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Philippe A, Salaun M, Quemener M, Noël C, Tallec K, Lacroix C, Coton E, Burgaud G. Colonization and Biodegradation Potential of Fungal Communities on Immersed Polystyrene vs. Biodegradable Plastics: A Time Series Study in a Marina Environment. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:428. [PMID: 38921415 PMCID: PMC11204492 DOI: 10.3390/jof10060428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution of the ocean is a major environmental threat. In this context, a better understanding of the microorganisms able to colonize and potentially degrade these pollutants is of interest. This study explores the colonization and biodegradation potential of fungal communities on foamed polystyrene and alternatives biodegradable plastics immersed in a marina environment over time, using the Brest marina (France) as a model site. The methodology involved a combination of high-throughput 18S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to investigate fungal taxa associated with plastics compared to the surrounding seawater, and a culture-dependent approach to isolate environmentally relevant fungi to further assess their capabilities to utilize polymers as carbon sources. Metabarcoding results highlighted the significant diversity of fungal communities associated with both foamed polystyrene and biodegradable plastics, revealing a dynamic colonization process influenced by the type of polymer and immersion time. Notably, the research suggests a potential for certain fungal species to utilize polymers as a carbon source, emphasizing the need for further exploration of fungal biodegradation potential and mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Philippe
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité et Écologie Microbienne, F-29280 Plouzané, France; (A.P.); (M.S.); (M.Q.); (E.C.)
| | - Marie Salaun
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité et Écologie Microbienne, F-29280 Plouzané, France; (A.P.); (M.S.); (M.Q.); (E.C.)
| | - Maxence Quemener
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité et Écologie Microbienne, F-29280 Plouzané, France; (A.P.); (M.S.); (M.Q.); (E.C.)
| | - Cyril Noël
- Ifremer, IRSI, SeBiMER Service de Bioinformatique de l’Ifremer, F-29280 Plouzané, France;
| | - Kévin Tallec
- CEDRE Centre de Documentation, de Recherche et d’Expérimentations sur les Pollutions Accidentelles des Eaux, 715 Rue Alain Colas, CS 41836, CEDEX 2, 29218 Brest, France; (K.T.); (C.L.)
| | - Camille Lacroix
- CEDRE Centre de Documentation, de Recherche et d’Expérimentations sur les Pollutions Accidentelles des Eaux, 715 Rue Alain Colas, CS 41836, CEDEX 2, 29218 Brest, France; (K.T.); (C.L.)
| | - Emmanuel Coton
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité et Écologie Microbienne, F-29280 Plouzané, France; (A.P.); (M.S.); (M.Q.); (E.C.)
| | - Gaëtan Burgaud
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité et Écologie Microbienne, F-29280 Plouzané, France; (A.P.); (M.S.); (M.Q.); (E.C.)
- Institut Universitaire de France, France
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2
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Boctor J, Pandey G, Xu W, Murphy DV, Hoyle FC. Nature's Plastic Predators: A Comprehensive and Bibliometric Review of Plastivore Insects. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1671. [PMID: 38932021 PMCID: PMC11207432 DOI: 10.3390/polym16121671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Unprecedented plastic production has resulted in over six billion tons of harmful waste. Certain insect taxa emerge as potential agents of plastic biodegradation. Through a comprehensive manual and bibliometric literature analysis, this review analyses and consolidates the growing literature related to insect-mediated plastic breakdown. Over 23 insect species, representing Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and 4 other orders, have been identified for their capacity to consume plastic polymers. Natural and synthetic polymers exhibit high-level similarities in molecular structure and properties. Thus, in conjunction with comparative genomics studies, we link plastic-degrading enzymatic capabilities observed in certain insects to the exaptation of endogenous enzymes originally evolved for digesting lignin, cellulose, beeswax, keratin and chitin from their native dietary substrates. Further clarification is necessary to distinguish mineralisation from physicochemical fragmentation and to differentiate microbiome-mediated degradation from direct enzymatic reactions by insects. A bibliometric analysis of the exponentially growing body of literature showed that leading research is emerging from China and the USA. Analogies between natural and synthetic polymer's degradation pathways will inform engineering robust enzymes for practical plastic bioremediation applications. By aggregating, analysing, and interpreting published insights, this review consolidates our mechanistic understanding of insects as a potential natural solution to the escalating plastic waste crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Boctor
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
| | - Gunjan Pandey
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Environment, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia;
| | - Wei Xu
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
| | - Daniel V. Murphy
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
- SoilsWest, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Frances C. Hoyle
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
- SoilsWest, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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3
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Ceccanti C, Davini A, Lo Piccolo E, Lauria G, Rossi V, Ruffini Castiglione M, Spanò C, Bottega S, Guidi L, Landi M. Polyethylene microplastics alter root functionality and affect strawberry plant physiology and fruit quality traits. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134164. [PMID: 38583200 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Strawberry, a globally popular crop whose fruit are known for their taste and health benefits, were used to evaluate the effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) on plant physiology and fruit quality. Plants were grown in 2-L pots with natural soil mixed with PE-MPs at two concentrations (0.2% and 0.02%; w/w) and sizes (⌀ 35 and 125 µm). Plant physiological responses, root histochemical and anatomical analyses as well as fruit biometric and quality features were conducted. Plants subjected to ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% PE-MPs exhibited the most severe effects in terms of CO2 assimilation due to stomatal limitations, along with the highest level of oxidative stress in roots. Though no differences were observed in plant biomass, the impact on fruit quality traits was severe in ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% MPs treatment resulting in a drop in fruit weight (-42%), soluble solid (-10%) and anthocyanin contents (-25%). The smallest sized PE-MPs, adsorbed on the root surface, impaired plant water status by damaging the radical apparatus, which finally resulted in alteration of plant physiology and fruit quality. Further research is required to determine if these alterations also occur with other MPs and to understand more deeply the MPs influence on fruit physio-chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ceccanti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - A Davini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - E Lo Piccolo
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, viale delle Idee 30, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze, Italy.
| | - G Lauria
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - V Rossi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Ruffini Castiglione
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Spanò
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Bottega
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - L Guidi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Landi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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De Felice B, Gazzotti S, Roncoli M, Conterosito E, Gianotti V, Ortenzi MA, Parolini M. Exposure to Microplastics Made of Plasmix-Based Materials at Low Amounts Did Not Induce Adverse Effects on the Earthworm Eisenia foetida. TOXICS 2024; 12:300. [PMID: 38668523 PMCID: PMC11054649 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The implementation of recycling techniques represents a potential solution to the plastic pollution issue. To date, only a limited number of plastic polymers can be efficiently recycled. In the Italian plastic waste stream, the residual, non-homogeneous fraction is called 'Plasmix' and is intended for low-value uses. However, Plasmix can be used to create new materials through mechanical recycling, which need to be tested for their eco-safety. This study aimed to investigate the potential toxicity of two amounts (0.1% and 1% MPs in soil weight) of microplastics (MPs) made of naïve and additivated Plasmix-based materials (Px and APx, respectively) on the earthworm Eisenia foetida. Changes in oxidative status and oxidative damage, survival, gross growth rate and reproductive output were considered as endpoints. Although earthworms ingested both MP types, earthworms did not suffer an oxidative stress condition or growth and reproductive impairments. The results suggested that exposure to low amounts of both MPs can be considered as safe for earthworms. However, further studies testing a higher amount or longer exposure time on different model species are necessary to complete the environmental risk assessment of these new materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice De Felice
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, I-20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Stefano Gazzotti
- Department of Chemistry, University of Milan, Via Golgi 19, I-20133 Milan, Italy; (S.G.); (M.A.O.)
| | - Maddalena Roncoli
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, I-13100 Vercelli, Italy; (M.R.); (E.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Eleonora Conterosito
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, I-13100 Vercelli, Italy; (M.R.); (E.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Valentina Gianotti
- Department of Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via T. Michel 11, I-13100 Vercelli, Italy; (M.R.); (E.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Marco Aldo Ortenzi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Milan, Via Golgi 19, I-20133 Milan, Italy; (S.G.); (M.A.O.)
| | - Marco Parolini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, I-20133 Milan, Italy;
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5
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Getya D, Gitsov I. Synthesis and Applications of Hybrid Polymer Networks Based on Renewable Natural Macromolecules. Molecules 2023; 28:6030. [PMID: 37630282 PMCID: PMC10458063 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Macromolecules obtained from renewable natural sources are gaining increasing attention as components for a vast variety of sustainable polymer-based materials. Natural raw materials can facilitate continuous-flow production due to their year-round availability and short replenishment period. They also open new opportunities for chemists and biologists to design and create "bioreplacement" and "bioadvantaged" polymers, where complex structures produced by nature are being modified, upgraded, and utilized to create novel materials. Bio-based macromonomers are expected not only to compete with but to replace some petroleum-based analogs, as well. The development of novel sustainable materials is an ongoing and very dynamic process. There are multiple strategies for transforming natural macromolecules into sophisticated value-added products. Some methods include chemical modification of macromolecules, while others include blending several components into one new system. One of the most promising approaches for incorporating renewable macromolecules into new products is the synthesis of hybrid networks based on one or more natural components. Each one has unique characteristics, so its incorporation into a network brings new sustainable materials with properties that can be tuned according to their end-use. This article reviews the current state-of-the-art and future potential of renewable natural macromolecules as sustainable building blocks for the synthesis and use of hybrid polymer networks. The most recent advancements and applications that involve polymers, such as cellulose, chitin, alginic acid, gellan gum, lignin, and their derivatives, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariya Getya
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York—ESF, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA;
- The Michael M. Szwarc Polymer Research Institute, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Ivan Gitsov
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York—ESF, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA;
- The Michael M. Szwarc Polymer Research Institute, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
- The BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA
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Liu X, Yang J, Li Z. Transcriptomic analysis of oxidative stress mechanisms induced by acute nanoplastic exposure in Sepia esculenta larvae. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1250513. [PMID: 37614751 PMCID: PMC10442824 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1250513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs), as a new type of pollutant with a size small than 1 μm, are ubiquitous and harmful to organisms. There has been an increasing amount of research concerning the effects of NPs on organisms over recent years, especially on aquatic animals. However, there is a limited study on the impact of NPs on mollusk cephalopods. In this research, Sepia esculenta, belonging to Cephalopoda, Coleoidea, Sepioidea, was selected to explore the effects caused by NPs exposure. The S. esculenta larvae were exposed to polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) with diameter 50 nm (100 mg/L) for 4 h. The detection of oxidative stress biomarkers displayed an obvious increase in SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity and MDA (malondialdehyde) level. Then, RNA-Seq was performed to explore the oxidative stress response at mRNA level. The transcriptome analysis demonstrated that the expression of 2,570 genes was affected by PS-NPs. Besides, the signaling pathways of ribosome, ribosome biogenesis in eukaryotes, proteasome, and MAPK were enriched. This study not only provides novel references for understanding the mechanisms of oxidative stress response induced by NPs, but also reminds us to follow with interest the influence of acute exposure to NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiumei Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Yantai University, Yantai, China
| | - Jianmin Yang
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai, China
| | - Zan Li
- School of Agriculture, Ludong University, Yantai, China
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7
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Moreno-Gómez-Toledano R, Delgado-Marín M, Sánchez-Esteban S, Cook-Calvete A, Ortiz S, Bosch RJ, Saura M. Combination of Bisphenol A and Its Emergent Substitute Molecules Is Related to Heart Disease and Exerts a Differential Effect on Vascular Endothelium. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12188. [PMID: 37569562 PMCID: PMC10419022 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic production, disposal, and recycling systems represent one of the higher challenges for the planet's health. Its direct consequence is the release of endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol A (BPA), and its emerging substitute molecules, bisphenol F and S (BPF and BPS), into the environment. Consequently, bisphenols are usually present in human biological fluids. Since BPA, BPS, and BPF have structural analogies and similar hormonal activity, their combined study is urgently needed. The present manuscript studied the effect of the mixture of bisphenols (BPmix) in one of the world's largest human cohorts (NHANES cohort). Descriptive and comparative statistics, binomial and multinomial logistic regression, weighted quantile sum regression, quantile g-computation, and Bayesian kernel machine regression analysis determined a positive association between BPmix and heart disease, including confounders age, gender, BMI, ethnicity, Poverty/Income Ratio, and serum cotinine. Endothelial dysfunction is a hallmark of cardiovascular disease; thus, the average ratio of bisphenols found in humans was used to conduct murine aortic endothelial cell studies. The first results showed that BPmix had a higher effect on cell viability than BPA, enhancing its deleterious biological action. However, the flow cytometry, Western blot, and immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that BPmix induces a differential effect on cell death. While BPA exposure induces necroptosis, its combination with the proportion determined in the NHANES cohort induces apoptosis. In conclusion, the evidence suggests the need to reassess research methodologies to study endocrine disruptors more realistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Moreno-Gómez-Toledano
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria—IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Delgado-Marín
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Sandra Sánchez-Esteban
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria—IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Cook-Calvete
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Sara Ortiz
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Ricardo J. Bosch
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Marta Saura
- Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Biological Systems/Physiology, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain; (M.D.-M.); (S.S.-E.); (A.C.-C.); (S.O.); (R.J.B.); (M.S.)
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria—IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
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Nantege D, Odong R, Auta HS, Keke UN, Ndatimana G, Assie AF, Arimoro FO. Microplastic pollution in riverine ecosystems: threats posed on macroinvertebrates. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27839-9. [PMID: 37248351 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27839-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pollutants of emerging concern that have been reported in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems as well as in food items. The increasing production and use of plastic materials have led to a rise in MP pollution in aquatic ecosystems. This review aimed at providing an overview of the abundance and distribution of MPs in riverine ecosystems and the potential effects posed on macroinvertebrates. Microplastics in riverine ecosystems are reported in all regions, with less research in Africa, South America, and Oceania. The abundance and distribution of MPs in riverine ecosystems are mainly affected by population density, economic activities, seasons, and hydraulic regimes. Ingestion of MPs has also been reported in riverine macroinvertebrates and has been incorporated in caddisflies cases. Further, bivalves and chironomids have been reported as potential indicators of MPs in aquatic ecosystems due to their ability to ingest MPs relative to environmental concentration. Fiber and fragments are the most common types reported. Meanwhile, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate (polyester), polyamide, and polyvinyl chloride are the most common polymers. These MPs are from materials/polymers commonly used for packaging, shopping/carrier bags, fabrics/textiles, and construction. Ingestion of MPs by macroinvertebrates can physically harm and inhibit growth, reproduction, feeding, and moulting, thus threatening their survival. In addition, MP ingestion can trigger enzymatic changes and cause oxidative stress in the organisms. There is a need to regulate the production and use of plastic materials, as well as disposal of the wastes to reduce MP pollution in riverine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Nantege
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria.
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Robinson Odong
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Helen Shnada Auta
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Unique Ndubuisi Keke
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Gilbert Ndatimana
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Attobla Fulbert Assie
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Francis Ofurum Arimoro
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
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Malli A, Shehayeb A, Yehya A. Occurrence and risks of microplastics in the ecosystems of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:64800-64826. [PMID: 37086319 PMCID: PMC10122206 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27029-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous nature of microplastics (MPs) in nature and the risks they pose on the environment and human health have led to an increased research interest in the topic. Despite being an area of high plastic production and consumption, studies on MPs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have been limited. However, the region witnessed a research surge in 2021 attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this review, a total of 97 studies were analyzed based on their environmental compartments (marine, freshwater, air, and terrestrial) and matrices (sediments, water columns, biota, soil, etc.). Then, the MP concentrations and polymer types were utilized to conduct a risk assessment to provide a critical analysis of the data. The highest MP concentrations recorded in the marine water column and sediments were in the Mediterranean Sea in Tunisia with 400 items/m3 and 7960 items/kg of sediments, respectively. The number of MPs in biota ranged between 0 and 7525 per individual across all the aquatic compartments. For the air compartment, a school classroom had 56,000 items/g of dust in Iran due to the confined space. Very high risks in the sediment samples (Eri > 1500) were recorded in the Caspian Sea and Arab/Persian Gulf due to their closed or semi-closed nature that promotes sedimentation. The risk factors obtained are sensitive to the reference concentration which calls for the development of more reliable risk assessment approaches. Finally, more studies are needed in understudied MENA environmental compartments such as groundwater, deserts, and estuaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Malli
- Baha and Walid Bassatne Department of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Energy, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA.
| | - Ameed Shehayeb
- Baha and Walid Bassatne Department of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Energy, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- CIRAIG, Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Alissar Yehya
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, MA, Cambridge, USA
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10
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Peydayesh M, Bagnani M, Soon WL, Mezzenga R. Turning Food Protein Waste into Sustainable Technologies. Chem Rev 2023; 123:2112-2154. [PMID: 35772093 PMCID: PMC9999431 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For each kilogram of food protein wasted, between 15 and 750 kg of CO2 end up in the atmosphere. With this alarming carbon footprint, food protein waste not only contributes to climate change but also significantly impacts other environmental boundaries, such as nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, global freshwater use, change in land composition, chemical pollution, and biodiversity loss. This contrasts sharply with both the high nutritional value of proteins, as well as their unique chemical and physical versatility, which enable their use in new materials and innovative technologies. In this review, we discuss how food protein waste can be efficiently valorized not only by reintroduction into the food chain supply but also as a template for the development of sustainable technologies by allowing it to exit the food-value chain, thus alleviating some of the most urgent global challenges. We showcase three technologies of immediate significance and environmental impact: biodegradable plastics, water purification, and renewable energy. We discuss, by carefully reviewing the current state of the art, how proteins extracted from food waste can be valorized into key players to facilitate these technologies. We furthermore support analysis of the extant literature by original life cycle assessment (LCA) examples run ad hoc on both plant and animal waste proteins in the context of the technologies considered, and against realistic benchmarks, to quantitatively demonstrate their efficacy and potential. We finally conclude the review with an outlook on how such a comprehensive management of food protein waste is anticipated to transform its carbon footprint from positive to negative and, more generally, have a favorable impact on several other important planetary boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Peydayesh
- ETH Zurich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Massimo Bagnani
- ETH Zurich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wei Long Soon
- ETH Zurich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Sustainable Materials (SusMat), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798 Singapore
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- ETH Zurich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Materials, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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11
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Minder ML, Colombo IG, Rountos KJ. Baseline assessment of microplastics in commercially important marine bivalves from New York, U.S.A. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114625. [PMID: 36736252 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination in bivalve mollusks has become a significant concern over the last few years. These ecologically and economically valuable species are popular seafood items for human consumption. As filter feeders, bivalves may ingest MPs in their bodies, possibly impacting their physiology and fitness. Additionally, a considerable amount of the seafood that humans consume comes from coastal areas where MP concentrations tend to be the highest. This research provides the first examination of MPs in eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) and hard clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) that were grown locally in coastal areas of New York, contributing to a baseline for the northeast and mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S. A total of 48 eastern oysters (n = 12 per site, at four sites) and hard clams (n = 24 per site, at two sites) were sampled in summer 2021. While MP fibers and fragments (i.e. polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, and polypropylene) were found in some oysters, other contaminants (e.g. indigo dye, phthalocyanine, dye 823, etc.) were found in both bivalve species. Particle composition was verified using Raman microspectroscopy. Although mean MP concentrations were low in eastern oysters (i.e. 0.008 MPs g-1 of soft tissue wet weight; 0.125 MPs ind-1) and not found in hard clams, more research is needed to assess the magnitude of contamination in these edible bivalves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Minder
- Department of Biology, St. Joseph's University, New York, Patchogue, NY 11776, United States of America
| | - Isabella G Colombo
- Department of Biology, St. Joseph's University, New York, Patchogue, NY 11776, United States of America
| | - Konstantine J Rountos
- Department of Biology, St. Joseph's University, New York, Patchogue, NY 11776, United States of America.
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12
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Gaur VK, Sirohi R, Bhat MI, Gautam K, Sharma P, Srivastava JK, Pandey A. A review on the effect of micro- and nano-plastics pollution on the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:136877. [PMID: 36257395 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The recent upsurge in the studies on micro/nano plastics and antimicrobial resistance genes has proven their deleterious effects on the environmental and human health. Till-date, there is a scarcity of studies on the interactions of these two factors and their combined influence. The interaction of microplastics has led to the formation of new plastics namely plastiglomerates, pyroplastics. and anthropoquinas. It has long been ignored that the occurrence of microplastics has become a breeding ground for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance genes. Evidently microplastics are also associated with the occurrence of other pollutants such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons and pesticides. The increased use of antibiotics (after Covid breakout) has further elevated the detrimental effects on human health. Therefore, this study highlights the relation of microplastics with antibiotic resistance generation. The factors such as uncontrolled use of antibiotics and negligent plastic consumption has been evaluated. Furthermore, the future research prospective was provided that can be helpful in correctly identifying the seriousness of the environmental occurrence of these pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar Gaur
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India; Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, India; School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute for Science and Technology, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Ranjna Sirohi
- Department of Food Technology, School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mohd Ishfaq Bhat
- Department of Post-Harvest Process and Food Engineering, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, India
| | - Krishna Gautam
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India
| | - Poonam Sharma
- Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226 029, India; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, India; Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, 226 001, India.
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13
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Matlin SA, Cornell SE, Krief A, Hopf H, Mehta G. Chemistry must respond to the crisis of transgression of planetary boundaries. Chem Sci 2022; 13:11710-11720. [PMID: 36348954 PMCID: PMC9627718 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc03603g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent assessments alarmingly indicate that many of the world's leading chemicals are transgressing one or more of the nine planetary boundaries, which define safe operating spaces within which humanity can continue to develop and thrive for generations to come. The unfolding crisis cannot be ignored and there is a once-in-a-century opportunity for chemistry - the science of transformation of matter - to make a critical difference to the future of people and planet. How can chemists contribute to meeting these challenges and restore stability and strengthen resilience to the planetary system that humanity needs for its survival? To respond to the wake-up call, three crucial steps are outlined: (1) urgently working to understand the nature of the looming threats, from a chemistry perspective; (2) harnessing the ingenuity and innovation that are central to the practice of chemistry to develop sustainable solutions; and (3) transforming chemistry itself, in education, research and industry, to re-position it as 'chemistry for sustainability' and lead the stewardship of the world's chemical resources. This will require conservation of material stocks in forms that remain available for use, through attention to circularity, as well as strengthening engagement in systems-based approaches to designing chemistry research and processes informed by convergent working with many other disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Matlin
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London London SW7 2AZ UK
- International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development 61 rue de Bruxelles B-5000 Namur Belgium
| | - Sarah E Cornell
- International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development 61 rue de Bruxelles B-5000 Namur Belgium
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Faculty of Science, Stockholm University Stockholm Sweden
| | - Alain Krief
- International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development 61 rue de Bruxelles B-5000 Namur Belgium
- Chemistry Department, Namur University B-5000 Namur Belgium
| | - Henning Hopf
- International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development 61 rue de Bruxelles B-5000 Namur Belgium
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Technische Universität Braunschweig Braunschweig D-38106 Germany
| | - Goverdhan Mehta
- International Organization for Chemical Sciences in Development 61 rue de Bruxelles B-5000 Namur Belgium
- School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad Hyderabad 500046 India
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14
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Godoy V, Calero M, González-Olalla JM, Martín-Lara MA, Olea N, Ruiz-Gutierrez A, Villar-Argaiz M. The human connection: First evidence of microplastics in remote high mountain lakes of Sierra Nevada, Spain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 311:119922. [PMID: 35961567 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have become one of the most serious global threats to animal and human health. While their presence has been documented in all Earth water ecosystems, including remote mountain lakes, the observation that the abundance of microplastics is largely different across nearby lakes has rarely been examined. As part of a citizen science initiative, this study analyzed for the first time the abundance of microplastics in the surface of 35 glacial lakes of Sierra Nevada National Park in Southern Spain with the objective of determining the local factors that control their abundance. First, we described the shape, size, color and nature of microplastics. Second, we tested whether the number of microplastics differed between basins and analyzed environmental and morphometrical features of lakes affecting their abundance. We found that microplastics were common in most lakes, with a maximum abundance of 21.3 particles per liter that akin to some of the most microplastic polluted lakes worldwide. Fragments were the predominant shape (59.7%) followed by fibers (38.8%) and very scarce spheres (1.5%). Microplastics were observed for all size-fractions, but the abundance of particles <45 μm was higher, what advocates for the use of low pore-size filters to prevent underestimation of microplastics. While the mean abundance of microplastics did not differ among basins, their quantity was related to the presence of meadows surrounding the lakes. This result indicates that while atmospheric transport of microsplastics may equally reach all basins, differences in microplastics among nearby-lakes has an anthropic origin caused by mountaineers who find lakes with ample meadows much more attractive to visit relative to barren lakes. The staggering number in these remote lakes, headwaters of rivers that feed drinking reservoirs, is a major concern that warrants further investigation and the strict compliance with waste management laws to reduce the harmful impacts of microplastic contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Godoy
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Mónica Calero
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Juan M González-Olalla
- Department of Watershed Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, United States
| | - María A Martín-Lara
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Olea
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs, Granada, CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Adrián Ruiz-Gutierrez
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Manuel Villar-Argaiz
- Departamento de Ecología. Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
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15
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Melo-Agustín P, Kozak ER, de Jesús Perea-Flores M, Mendoza-Pérez JA. Identification of microplastics and associated contaminants using ultra high resolution microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 828:154434. [PMID: 35278555 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The present study establishes a new procedure to characterize micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) and identify contaminants adhered to the plastic particles in aquatic environments by applying ultra-high resolution microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Naturally fragmented microplastics (MPs) were collected from Manzanillo and Santiago Bays, Mexico and analyzed using: Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), μ-RAMAN, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Environmental Electron Scanning Microscopy (ESEM). The information obtained from each of these techniques was integrated to produce a comprehensive profile of each particle. Sample preparation was tested by applying three different rinses (unrinsed, distilled water and alcohol) to untreated MPs collected from Manzanillo Bay, finding that when large impurities are present an alcohol rinse makes it easier to examine the associated contaminants. Based on this emerging methodology, polyethylene and polypropylene MPs were identified with associated contaminants such as arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, and benzene. This study demonstrates the presence of pollutants that may be linked to MNPs in aquatic ecosystems and proposes an accurate relatively fast procedure for their analysis that does not require chemical extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Melo-Agustín
- Departamento de Ingeniería en Sistemas Ambientales, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Avenida Wilfrido Massieu, esquina Cerrada Miguel Stampa s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Eva R Kozak
- Departamento de Estudios para el Desarrollo Sustentable de Zonas Costeras, Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG), Gómez Farias 82, San Patricio Melaque, Jalisco 48980, Mexico
| | - María de Jesús Perea-Flores
- Centro de Nanociencias y Micro-Nanotecnologías (CNMN), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Luis Enrique Erro s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Jorge A Mendoza-Pérez
- Departamento de Ingeniería en Sistemas Ambientales, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Avenida Wilfrido Massieu, esquina Cerrada Miguel Stampa s/n, Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Colonia Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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16
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Barcoto MO, Rodrigues A. Lessons From Insect Fungiculture: From Microbial Ecology to Plastics Degradation. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:812143. [PMID: 35685924 PMCID: PMC9171207 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.812143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic activities have extensively transformed the biosphere by extracting and disposing of resources, crossing boundaries of planetary threat while causing a global crisis of waste overload. Despite fundamental differences regarding structure and recalcitrance, lignocellulose and plastic polymers share physical-chemical properties to some extent, that include carbon skeletons with similar chemical bonds, hydrophobic properties, amorphous and crystalline regions. Microbial strategies for metabolizing recalcitrant polymers have been selected and optimized through evolution, thus understanding natural processes for lignocellulose modification could aid the challenge of dealing with the recalcitrant human-made polymers spread worldwide. We propose to look for inspiration in the charismatic fungal-growing insects to understand multipartite degradation of plant polymers. Independently evolved in diverse insect lineages, fungiculture embraces passive or active fungal cultivation for food, protection, and structural purposes. We consider there is much to learn from these symbioses, in special from the community-level degradation of recalcitrant biomass and defensive metabolites. Microbial plant-degrading systems at the core of insect fungicultures could be promising candidates for degrading synthetic plastics. Here, we first compare the degradation of lignocellulose and plastic polymers, with emphasis in the overlapping microbial players and enzymatic activities between these processes. Second, we review the literature on diverse insect fungiculture systems, focusing on features that, while supporting insects' ecology and evolution, could also be applied in biotechnological processes. Third, taking lessons from these microbial communities, we suggest multidisciplinary strategies to identify microbial degraders, degrading enzymes and pathways, as well as microbial interactions and interdependencies. Spanning from multiomics to spectroscopy, microscopy, stable isotopes probing, enrichment microcosmos, and synthetic communities, these strategies would allow for a systemic understanding of the fungiculture ecology, driving to application possibilities. Detailing how the metabolic landscape is entangled to achieve ecological success could inspire sustainable efforts for mitigating the current environmental crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana O. Barcoto
- Center for the Study of Social Insects, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, Brazil
- Department of General and Applied Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, Brazil
| | - Andre Rodrigues
- Center for the Study of Social Insects, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, Brazil
- Department of General and Applied Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, Brazil
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17
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Song J, Li S, Han J. Performance of nitrogenous polybutylene succinate/polylactic acid materials and their degradation effects on physiological indicators of lettuce. REACT FUNCT POLYM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2022.105294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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18
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Bio-Based Materials for Packaging. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073611. [PMID: 35408966 PMCID: PMC8998251 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
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19
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An In Situ Experiment to Evaluate the Aging and Degradation Phenomena Induced by Marine Environment Conditions on Commercial Plastic Granules. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14061111. [PMID: 35335441 PMCID: PMC8949163 DOI: 10.3390/polym14061111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we present two novel experimental setups specifically designed to perform in situ long-term monitoring of the aging behaviour of commercial plastic granules (HDPE, PP, PLA and PBAT). The results of the first six months of a three year monitoring campaign are presented. The two experimental setups consist of: (i) special cages positioned close to the sea floor at a depth of about 10 m, and (ii) a box containing sand exposed to atmospheric agents to simulate the surface of a beach. Starting from March 2020, plastic granules were put into the cages and plunged in seawater and in a sandboxe. Chemical spectroscopic and thermal analyses (GPC, SEM, FTIR-ATR, DSC, TGA) were performed on the granules before and after exposure to natural elements for six months, in order to identify the physical-chemical modifications occurring in marine environmental conditions (both in seawater and in sandy coastal conditions). Changes in colour, surface morphology, chemical composition, thermal properties, molecular weight and polydispersity, showed the different influences of the environmental conditions. Photooxidative reaction pathways were prevalent in the sandbox. Abrasive phenomena acted specially in the sea environment. PLA and PBAT did not show significant degradation after six months, making the possible reduction of marine pollution due to this process negligible.
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20
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Wright DE, De la Rosa MA. Entering the second decade: FEBS Open Bio in 2022. FEBS Open Bio 2022; 12:4-8. [PMID: 34927398 PMCID: PMC8727927 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
FEBS Open Bio continues to go from strength to strength, with 2021 perhaps marking its most exciting year. In this Editorial, the Editor-in-Chief Miguel A. De la Rosa looks back at all the new developments of 2021 and forecasts the outlook for 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel A. De la Rosa
- Institute for Chemical Research (IIQ)Scientific Research Centre Isla de la Cartuja (cicCartuja)Universidad de Sevilla‐CSICSevillaSpain
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21
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Pirillo V, Orlando M, Tessaro D, Pollegioni L, Molla G. An Efficient Protein Evolution Workflow for the Improvement of Bacterial PET Hydrolyzing Enzymes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010264. [PMID: 35008691 PMCID: PMC8745736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Enzymatic degradation is a promising green approach to bioremediation and recycling of the polymer poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). In the past few years, several PET-hydrolysing enzymes (PHEs) have been discovered, and new variants have been evolved by protein engineering. Here, we report on a straightforward workflow employing semi-rational protein engineering combined to a high-throughput screening of variant libraries for their activity on PET nanoparticles. Using this approach, starting from the double variant W159H/S238F of Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6 PETase, the W159H/F238A-ΔIsPET variant, possessing a higher hydrolytic activity on PET, was identified. This variant was stabilized by introducing two additional known substitutions (S121E and D186H) generating the TS-ΔIsPET variant. By using 0.1 mg mL−1 of TS-ΔIsPET, ~10.6 mM of degradation products were produced in 2 days from 9 mg mL−1 PET microparticles (~26% depolymerization yield). Indeed, TS-ΔIsPET allowed a massive degradation of PET nanoparticles (>80% depolymerization yield) in 1.5 h using only 20 μg of enzyme mL−1. The rationale underlying the effect on the catalytic parameters due to the F238A substitution was studied by enzymatic investigation and molecular dynamics/docking analysis. The present workflow is a well-suited protocol for the evolution of PHEs to help generate an efficient enzymatic toolbox for polyester degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pirillo
- “The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy; (V.P.); (M.O.)
| | - Marco Orlando
- “The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy; (V.P.); (M.O.)
| | - Davide Tessaro
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Materiali e Ingegneria Chimica “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, p.za L. da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Loredano Pollegioni
- “The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy; (V.P.); (M.O.)
- Correspondence: (L.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Gianluca Molla
- “The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy; (V.P.); (M.O.)
- Correspondence: (L.P.); (G.M.)
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22
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Wright DE, De la Rosa MA. Ten years of FEBS Open Bio. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 11:3176-3182. [PMID: 34786884 PMCID: PMC8634863 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This month, FEBS Open Bio celebrates its 10th birthday. To celebrate the journal's first decade, we present this special anniversary issue, comprised of editorials, reviews, and research articles especially commissioned for the occasion. In this introductory editorial, we invite the reader to join us as we reminisce over the journal's past, celebrate its present, and look forward to its future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel A. De la Rosa
- Institute for Chemical Research (IIQ)Scientific Research Centre Isla de la Cartuja (cicCartuja)Universidad de Sevilla‐CSICSpain
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23
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Multifunctional, Robust, and Porous PHBV-GO/MXene Composite Membranes with Good Hydrophilicity, Antibacterial Activity, and Platelet Adsorption Performance. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13213748. [PMID: 34771308 PMCID: PMC8588032 DOI: 10.3390/polym13213748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The limitations of hydrophilicity, strength, antibacterial activity adsorption performance of the biobased and biocompatible polymer materials, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), significantly restrict their wider applications especially in medical areas. In this paper, a novel composite membrane with high antibacterial activity and platelet adsorption performance was prepared based on graphene oxide (GO), MXene and 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV), which are medium-chain-length-copolymers of PHA. The GO/MXene nanosheets can uniformly inset on the surface of PHBV fibre and give the PHBV—GO/MXene composite membranes superior hydrophilicity due to the presence of hydroxyl groups and terminal oxygen on the surface of nanosheets, which further provides the functional site for the free radical polymerization of ester bonds between GO/MXene and PHBV. As a result, the tensile strength, platelet adsorption, and blood coagulation time of the PHBV—GO/MXene composite membranes were remarkably increased compared with those of the pure PHBV membranes. The antibacterial rate of the PHBV—GO/MXene composite membranes against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria can reach 97% due to the antibacterial nature of MXene. The improved strength, hydrophilicity, antibacterial activity and platelet adsorption performance suggest that PHBV—GO/MXene composite membranes might be ideal candidates for multifunctional materials for haemostatic applications.
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24
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Bonwick G, Birch CS. Innovation in bio‐based food contact materials: food safety and quality. Int J Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.15191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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