1
|
Majewska M, Kapusta M, Aksmann A. Diclofenac Interacts with Photosynthetic Apparatus: Isolated Spinach Chloroplasts and Thylakoids as a Model System. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:2189. [PMID: 39204625 PMCID: PMC11359304 DOI: 10.3390/plants13162189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Diclofenac, often detected in environmental samples, poses a potential hazard to the aquatic environment. The present study aimed to understand the effect of this drug on photosynthetic apparatus, which is a little-known aspect of its phytotoxicity. Chloroplasts and thylakoids isolated from spinach (Spinacia oleracea) were used for this study and treated with various concentrations of diclofenac (from 125 to 4000 μM). The parameters of chlorophyll a fluorescence (the OJIP test) as measurements for both the intact chloroplasts and the thylakoid membranes revealed that isolated thylakoids showed greater sensitivity to the drug than chloroplasts. The relatively high concentration of diclofenac that is required to inhibit chloroplast and thylakoid functions suggests a narcotic effect of that drug on photosynthetic membranes, rather than a specific interaction with a particular element of the electron transport chain. Using confocal microscopy, we confirmed the degradation of the chloroplast structure after DCF treatment, which has not been previously reported in the literature. In conclusion, it can be assumed that diclofenac's action originated from a non-specific interaction with photosynthetic membranes, leading to the disruption in the function of the electron transport chain. This, in turn, decreases the efficiency of photosynthesis, transforming part of the PSII reaction centers into heat sinks and enhancing non-photochemical energy dissipation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Majewska
- Department of Plant Experimental Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Kapusta
- Bioimaging Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Anna Aksmann
- Department of Plant Experimental Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kapuścińska D, Narajczyk M, Liakh I, Wielgomas B, Aksmann A. Nabumetone and flufenamic acid pose a serious risk to aquatic plants: A study with Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a model organism. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:140853. [PMID: 38052310 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The aquatic environment is constantly under threat due to the release of numerous pollutants. Among them, pharmaceuticals constitute a huge and diverse group. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are increasingly found in water bodies, but knowledge about their potential toxicity is still low. In particular, there is a lack of information about their influences on aquatic plants and algae. We estimated the susceptibility of the microalgae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to nabumetone (NBT) and flufenamic acid (FFA), focusing on photosynthesis. Due to the differences in the structures of these compounds, it was assumed that these drugs would have different toxicities to the tested green algae. The hypothesis was confirmed by determining the effective concentration values, the intensity of photosynthesis, the intensity of dark respiration, the contents of photosynthetic pigments, the fluorescence of chlorophyll a in vivo (OJIP test), and cell ultrastructure analysis. Assessment of the toxicity of the NSAIDs was extended by the calculation of an integrated biomarker response index (IBR), which is a valuable tool in ecotoxicological studies. The obtained results indicate an over six times higher toxicity of NBT compared to FFA. After analysis of the chlorophyll a fluorescence in vivo, it was found that NBT inhibited electron transport beyond the PS II. FFA, unlike NBT, lowered the intensity of photosynthesis, probably transforming some reaction centers into "silent centers", which dissipate energy as heat. The IBR estimated based on photosynthetic parameters suggests that the toxic effect of FFA results mainly from photosynthesis disruption, whereas NBT significantly affects other cellular processes. No significant alteration in the ultrastructure of treated cells could be seen, except for changes in starch grain number and autophagic vacuoles that appeared in FFA-treated cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work reporting the toxic effects of NBT and FFA on unicellular green algae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Kapuścińska
- Department of Plant Experimental Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Narajczyk
- Laboratory of Electron Microscopy, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Ivan Liakh
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Bartosz Wielgomas
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Al. Gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Anna Aksmann
- Department of Plant Experimental Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huynh NC, Nguyen TTT, Nguyen DTC, Tran TV. Occurrence, toxicity, impact and removal of selected non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 898:165317. [PMID: 37419350 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165317] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most frequently used pharmaceuticals for human therapy, pet therapeutics, and veterinary feeds, enabling them to enter into water sources such as wastewater, soil and sediment, and seawater. The control of NSAIDs has led to the advent of the novel materials for treatment techniques. Herein, we review the occurrence, impact and toxicity of NSAIDs against aquatic microorganisms, plants and humans. Typical NSAIDs, e.g., ibuprofen, ketoprofen, diclofenac, naproxen and aspirin were detected at high concentrations in wastewater up to 2,747,000 ng L-1. NSAIDs in water could cause genotoxicity, endocrine disruption, locomotive disorders, body deformations, organs damage, and photosynthetic corruption. Considering treatment methods, among adsorbents for removal of NSAIDs from water, metal-organic frameworks (10.7-638 mg g-1) and advanced porous carbons (7.4-400 mg g-1) were the most robust. Therefore, these carbon-based adsorbents showed promise in efficiency for the treatment of NSAIDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Chi Huynh
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam; Faculty of Science, Nong Lam University, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Faculty of Science, Nong Lam University, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Duyen Thi Cam Nguyen
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam
| | - Thuan Van Tran
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chahloul N, Khadhri A, Vannini A, Mendili M, Raies A, Loppi S. Selecting the species to be used in lichen transplant surveys of air pollution in Tunisia. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:570. [PMID: 37059862 PMCID: PMC10104911 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
This study was undertaken with the aim of selecting one or more lichen species that are the most suitable for transplant-based surveys of air pollution in Tunisia, in areas where the local native lichen vegetation is scanty or missing at all. To this purpose, four epiphytic (tree inhabiting) lichen species (Evernia prunastri, Flavoparmelia caperata, Parmotrema perlatum, Ramalina farinacea) were collected from the Babouch forests, a remote and unpolluted area of NW Tunisia, and analyzed for their content of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), namely Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Zn, by ICP-MS. Moreover, also the physiological status of the lichen samples was evaluated by measuring their chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency, and spectral reflectance. The results indicated a remarkable contribution of airborne soil and dust particles to the total PTE content, especially for the foliose species F. caperata and P. perlatum. The fruticose lichens E. prunastri and R. farinacea had a lower and similar content of PTEs, and hence were regarded as more suitable to be used in transplant studies, since are able to detect even minimal accumulation amounts. All lichen species were healthy, as emerged from the analysis of physiological parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Chahloul
- Laboratory of Active Microorganisms and Biomolecules (LMBA), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El-Manar-II, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ayda Khadhri
- Plant, Soil, Environment Interactions Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Tunis El-Manar II, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Andrea Vannini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Mohamed Mendili
- Plant, Soil, Environment Interactions Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Tunis El-Manar II, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Aly Raies
- Laboratory of Active Microorganisms and Biomolecules (LMBA), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University Tunis El-Manar-II, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Stefano Loppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Maldonado I, Moreno Terrazas EG, Vilca FZ. Application of duckweed (Lemna sp.) and water fern (Azolla sp.) in the removal of pharmaceutical residues in water: State of art focus on antibiotics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:156565. [PMID: 35690203 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, antibiotic residues in the environment have increased, affecting components of biological communities, from bacteria to plants and animals. Different methods have been used to remove these compounds, including phytoremediation with floating aquatic species such as duckweed and aquatic fern, with positive results. This study analyses information about the removal efficiency of drugs, with a focus on antibiotics, using Lemna and Azolla, which will allow a better understanding of phytoremediation processes from the perspective of plant physiology. The physiological processes of macrophytes in an environment with this type of pollutant and the phytotoxic effects on plants at high concentrations are also analysed. The metabolization of toxic compounds occurs in three phases: phase I begins with the absorption of antibiotics and the secretion of reactive oxygen species (ROS); in phase II, the effects of ROS are neutralized and minimized by conjugation with enzymes such as glutathione transferase or metabolites such as glutathione; and phase III culminates with the storage of the assimilated compounds in the vacuoles, apoplast and cell wall. In this way, plants contribute to the removal of toxic compounds. In summary, there is sufficient scientific evidence on the efficiency of the elimination of pharmaceutical compounds by these floating macrophytes at the laboratory scale, which indicates that their application under real conditions can have good results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Maldonado
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencia, Tecnología y Medio Ambiente, Escuela de Posgrado, Universidad Nacional del Altiplano de Puno, Av. Floral N° 1153, Puno, Peru.
| | - Edmundo G Moreno Terrazas
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Altiplano de Puno, Av. Floral N° 1153, Puno 21001, Peru
| | - Franz Zirena Vilca
- Laboratorio de Contaminantes Orgánicos y Ambiente del IINDEP de la Universidad Nacional de Moquegua, Perú, Urb Ciudad Jardín-Pacocha-Ilo, Peru; Instituto de Investigación para el Desarrollo Sostenible y Cambio Climático INDESC de la Universidad Nacional de Frontera, Perú, San Hilarión N° 101 - Sullana, Piura, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Palharini KMZ, Vitorino LC, Bessa LA, de Carvalho Vasconcelos Filho S, Silva FG. Parmotrema tinctorum as an indicator of edge effect and air quality in forested areas bordered by intensive agriculture. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:68997-69011. [PMID: 34286433 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15411-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pollutants inhibit thallus growth and development or alter the metabolism and associated anatomical and morphophysiological characteristics of lichens. Since agricultural matrices can act as sources of pollution by dispersing agrochemicals to vegetation fragments, this study tested the hypothesis that Parmotrema tinctorum can serve as the indicator of edge effect in such fragments. In other words, we assumed the impact of pollutant accumulation to be greater at the vegetation edges and explored the utility of this lichen as a bioindicator of pollutants dispersed from agricultural matrices. Differences in the anatomical layers of P. tinctorum thalli sampled from the edge and center of four vegetation fragments (CER, SSF, SSC, and ENP) were evaluated, and the effects of agricultural matrices on macro- and micronutrient levels, heavy metal levels, and photosynthetic pigment content were analyzed. Anatomical layers were thicker in P. tinctorum thalli from the edges of SSC and ENP, indicating the need for photobiont protection at these sites. Edge effect was observed on Al accumulation in the thallus, indicating dispersion of this metal from agricultural matrices and its greater impact in the edge populations. Edge effect was also evident on photosynthetic pigment content, macro- and micronutrient levels, and heavy metal concentration in the thallus, and the values reflected high ecological imbalance currently verified at the edge of ENP, an area of permanent protection. In areas within ENP, chlorophyll a/b ratio reflected stress factors acting on the thallus, indicating that even legally protected areas are not free from the impact of atmospheric pollutants. P. tinctorum may serve as an effective indicator of edge effects and may be used for biomonitoring pollutant dispersion from agricultural matrices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Maria Zanuzzi Palharini
- Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Instituto Federal Goiano - Rio Verde Campus, Sul Goiana Highway, Km 01, Rio Verde, GO, 75901-970, Brazil
| | - Luciana Cristina Vitorino
- Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Instituto Federal Goiano - Rio Verde Campus, Sul Goiana Highway, Km 01, Rio Verde, GO, 75901-970, Brazil.
| | - Layara Alexandre Bessa
- Laboratory of Plant Mineral Nutrition, Instituto Federal Goiano - Rio Verde Campus, Sul Goiana Highway, Km 01, Rio Verde, GO, 75901-970, Brazil
| | | | - Fabiano Guimarães Silva
- Laboratory of Plant Mineral Nutrition, Instituto Federal Goiano - Rio Verde Campus, Sul Goiana Highway, Km 01, Rio Verde, GO, 75901-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Response of Two Crop Plants, Zea mays L. and Solanum lycopersicum L., to Diclofenac and Naproxen. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168856. [PMID: 34445561 PMCID: PMC8396214 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Among numerous contaminants, the ubiquitous occurrence of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the environment and their plausible harmful impact on nontarget organisms have made them one of the most important areas of concern in recent years. Crop plants can also potentially be exposed to NSAIDs, since the concentration of these pharmaceuticals is constantly rising in the surface water and soil. Our goal was to evaluate the stress response of two crop plants, maize and tomato, to treatment with selected NSAIDs, naproxen and diclofenac. The focus of the research was on the growth response, photosynthetic efficiency, selected oxidative stress factors (such as the H2O2 level and the rate of lipid peroxidation) as well as the total phenolic content, which represents the non-enzymatic protectants against oxidative stress. The results indicate that susceptibility to the NSAIDs that were tested is dependent on the plant species. A higher sensitivity of tomato manifested in growth inhibition, a decrease in the content of the photosynthetic pigments and a reduction in the maximum quantum efficiency of PSII and the activity of PSII, which was estimated using the Fv/Fm and Fv/F0 ratios. Based on the growth results, it was also possible to reveal that diclofenac had a more toxic effect on tomato. In contrast to tomato, in maize, neither the content of the photosynthetic pigments nor growth appeared to be affected by DFC and NPX. However, both drugs significantly decreased in maize Fv and Fm, which are particularly sensitive to stress. A higher H2O2 concentration accompanied, in most cases, increasing lipid peroxidation, indicating that oxidative stress occurred in response to the selected NSAIDs in the plant species that were studied. The higher phenolic content of the plants after NSAIDs treatment may, in turn, indicate the activation of defense mechanisms in response to the oxidative stress that is triggered by these drugs.
Collapse
|
8
|
Cho M, Kim K. Diclofenac modified the root system architecture of Arabidopsis via interfering with the hormonal activities of auxin. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 413:125402. [PMID: 33626476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Diclofenac, a pharmaceutical and personal care product, is accumulating in various environmental matrices worldwide. Increased irrigation has facilitated an influx of environmental diclofenac into agricultural products, which potentially threatens non-target living organisms. In this study, we demonstrated that diclofenac modified the growth and root developmental processes of plants by disturbing the activity of auxin, a group of major phytohormones. Exogenous diclofenac treatment retarded growth and induced oxidative stress in young seedlings of Arabidopsis thaliana. In the developmental perspective, diclofenac altered the root system architecture, which was also similarly observed under exogenous IAA (a natural form of phytoalexins) treatment. The effects of diclofenac on the root development of A. thaliana were mediated through canonical auxin signaling pathways. However, when diclofenac and IAA were treated in combination, diclofenac suppressed the activity of IAA in root system architecture. At the molecular level, diclofenac significantly inhibited the activity of IAA upregulating the expression of early auxin-responsive marker genes. In conclusion, diclofenac modified the root development of A. thaliana via interfering with the activities of natural auxin. These results indicate that diclofenac could potentially act as an environmental contaminant disturbing the natural developmental processes of plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Cho
- SELS Center, Division of Biotechnology, College of Bioresources and Environmental Science, Chonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Kangmin Kim
- SELS Center, Division of Biotechnology, College of Bioresources and Environmental Science, Chonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Majewska M, Harshkova D, Pokora W, Baścik-Remisiewicz A, Tułodziecki S, Aksmann A. Does diclofenac act like a photosynthetic herbicide on green algae? Chlamydomonas reinhardtii synchronous culture-based study with atrazine as reference. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111630. [PMID: 33396150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac (DCF) is one of the commonly used and frequently detected drugs in water bodies, and several studies indicate its toxic effect on plants and algae. Studies performed with asynchronous Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultures indicated that DCF inhibit the growth of population of the algae. Here, a synchronous population of C. reinhardtii, in which all cells are in the same developmental phase, is used. Following changes in cells size, photosynthetic activity and gene expression, we could compare, at the level of single cell, DCF-mediated effects with the effects caused by atrazine, a triazine herbicide that inhibits photosynthesis and triggers oxidative stress. Application of DCF and atrazine at the beginning of the cell cycle allowed us to follow the changes occurring in the cells in the subsequent stages of their development. Synchronized Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultures (strain CC-1690, wild type) were exposed to diclofenac sodium salt (135 mg/L) or atrazine (77.6 µg/L). The cell suspension was sampled hourly (0-10 h) in the light period of the cell cycle to determine cell number and volume, photosynthetic pigment content, chlorophyll a fluorescence (OJIP test) in vivo, and selected gene expression (real-time qPCR), namely psbA, psaA, FSD1, MSD3 and APX1. The two toxicants differently influenced C. reinhardtii cells. Both substances decreased photosynthetic "vitality" (PI - performance index) of the cells, albeit for different reasons. While atrazine significantly disrupted the photosynthetic electron transport, resulting in excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and limited cell growth, DCF caused silencing of photosystem II (PSII) reaction centers, transforming them into "heat sinks", thus preventing significant ROS overproduction. Oxidative stress caused by atrazine was the probable reason for the rapid appearance of phytotoxic action soon after entering the cells, while the effects of DCF could only be seen several hours after treatment. A comparison of DCF-caused effects with the effects caused by atrazine led us to conclude that, although DCF cannot be regarded as typical photosynthetic herbicide, it exhibits an algicidal activity and can be potentially dangerous for aquatic plants and algae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Majewska
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Darya Harshkova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Wojciech Pokora
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Baścik-Remisiewicz
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Szymon Tułodziecki
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Aksmann
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bianchi E, Biancalani A, Berardi C, Antal A, Fibbi D, Coppi A, Lastrucci L, Bussotti N, Colzi I, Renai L, Scordo C, Del Bubba M, Gonnelli C. Improving the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants: Bio-removal of heavy-metals and pharmaceuticals by Azolla filiculoides and Lemna minuta. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 746:141219. [PMID: 32768785 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the removal of Fe(III), Cr(VI), Al(III), diclofenac, and levofloxacin from treated wastewater in the presence of the free-floating plants Azolla filiculoides and Lemna minuta, to understand whether these species can be effectively used in a surface flow constructed wetland as wastewater refining treatment. Fe and Al were selected owing to their wide use as coagulant agents in wastewater treatment plants for promoting clariflocculation processes, whilst Cr was chosen due to its common use in industry. Diclofenac and levofloxacin, two molecules belonging to the most widely used pharmaceutical classes in the world, were studied as representative anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, respectively. The study was performed at laboratory scale, exposing the plants separately to each individual contaminant at the concentrations of 5 mg L-1 for the metals (i.e. 2.5-5 times higher than the European limits concerning discharge into surface water), and 1 μg L-1 for the pharmaceuticals (concentration levels commonly found in wastewater). Depending on the plant species and contaminant tested, the range of different effects observed included low toxicity (i.e. Cr, Fe and diclofenac in L. minuta) and even a stimulatory effect on plant growth (i.e. for A. filiculoides with Al and for L. minuta with Al and levofloxacin). Moreover, both species proved to be very effective in the removal of Fe, Al and levofloxacin, with A. filiculoides showing the best performance (removal efficiency of 92%, 96%, and 60%, respectively), whereas for Cr and diclofenac the removal was always less than 10%. The higher removal capacity of A. filiculoides compared to L. minuta can be attributed to its superior tolerance of the contaminants, probably in turn related to the presence of nitrogen-fixing microorganism in its fronds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Bianchi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Biancalani
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Berardi
- GIDA S.p.A., via di Baciacavallo, 36, 59100 Prato, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Coppi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Lastrucci
- Natural History Museum, Botany, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira, 4, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Bussotti
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Colzi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Lapo Renai
- Department of Chemistry, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Scordo
- Department of Chemistry, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Massimo Del Bubba
- Department of Chemistry, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - Cristina Gonnelli
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fačkovcová Z, Vannini A, Monaci F, Grattacaso M, Paoli L, Loppi S. Effects of wood distillate (pyroligneous acid) on sensitive bioindicators (lichen and moss). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 204:111117. [PMID: 32798753 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Wood distillate (pyroligneous acid) can be successfully applied in agriculture to increase crop quality and productivity with a lower risk for the environment respect to synthetic chemical herbicides, pesticides or fertilizers. However, the effects of wood distillate on the environment and biota are still under investigation, depending on biological attributes of potentially influenced organisms. The potential toxicological effects of wood distillate on sensitive non-target organisms, lichens and mosses, are studied for the first time. The physiological parameters (chlorophyll a fluorescence emission FV/FM and PI(ABS), chlorophyll content, spectral reflectance, antioxidant power, and dehydrogenase activity) and eventual bioaccumulation of selected elements (As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) were investigated in the lichen Xanthoria parietina and the moss Hypnum cupressiforme after short-term treatments over a range of wood distillate solutions (1:300, 1:500, 1:700) to detect potential early stress responses. Overall, the lichen did not show changes after the treatments, while in the moss wood distillate caused only modest alterations in FV/FM and PI(ABS) and progressive increasing of antioxidant activity according to the dose supplied. The bioaccumulation of toxic elements was low and did not show any pattern of uptake with increasing concentrations of wood distillate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Fačkovcová
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy; Institute of Botany, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská Cesta 9, SK-84523, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Andrea Vannini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Monaci
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Martina Grattacaso
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Luca Paoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Ghini 13, I-56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Stefano Loppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fačkovcová Z, Vannini A, Monaci F, Grattacaso M, Paoli L, Loppi S. Uptake of Trace Elements in the Water Fern Azolla filiculoides after Short-Term Application of Chestnut Wood Distillate (Pyroligneous Acid). PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 9:plants9091179. [PMID: 32932822 PMCID: PMC7569869 DOI: 10.3390/plants9091179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Treatments of crops with additives to increase their productivity may pose environmental risks and induce negative effects also on non-target organisms. In this study, we investigated the potential effect of chestnut wood distillate (pyroligneous acid) used in agriculture, on the accumulation of trace elements in aquatic plants. As a model species, the common water fern Azolla filiculoides Lam. was selected, being often used also in phytoremediation processes. The content of selected elements of toxicological concern (As, Ba, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) was assessed in the fern after short-term treatments (1-3 days) over a range of wood distillate concentrations 1:300 (3.33 mL/L), 1:500 (2.00 mL/L), 1:700 (1.43 mL/L). A statistically significant accumulation of Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb, Zn (1:700) and Pb (1:300) was recorded after three days of incubation, despite the concentrations remained overall low. Using treatment vs. control ratios, a trend of increasing temporal uptake was detected for As, Ba, Fe, Mn, Pb (1:700); Mn, Pb (1:500), and only Pb at 1:300. The results suggested that, under the experimental conditions, element uptake is positively influenced by time and negatively by increasing concentrations of wood distillate, likely due to the acidification of the medium. On the whole, the element concentrations measured in A. filiculoides were low and did not pose any toxicological concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Fačkovcová
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (Z.F.); (A.V.); (F.M.); (M.G.)
- Institute of Botany, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, SK-84523 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Vannini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (Z.F.); (A.V.); (F.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Monaci
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (Z.F.); (A.V.); (F.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Martina Grattacaso
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (Z.F.); (A.V.); (F.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Luca Paoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Ghini 13, I-56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Stefano Loppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Pier Andrea Mattioli 4, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (Z.F.); (A.V.); (F.M.); (M.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Opriș O, Lung I, Soran ML, Ciorîță A, Copolovici L. Investigating the effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the composition and ultrastructure of green leafy vegetables with important nutritional values. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2020; 151:342-351. [PMID: 32272352 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2020.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The global presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment has been particularly considered a concerning problem with unknown consequences. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most frequently prescribed drugs in the world, and as a result, they are commonly found in different environmental compartments. In the present work, we studied the effects of NSAIDs (diclofenac, ibuprofen, and naproxen) on the composition and ultrastructure of Atriplex patula L., S. oleracea, and Lactuca sativa L., three green leafy vegetables with significant nutritional value. Contaminant solutions of NSAIDs were applied every two days using concentrations of 0.1 mg L-1, 0.5 mg L-1, and 1 mg L-1. After eight weeks of exposure of the green leafy vegetables to the selected NSAIDs, the chlorophylls (a + b), carotenoids (zeaxanthin, lutein, and ß-carotene), total polyphenol and total flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacity, and the ultrastructural modifications were determined. The obtained results indicated a moderate reduction in the assimilating pigments, total polyphenol and flavonoid contents. In addition, ultrastructural damages of the chloroplasts and cell walls were observed in the leaves of the selected vegetables, which were exposed to abiotic stress-induced by NSAIDs. All data collectively suggest that this group of drugs induced harmful effects on plants, and implicitly they may also negatively affected human health on the long term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ocsana Opriș
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ildikó Lung
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Maria-Loredana Soran
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ciorîță
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; "Babeș-Bolyai" University, Faculty of Biology and Geology, 5-7 Clinicilor, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Lucian Copolovici
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat, 400293, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection and Institute of Research, Innovation and Development in Technical and Natural Sciences of "Aurel Vlaicu" University, 2 Elena Drăgoi, 310330, Arad, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sathishkumar P, Meena RAA, Palanisami T, Ashokkumar V, Palvannan T, Gu FL. Occurrence, interactive effects and ecological risk of diclofenac in environmental compartments and biota - a review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 698:134057. [PMID: 31783460 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug has turned into a contaminant of emerging concern; hence, it was included in the previous Watch List of the EU Water Framework Directive. This review paper aims to highlight the metabolism of diclofenac at different trophic levels, its occurrence, ecological risks, and interactive effects in the water cycle and biota over the past two decades. Increased exposure to diclofenac not only raises health concerns for vultures, aquatic organisms, and higher plants but also causes serious threats to mammals. The ubiquitous nature of diclofenac in surface water (river, lake canal, estuary, and sea) is compared with drinking water, groundwater, and wastewater effluent in the environment. This comprehensive survey from previous studies suggests the fate of diclofenac in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and may predict its persistence in the environment. This review offers evidence of fragmentary available data for the water environment, soil, sediment, and biota worldwide and supports the need for further data to address the risks associated with the presence of diclofenac in the environment. Finally, we suggest that the presence of diclofenac and its metabolites in the environment may represent a high risk because of their synergistic interactions with existing contaminants, leading to the development of drug-resistant strains and the formation of newly emerging pollutants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Palanivel Sathishkumar
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, Ministry of Education; School of Chemistry and Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | | | - Thavamani Palanisami
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Veeramuthu Ashokkumar
- Center of Excellence in Catalysis for Bioenergy and Renewable Chemicals (CBRC), Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Thayumanavan Palvannan
- Laboratory of Bioprocess and Engineering, Department of Biochemistry, Periyar University, Salem 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Feng Long Gu
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, Ministry of Education; School of Chemistry and Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Alkimin GD, Daniel D, Dionísio R, Soares AMVM, Barata C, Nunes B. Effects of diclofenac and salicylic acid exposure on Lemna minor: Is time a factor? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 177:108609. [PMID: 31376628 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The global occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment has been considered a particularly concerning problem with unknown consequences. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including diclofenac (DCF) and salicylic acid (SA), are among the most frequently prescribed drugs in the world, being consequently commonly found in the aquatic environment. Prolonged experiments (with duration of exposure that surpass those recommended by already established testing guidelines) are important to obtain ecologically relevant data to address the issue of NSAIDs ecotoxicity, because by being more realistically (namely in terms of levels and durations of exposure), such tests may indicate realistic challenges posed to aquatic organisms. Among the most common test species that are used for assessing environmental quality, plants play a leading role. Lemna species are among the most important plants used for ecotoxicity testing. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the temporal effect of a prolonged exposure of DCF and SA on Lemna minor. To attain this purpose, L. minor plants were chronically exposed to 0, 4, 20, and 100 μg/L of both pharmaceuticals, and samplings were performed at 6, 10 and 14 days of exposure. The analyzed endpoints were: levels of chlorophyll a, b and total, carotenoids; and enzymatic biomarkers, such as catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferases. Diclofenac was responsible for alterations in all analyzed parameters in different intervals of exposure. Salicylic acid exposure was not capable of causing alterations on pigment contents of L. minor, however, enzymatic biomarkers were altered at all sampling intervals. Thus, it is possible to conclude that both pharmaceuticals can cause damage on the tested macrophyte species, biochemical parameters being more sensitive than physiological ones. Additional prolonged experiments are required to understand the chronic effects of different pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment, especially in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G D Alkimin
- Departamento de Biologia da Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal; Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar (CESAM), Campus de Santiago, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - D Daniel
- Departamento de Biologia da Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - R Dionísio
- Departamento de Biologia da Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - A M V M Soares
- Departamento de Biologia da Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal; Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar (CESAM), Campus de Santiago, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - C Barata
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Nunes
- Departamento de Biologia da Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal; Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar (CESAM), Campus de Santiago, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|