of detected MPs in teabags, respectively. Polyethylene (PE) and nylon were the most common MP polymer types. The most prominent PAEs congeners in teabag samples were diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP). Furthermore, MP exposure hazard through tea ingestion was analyzed for children and adults. DEHP showed the cancer risk (CR) for children and adults. The findings of this research indicated that high MPs and PAEs levels are released from teabags into tea drinks. Considering a daily drinking of a volume of 150 and 250 mL tea by children and adults, 486 and 810 MPs may enter their bodies, respectively. Thus, tea prepared with teabag-packed herbs may pose a significant health risk for consumers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadat Kashfi
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Azam Mohammadi
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Rostami
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Arezou Savari
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Biodiversity, Environment, and Society Research Group, San Ignacio de Loyola University, Lima, Peru
| | - Jörg Spitz
- Akademie Für Menschliche Medizin GmbH, Krauskopfallee 27, 65388, Schlangenbad, Germany
| | - Reza Saeedi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Health, Safety and Environment, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Kalantarhormozi
- The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Akram Farhadi
- The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran.
- Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany.
- Centre for Water and Environmental Research, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, 45141, Essen, Germany.
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Boostan 19 Alley, Imam Khomeini Street, 7514763448, Bushehr, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Nacaratte F, Cuevas P, Becerra-Herrera M, Manzano CA. Early screening of suspected microplastics in bottled water in the Santiago Metropolitan Region of Chile. Environ Pollut 2023; 334:122118. [PMID: 37414125 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Bottled water has emerged as a possible healthier alternative due to concerns about the quality of drinking water sources. However, recent studies have detected worrying concentrations of environmental contaminants in bottled water, including microplastics. Therefore, it is an emerging need to quantify their concentrations in local suppliers which could differ among countries and regions. In this work, we used fluorescence microscopy with Nile Red for the identification and quantification of potential microplastics in twelve brands of bottled water distributed in the Santiago Metropolitan Region of Chile. The average concentration of microplastics was 391 ± 125 p L-1, while the highest concentration observed was 633 ± 33 p L-1. Microplastics between 5 and 20 μm were the major contributors, a size fraction that has been reported to be susceptible to accumulate in the digestive tract or generate potential alterations in the lymphatic and circulatory systems. The estimated daily intake value for per capita was estimated to be 229 p kg-1 year-1 for people weighing 65 kg and 198 p kg-1 year-1 for those weighing 75 kg.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fallon Nacaratte
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, RM, Chile.
| | - Paula Cuevas
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, RM, Chile
| | | | - Carlos A Manzano
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, RM, Chile; School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Caruso M, Distefano A, Emma R, Zuccarello P, Copat C, Ferrante M, Carota G, Pulvirenti R, Polosa R, Missale GA, Rust S, Raciti G, Li Volti G. In vitro cytoxicity profile of e-cigarette liquid samples on primary human bronchial epithelial cells. Drug Test Anal 2023; 15:1145-1155. [PMID: 35434934 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette smoke is associated to severe chronic diseases. The most harmful components of cigarette smoke derive from the combustion process, which are significantly reduced in the electronic cigarette aerosol, thus providing a valid option in harm reduction strategies. To develop safer products, it is therefore necessary to screen electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids) to meet high safety standards defined by government regulations. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of metal- and plastic-derived contaminants in four different commercial e-liquids with high concentration of nicotine and their cytotoxic effect in normal human bronchial epithelial cells by a number of in vitro assays, in comparison with the 1R6F reference cigarette, using an air-liquid interface (ALI) exposure system. Moreover, we evaluated the effect of aerosol exposure on oxidative stress by measuring the production of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial potential. Our results showed no contaminants in all e-liquids and a significantly reduced cytotoxic effect of e-liquid aerosol compared to cigarette smoke as well as a maintained mitochondria integrity. Moreover, no production of reactive oxygen species was detected with e-cigarette aerosol. In conclusion, these results support the reduced toxicity potential of e-cigs compared to tobacco cigarettes in an in vitro model resembling real life smoke exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Caruso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alfio Distefano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalia Emma
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Copat
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Catania, Italy
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carota
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberta Pulvirenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Riccardo Polosa
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- ECLAT Srl, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Sonja Rust
- ECLAT Srl, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Raciti
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center of Excellence for the Acceleration of Harm Reduction, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Aydın RB, Yozukmaz A, Şener İ, Temiz F, Giannetto D. Occurrence of Microplastics in Most Consumed Fruits and Vegetables from Turkey and Public Risk Assessment for Consumers. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1686. [PMID: 37629543 PMCID: PMC10455475 DOI: 10.3390/life13081686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics are transferred to humans through the food chain by consuming food contaminated with microplastics. However, the knowledge about the risks of dietary exposure for humans to these particles is very limited. Moreover, only a few studies on microplastic pollution in fruit and vegetables have been carried on. Thus, this study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in some of the most consumed fruits and vegetables (pear (Pyrus communis), apple (Malus domestica), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), onion (Allium cepa), potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus)) from Turkey and to evaluate the potential risk for consumers. Fruits and vegetable samples were purchased from different markets and fruiterer (two of each) in Muğla province, Southwest of Turkey. Microplastic extraction processes were carried out on the edible parts of the samples. According to the results obtained, a total of 210 particles (2.9 ± 1.6 particle g-1) were detected in all samples. Any significant difference occurred among the different markets. The maximum average amount of microplastic was determined in tomato samples (3.63 ± 1.39 particle g-1). The highest microplastic intake was with tomato (398,520 particles individual-1 year-1 for Estimated Annual Intake (EAI) and Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for children 68.24 particles kg-1 day-1). The occurrence of microplastics of big size, that are not allowed to pass by plant xylem transport, suggests that fresh vegetables and fruits can be contaminated with plastic, especially during the production phase, during agricultural activities and during the marketing process (transport to the market and purchasing process).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rana Berfin Aydın
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Aykut Yozukmaz
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - İdris Şener
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (A.Y.); (İ.Ş.)
| | - Funda Temiz
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| | - Daniela Giannetto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla 48000, Turkey; (R.B.A.); (F.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hettiarachchi H, Meegoda JN. Microplastic Pollution Prevention: The Need for Robust Policy Interventions to Close the Loopholes in Current Waste Management Practices. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6434. [PMID: 37510666 PMCID: PMC10379618 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Plastic materials that are less than 5 mm in size are defined as Microplastics (MPs). MPs that are intentionally produced are called primary MPs; however, the most abundant type in the environment consists of the remainder created by the fragmentation of large plastic debris through physical, chemical, and oxidative processes, which are called secondary MPs. Due to their abundance in the environment, poor degradability, toxicological properties, and negative impact on aquatic and terrestrial organisms, including humans, MP pollution has become a global environmental issue. Combatting MP pollution requires both remediation and preventive measures. Although remediation is a must, considering where the technology stands today, it may take long time to make it happen. Prevention, on the other hand, can be and should be done now. However, the effectiveness of preventive measures depends heavily on how well MP escape routes are researched and understood. In this research, we argue that such escape routes (rather, loopholes) exist not only due to mismanaged plastic waste, but also due to cracks in the current waste management systems. One known MP loophole is facilitated by wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). The inability of existing WWTP to retain finer MPs, which are finally released to water bodies together with the treated wastewater, along with the return of captured larger MPs back to landfills and their release into the environment through land applications, are a few examples. Organic waste composting and upcycling of waste incineration ash provide other MP escape pathways. In addition, it is important to understand that the plastics that are in current circulation (active use as well as idling) are responsible for producing MPs through regular wear and tear. Closing these loopholes may be best attempted through policy interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jay N Meegoda
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, University Heights, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Xu W, Yuan Y, Tian Y, Cheng C, Chen Y, Zeng L, Yuan Y, Li D, Zheng L, Luo T. Oral exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics reduced male fertility and even caused male infertility by inducing testicular and sperm toxicities in mice. J Hazard Mater 2023; 454:131470. [PMID: 37116333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are the novel hazardous materials and ubiquitous in environment with different sizes. Although recent studies showed testicular toxicity of PS-NPs, whether and how NPs affect male fertility and whether they have the size-dependent effect remain ambiguous in mammals. In this study, the male mice were orally exposed to 25-, 50-, and 100-nm polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) for 56 days. All three sized PS-NPs reduced male fertility and even caused male infertility. They accumulated in the testes, induced oxidative stress, affected the expression of apoptosis- and inflammation-related genes, and compromised energy metabolism, resulting in damaged testicular microstructure and functions. PS-NPs caused more severe testicular toxicity in infertile mice than in fertile mice. In addition, PS-NPs inhibited sperm capacitation and capacitation-dependent processes in infertile mice but not in fertile mice. In infertile mice, PS-NPs reduced the sperm levels of two Rho GTPases (RAC1 and CDC42) via increasing their ubiquitination levels and diminished sperm filamentous actin polymerization, thus inhibiting sperm capacitation. However, these testicular and sperm toxicities showed no size-dependent effect among three sized PS-NPs. In conclusion, PS-NPs inhibit male fertility by their multifaceted toxicity on testes and sperm in mice, providing novel insights into reproductive risks of NPs to mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Xu
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yan Tian
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Lianjie Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Liping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Tse YT, Lo HS, Tsang CW, Han J, Fang JKH, Chan SMN, Sze ETP. Quantitative analysis and risk assessment to full-size microplastics pollution in the coastal marine waters of Hong Kong. Science of The Total Environment 2023; 879:163006. [PMID: 36966838 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Given the potential risk to the ecosystem, attention has increased in recent decades to the contamination of the aquatic environment by microplastics (MPs). Due to the limitations of conventional analysis methods of MPs, little is known about the size distribution and abundance of a full-size MPs from 1 μm to 5 mm. The present study quantified MPs with size ranges of 50 μm - 5 mm and 1-50 μm in the coastal marine waters from twelve locations in Hong Kong using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry respectively, during the end of wet (September 2021) and dry (March 2022) seasons. The average abundance of MPs with size ranges of 50 μm - 5 mm and 1-50 μm from twelve sampling locations marine surface waters were found ranging from 27 to 104 particles L-1 and 43,675-387,901 particles L-1 in the wet season respectively, and 13-36 particles L-1 and 23,178-338,604 particles L-1 in the dry season respectively. Significant temporal and spatial variations of small MPs abundance might be observed at the sampling locations, which were contributed by the influences of the estuary of Pearl River, sewage discharge points, land structure, and other anthropogenic activities. Based on the MPs abundance information, ecological risk assessment was conducted and revealed that the small MPs (< 10 μm) in coastal marine surface waters may pose potential health risks to aquatic organisms. Additional risk assessments are needed in order to determine whether or not the MPs exposure would cause health risks to the public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuet-Tung Tse
- School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Hong Kong
| | - Hoi-Shing Lo
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Chi-Wing Tsang
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi), Chai Wan, Hong Kong
| | - Jie Han
- School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Hong Kong
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Sidney Man-Ngai Chan
- School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Hong Kong
| | - Eric Tung-Po Sze
- School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Altunışık A. Prevalence of microplastics in commercially sold soft drinks and human risk assessment. J Environ Manage 2023; 336:117720. [PMID: 36907066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the increasing global plastic production and use in recent years, the amount of microplastic (MP) accumulating in the environment has also increased. This microplastic pollution potential has been documented mostly in studies of the sea or seafood. The presence of microplastics in terrestrial foods has therefore attracted less attention, despite the potential for future major environmental risks. Some of these researches are related to bottled water, tap water, honey, table salt, milk, and soft drinks. However, the presence of microplastics in soft drinks has not yet been evaluated in the European continent, including Türkiye. Hence, the current study focused on the presence and distribution of microplastics in ten soft drink brands in Türkiye since the water utilized in the bottling process of soft drinks originates from different water supply sources. Using FTIR stereoscopy and stereomicroscope examination, MPs were detected in all of these brands. According to the microplastic contamination factor (MPCF) classification, 80% of the soft drink samples indicated a high level of contamination with microplastics. The study's findings showed that each liter of consumed soft drinks exposes people to about nine microplastic particles, which is a moderate dose when compared to exposure levels in earlier research. It has been determined that bottle-production processes and the substrates used for food production may be the main sources of these microplastics. The chemical components of these microplastic polymers were polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), and fibers were the dominant shape. Compared to adults, children were subjected to higher microplastic loads. The study's preliminary data on MP contamination of soft drinks may be useful for further evaluating the risks exposure to microplastics poses to human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Altunışık
- University of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
de Mello Pereira D, Mazon SC, Mendes EJ, Brunetto R, Ozelame B, Zembruski FS, Dalcin ALF, Marsaro IB, Aguiar GP, Lutinski JA, Tavella RA, da Silva Júnior FMR, Oliveira JV, Müller LG, Fiori MA, Sachett A, Siebel AM. Recycled polyvinyl chloride microplastics: investigation of environmentally relevant concentrations on toxicity in adult zebrafish. J Toxicol Environ Health A 2023; 86:347-360. [PMID: 37073468 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2023.2203154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Recycled polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics have been detected in the aquatic environment. These recycled microparticles contain chemicals that are released into the environment reaching different organisms. Although the problem of the presence of recycled PVC microparticles in the environment is evident, the toxicological consequences of this contaminant to exposed organisms remains to be better determined. The aim of this study was to investigate the toxicity attributed to exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of recycled PVC microplastics in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). The experimental groups were: negative control, vehicle control, positive control, and recycled microplastics (20 ± 5 μm) at 5, 10 or 20 μg/L. Zebrafish (D. rerio) were exposed to respective treatments for 96 hr. Locomotion and oxidative status parameters were measured and mortality recorded. The positive control group presented increased mortality rates and decreased locomotor activity. Animals from the vehicle group did not show marked differences. Finally, no significant disturbances were found in survival rate, locomotion pattern and oxidative status of animals exposed to recycled PVC microparticles at 5, 10 or 20 μg/L. Taken together our results suggest that recycled PVC microplastics in this particle size range do not appear to exert harmful effects on exposed adult D. rerio. However, these results need to be carefully observed due to limitations including size of particle and duration of exposure parameters that might affect ecological consequences. It is suggested that additional studies applying other particles sizes and chronic exposure are needed to more comprehensively verify the toxicity of the contaminant investigated here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danieli de Mello Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Samara Cristina Mazon
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Ellen Jaqueline Mendes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Raísa Brunetto
- Curso de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Bruna Ozelame
- Curso de Farmácia, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Laura Fiori Dalcin
- Curso de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | | | - Gean Pablo Aguiar
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Junir Antônio Lutinski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Ronan Adler Tavella
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Flávio Manoel Rodrigues da Silva Júnior
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - J Vladimir Oliveira
- Departamento de Engenharia Quíimica e de Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Liz Girardi Müller
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Márcio Antônio Fiori
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Pato Branco, Brazil
| | - Adrieli Sachett
- Curso de Farmácia, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
| | - Anna Maria Siebel
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
- Curso de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Chapecó, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Buyukunal SK, Koluman A, Muratoglu K. Microplastic pollution of drinking water in a metropolis. J Water Health 2023; 21:687-701. [PMID: 37387336 PMCID: wh_2023_265 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to identify microplastics (MPs) in drinking water from various sources in İstanbul that are known to pose potential health risks. One hundred drinking water samples were analysed. Samples were filtered with a glass filter (Ø: 1.0 μm). After filtration, microscopy was used, followed by SEM-EDS and ATR-FTIR identification to characterise MPs. Two shapes (fibers and fragments) and eight polymer types of MPs (ethylene propylene, neoprene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, vinyl chloride vinyl acetate copolymer) with sizes of 12-4892 µm (548 ± 777 µm) were detected. These MPs abundances ranged from 10 to 390 MP L-1 (134 ± 93 MP L-1). In the identification of MPs detected in filters by FTIR spectroscopy, bisphenol A, which is used in the production of various plastics and described as an important public health problem, was detected in 9.74% of MPs. Within the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals, UNEP has a specific objective of ensuring access to safe, affordable drinking water (SDG 6). With a clear statement, it should be emphasised that MPs are a significant barrier to the provision of safe drinking water, and a comprehensive plan for overcoming this barrier should be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Kemal Buyukunal
- Department of Food Hygiene and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, İstanbul, Türkiye E-mail:
| | - Ahmet Koluman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Türkiye
| | - Karlo Muratoglu
- Department of Food Hygiene and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, İstanbul, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Râpă M, Darie-Niță RN, Matei E, Predescu AM, Berbecaru AC, Predescu C. Insights into Anthropogenic Micro- and Nanoplastic Accumulation in Drinking Water Sources and Their Potential Effects on Human Health. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112425. [PMID: 37299225 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous pollutants found in aquatic, food, soil and air environments. Recently, drinking water for human consumption has been considered a significant pathway for ingestion of such plastic pollutants. Most of the analytical methods developed for detection and identification of MPs have been established for particles with sizes > 10 μm, but new analytical approaches are required to identify NPs below 1 μm. This review aims to evaluate the most recent information on the release of MPs and NPs in water sources intended for human consumption, specifically tap water and commercial bottled water. The potential effects on human health of dermal exposure, inhalation, and ingestion of these particles were examined. Emerging technologies used to remove MPs and/or NPs from drinking water sources and their advantages and limitations were also assessed. The main findings showed that the MPs with sizes > 10 μm were completely removed from drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). The smallest NP identified using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) had a diameter of 58 nm. Contamination with MPs/NPs can occur during the distribution of tap water to consumers, as well as when opening and closing screw caps of bottled water or when using recycled plastic or glass bottles for drinking water. In conclusion, this comprehensive study emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to detect MPs and NPs in drinking water, as well as raising the awareness of regulators, policymakers and the public about the impact of these pollutants, which pose a human health risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Nicoleta Darie-Niță
- Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ecaterina Matei
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra-Mihaela Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei-Constantin Berbecaru
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Yadav H, Khan MRH, Quadir M, Rusch KA, Mondal PP, Orr M, Xu EG, Iskander SM. Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food? Environ Sci Technol 2023. [PMID: 37220346 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Plastic cutting boards are a potentially significant source of microplastics in human food. Thus, we investigated the impact of chopping styles and board materials on microplastics released during chopping. As chopping progressed, the effects of chopping styles on microplastic release became evident. The mass and number of microplastics released from polypropylene chopping boards were greater than polyethylene by 5-60% and 14-71%, respectively. Chopping on polyethylene boards was associated with a greater release of microplastics with a vegetable (i.e., carrots) than chopping without carrots. Microplastics showed a broad, bottom-skewed normal distribution, dominated by <100 μm spherical-shaped microplastics. Based on our assumptions, we estimated a per-person annual exposure of 7.4-50.7 g of microplastics from a polyethylene chopping board and 49.5 g of microplastics from a polypropylene chopping board. We further estimated that a person could be exposed to 14.5 to 71.9 million polyethylene microplastics annually, compared to 79.4 million polypropylene microplastics from chopping boards. The preliminary toxicity study of the polyethylene microplastics did not show adverse effects on the viability of mouse fibroblast cells for 72 h. This study identifies plastic chopping boards as a substantial source of microplastics in human food, which requires careful attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Himani Yadav
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, United States
| | - Md Rakib Hasan Khan
- Biomedical Engineering Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - Mohiuddin Quadir
- Biomedical Engineering Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
- Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
- Materials and Nanotechnology Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - Kelly A Rusch
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, United States
| | | | - Megan Orr
- Department of Statistics, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| | - Elvis Genbo Xu
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense 5230, Denmark
| | - Syeed Md Iskander
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Dakota State University, 1410 14th Ave N, CIE 201, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, United States
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, United States
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Liu Y, Lin Y, Xie J, Li P, Zhou Y, Wang P, Wu Y. A Method to Replace NaCl as a Flotation Solution for Extracting MPs in Soil: A Case Study of the Jiaxing Agricultural Soil from China. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2023; 110:96. [PMID: 37188746 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-023-03726-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have become an important global issue in recent years. However, MPs in the soil have received far less attention than water. Effective and nondestructive extraction of MPs is important for studying MPs in agricultural soils. This study uses different floatation solutions as experiments and uses MgCl2 as the floatation solution of the density extraction method. Five types of standard MPs (PE, PP, PS, PVC, and PET) are used as the objects of this experiment. The recovery of the two particle sizes was between 90.82% and 109.69%. The extracted standard MPs were then subjected to IR and Raman spectroscopic analysis, and the results showed that Raman spectroscopy was more suitable for the identification of the extracted MPs. Finally, this method collected and verified a vast number of soil samples and further analyzed the abundance and characteristics of the collected MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yimiao Lin
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Jiafei Xie
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Penghao Li
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
- Environmental Microplastic Pollution Research Center, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Pingya Wang
- Zhoushan Institute for Food and Drug Control, Zhoushan, 316012, China
| | - Yichun Wu
- Zhoushan Institute for Food and Drug Control, Zhoushan, 316012, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Taghipour H, Ghayebzadeh M, Ganji F, Mousavi S, Azizi N. Tracking microplastics contamination in drinking water in Zahedan, Iran: From source to consumption taps. Sci Total Environ 2023; 872:162121. [PMID: 36773917 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) that pollute drinking water are inherently toxic, act as an adsorbent of hazardous pollutants, and threaten human health. So, the fate of microplastics in drinking water from the source to consumption taps (CTs) was assessed in spring and winter in Zahedan city in Iran. Sampling was performed from 4 reservoirs (raw water), before and after two water treatment plants (WTPs), and 10 CTs. The reservoirs were sampled using a plankton net (pore size = 100 μm), and the remaining samples were taken using a sampling device (containing a stainless steel membrane as a filter with pore size = 5 μm). The combination of density separation techniques, digestion, observation, Micro-Raman and FTIR, and SEM analysis was performed to recognize MPs. The average number of MPs in raw water varied between 15.4 and 44.7 MP/m3 (winter) and 22-51.8 MP/m3 (spring). The results before and after the treatment plant showed that about 64 % and 75 % of particles were eliminated in WTP1 and WTP2, respectively. The average number of MPs in CTs was more than treatment water (CTa = 85-390 MP/m3 and CTb = 75-400 MP/m3), which is a probable confirmation of secondary contamination (abrasion from pipes, installations, and sealing materials). The dominant type of polymer detected in raw water, treated water, and consumption taps were PS. The estimated daily intake for children and adults was about 0.16-15 MP/kg/bw/year and 0.07-5.7 MP/kg/bw/year, respectively. The surface morphology of MPs showed that the particles were affected by continuous weathering, mechanical breakage, and oxidation. MPs threaten the environment and human health due to the adsorption and transport of hazardous pollution and their intrinsic toxicity, so a solution must be thought of to prevent the pollution of drinking water by MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Taghipour
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Public Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Ghayebzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Ganji
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Saeid Mousavi
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nahid Azizi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Aslam S, Khurram A, Hussain R, Qadir A, Ahmad SR. Sources, distribution, and incipient threats of polymeric microplastic released from food storage plastic materials. Environ Monit Assess 2023; 195:638. [PMID: 37138178 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11242-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to find out the source, distribution, quantity, and incipient threats of the microplastics (MPs) released by food-packing plastic materials, plastic bags, bottles, and containers on human health, biodiversity, water bodies, and atmosphere. For this purpose, 152 articles about MPs (0.1 to 5000 µm) and nanoplastics (NP) 1 to 100 nm) were reviewed and interpreted their results in the present articles about microplastics. The highest plastic waste is generated by China (⁓ 59 Mt), the USA (⁓ 38 Mt), Brazil (⁓ 12 Mt), Germany (⁓ 15 Mt), and Pakistan (⁓ 6 Mt). The count of MPs (MPs/kg) in Chinese salt was 718, UK 136, Iran 48, and USA 32, while MPs in bivalves, i.e., in Chinese bivalves was 2.93, UK 2.9, Iran 2.2, and Italy 7.2 in MPs/kg, respectively. The MPs count in Chinese fish was 7.3, Italy's 23, the USA's 13, and UK's 1.25 in MPs/kg, respectively. The MP concentrations in the water bodies, i.e., USA, were 15.2, Italy 7, and UK 4.4 in mg/L, respectively. It was critically reviewed that MPs can enter the human body causing various disorders (neurotoxic, biotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic disorders) because of the presence of various polymers. The present study concluded that MPs were released from processed and stored food containers, either through physical, biological, or chemical means, which harshly affect the surrounding environment and human health. The study recommended that alternatives to plastic containers are glass and bioplastic containers, papers, cotton bags, wooden boxes, and tree leaves need to use to avoid direct consumption of MPs from food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarfa Aslam
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Ayesha Khurram
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Rahib Hussain
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
- Institute of Geographic Sciences &, Natural Resources Research, CAS, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Abdul Qadir
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Sajid Rashid Ahmad
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
He Y, Zhang Y, Zhou W, Freitas R, Zhang Y, Zhang Y. Combined exposure of polystyrene microplastics and carbamazepine induced transgenerational effects on the reproduction of Daphnia magna. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:67596-67607. [PMID: 37115439 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene microplastics (PS MPs) and carbamazepine (CBZ) are frequently detected in freshwater ecosystems. However, the transgenerational effects of PS MPs and CBZ on the reproduction of aquatic organisms and the corresponding mechanisms are still unclear. In the present study, Daphnia magna was used to evaluate the reproductive toxicity in two consecutive generations (F0, F1). The molting and reproduction parameters, the expression of reproduction, and the toxic metabolism genes were examined after 21-day exposure. A significantly enhanced toxicity was observed in the presence of 5 μm PS MPs and CBZ. Chronic exposure results showed that the 5 μm PS MPs alone, CBZ alone, and their mixtures exerted significant reproductive toxicity of D. magna. The results of RT-qPCR showed transcripts of genes related to reproduction (cyp314, ecr-b, cut, vtg1, vtg2, dmrt93b) and toxic metabolism (cyp4, gst) were altered in both the F0 and F1. In addition, for the F0, gene transcriptional changes of reproduction were not fully translated into physiological performance, probably due to the compensatory responses caused by the low dose of PS MPs alone, CBZ alone, and their mixtures. Whereas for the F1, the trade-off between reproduction and toxic metabolism at gene levels was observed, which translated into a significant reduction in the total neonate number of F1. These findings suggest that long-term exposure to MPs and CBZ can cause serious reproduction damage to aquatic animals, which needs to be given sufficient attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yide He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqun Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhou
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Yunhai Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lee Y, Cho S, Park K, Kim T, Kim J, Ryu DY, Hong J. Potential lifetime effects caused by cellular uptake of nanoplastics: A review. Environ Pollut 2023; 329:121668. [PMID: 37087090 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have been used for about 100 years, and daily-use products composed of plastics are now prevalent. As a result, humans are very easily exposed to the plastic particles generated from the daily-use plastics. However, studies on cellular uptake of nanoplastics in "human cells" have only recently begun to attract attention. In previous studies, definitions of nanoplastics and microplastics were vague, but recently, they have been considered to be different and are being studied separately. However, nanoplastics, unlike plastic particles of other sizes such as macro- and microplastics, can be absorbed by human cells, and thus can cause various risks such as cytotoxicity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and even diseases such as cancer82, 83. and diabetes (Fan et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2023). Thus, in this review, we defined microplastics and nanoplastics to be different and described the potential risks of nanoplastics to human caused by cellular uptake according to their diverse factors. In addition, during and following plastic product usage a substantial number of fragments of different sizes can be generated, including nanoplastics. Fragmentation of microplastics into nanoplastics may also occur during ingestion and inhalation, which can potentially cause long-term hazards to human health. However, there are still few in vivo studies conducted on the health effect of nanoplastics ingestion and inhalation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoojin Lee
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seongeun Cho
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungtae Park
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Taihyun Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyu Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Du-Yeol Ryu
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinkee Hong
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Meegoda JN, Hettiarachchi MC. A Path to a Reduction in Micro and Nanoplastics Pollution. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20085555. [PMID: 37107837 PMCID: PMC10139116 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) are plastic particles less than 5 mm in size. There are two categories of MP: primary and secondary. Primary or microscopic-sized MP are intentionally produced material. Fragmentation of large plastic debris through physical, chemical, and oxidative processes creates secondary MP, the most abundant type in the environment. Microplastic pollution has become a global environmental problem due to their abundance, poor biodegradability, toxicological properties, and negative impact on aquatic and terrestrial organisms including humans. Plastic debris enters the aquatic environment via direct dumping or uncontrolled land-based sources. While plastic debris slowly degrades into MP, wastewater and stormwater outlets discharge a large amount of MP directly into water bodies. Additionally, stormwater carries MP from sources such as tire wear, artificial turf, fertilizers, and land-applied biosolids. To protect the environment and human health, the entry of MP into the environment must be reduced or eliminated. Source control is one of the best methods available. The existing and growing abundance of MP in the environment requires the use of multiple strategies to combat pollution. These strategies include reducing the usage, public outreach to eliminate littering, reevaluation and use of new wastewater treatment and sludge disposal methods, regulations on macro and MP sources, and a wide implementation of appropriate stormwater management practices such as filtration, bioretention, and wetlands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jay N. Meegoda
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-973-596-2464
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wu P, Wu X, Huang Q, Yu Q, Jin H, Zhu M. Mass spectrometry-based multimodal approaches for the identification and quantification analysis of microplastics in food matrix. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1163823. [PMID: 37090781 PMCID: PMC10118012 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1163823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundMicroplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have become emerging contaminants worldwide in food matrices. However, analytical approaches for their determination have yet to be standardized. Therefore, a systematic study is urgently needed to highlight the merits of mass spectrometry (MS) based methods for these applications.PurposeThe aim of the study is to review the current status of MS-based multimodal analysis for the determination of MPs in food matrices.MethodsWeb of Science and Google Scholar databases were searched and screened until Jan. 2023. Inclusion criteria: “publication years” was set to the last decades, “English” was selected as the “language,” and “research area” was set to environmental chemistry, food analysis and polymer science. The keywords were “microplastics,” “nanoplastics,” “determination,” “identification/quantification,” and “mass spectrometry.”ResultsTraditional spectrometry techniques offer good abilities to conduct the multimodal analysis of MPs in terms of color, shape and other morphologies. However, such technologies have some limitations, in particular the relatively high limits of detection. In contrast, MS-based methods supply excellent supplements. In MS-based methods, gas chromatographic-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and LC-MS/MS were selected as representative methods for determining MPs in the food matrices, while specialized MS methods (i.e., MALDI-ToF MS and ToF-SIMS) were considered to offer great potential in multimodal analysis of MPs especially when interfaced with the imaging systems.SignificanceThis study will contribute to gaining a deeper insight into the assessment of the exposure levels of MPs in human body, and may help build a bridge between the monitoring studies and the toxicology field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Wu
- Department of Basic Research, Nanjing University of Finance and Economics Hongshan College, Nanjing, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Wu
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Huang
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qinwei Yu
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hangbiao Jin
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Minghai Zhu
- Department of Basic Research, Nanjing University of Finance and Economics Hongshan College, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Minghai Zhu,
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhou W, Shi W, Du X, Han Y, Tang Y, Ri S, Ju K, Kim T, Huang L, Zhang W, Yu Y, Tian D, Yu Y, Chen L, Wu Z, Liu G. Assessment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Symptoms and Gut-Liver Axis Status in Zebrafish after Exposure to Polystyrene Microplastics and Oxytetracycline, Alone and in Combination. Environ Health Perspect 2023; 131:47006. [PMID: 37027337 PMCID: PMC10081693 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental pollution may give rise to the incidence and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common cause for chronic severe liver lesions. Although knowledge of NAFLD pathogenesis is particularly important for the development of effective prevention, the relationship between NAFLD occurrence and exposure to emerging pollutants, such as microplastics (MPs) and antibiotic residues, awaits assessment. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of MPs and antibiotic residues related to NAFLD occurrence using the zebrafish model species. METHODS Taking common polystyrene MPs and oxytetracycline (OTC) as representatives, typical NAFLD symptoms, including lipid accumulation, liver inflammation, and hepatic oxidative stress, were screened after 28-d exposure to environmentally realistic concentrations of MPs (0.69mg/L) and antibiotic residue (3.00μg/L). The impacts of MPs and OTC on gut health, the gut-liver axis, and hepatic lipid metabolism were also investigated to reveal potential affecting mechanisms underpinning the NAFLD symptoms observed. RESULTS Compared with the control fish, zebrafish exposed to MPs and OTC exhibited significantly higher levels of lipid accumulation, triglycerides, and cholesterol contents, as well as inflammation, in conjunction with oxidative stress in their livers. In addition, a markedly smaller proportion of Proteobacteria and higher ratios of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes were detected by microbiome analysis of gut contents in treated samples. After the exposures, the zebrafish also experienced intestinal oxidative injury and yielded significantly fewer numbers of goblet cells. Markedly higher levels of the intestinal bacteria-sourced endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were also detected in serum. Animals treated with MPs and OTC exhibited higher expression levels of LPS binding receptor (LBP) and downstream inflammation-related genes while also exhibiting lower activity and gene expression of lipase. Furthermore, MP-OTC coexposure generally exerted more severe effects compared with single MP or OTC exposure. DISCUSSION Our results suggested that exposure to MPs and OTC may disrupt the gut-liver axis and be associated with NAFLD occurrence. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11600.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weishang Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wei Shi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xueying Du
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yu Han
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yu Tang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Sanghyok Ri
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
- College of Life Science, Kim Hyong Jik University of Education, Pyongyang, DPR Korea
| | - Kwangjin Ju
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
- College of Aquaculture, Wonsan Fisheries University, Wonsan, DPR Korea
| | - Tongchol Kim
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
- College of Life Science, Kim Hyong Jik University of Education, Pyongyang, DPR Korea
| | - Lin Huang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Weixia Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yihan Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Tian
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yingying Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Liangbiao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Zhichao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Guangxu Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|