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Yang W, Gao P, Ye Z, Chen F, Zhu L. Micro/nano-plastics and microalgae in aquatic environment: Influence factor, interaction, and molecular mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173218. [PMID: 38761949 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nano-plastics, as emerging persistent pollutant, are frequently detected in aquatic environments together with other environmental pollutants. Microalgae are the major primary producers and bear an important responsibility for maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Numerous studies have been conducted on the influence of micro/nano-plastics on the growth, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, gene expression and metabolites of microalgae in laboratory studies. However, it is difficult to comprehensively evaluate the toxic effects of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae due to different experimental designs. Moreover, there is a lack of effective analysis of the aforementioned multi-omics data and reports on shared biological patterns. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to compare the acute, chronic, pulsed, and combined effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae and explore hidden rules in the molecular mechanisms of the interaction between them. Results showed that the effect of micro/nano-plastics on microalgae was related to exposure mode, exposure duration, exposure size, concentration, and type of micro/nano-plastics. Meanwhile, the phenomenon of poisoning and detoxification between micro/nano-plastics and microalgae was found. The inhibitory mechanism of micro/nano-plastics on algal growth was due to the micro/nano-plastics affected the photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and ribosome pathways of algal cells. This brought the disruption of the functions of chloroplasts, mitochondria, and ribosome, as well as impacted on energy metabolism and translation pathways, eventually leading to impairment of cell function. Besides, algae resisted this inhibitory effect by regulating the alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism and purine metabolism pathways, thereby increasing the chlorophyll synthesis, inhibiting the increase of reactive oxygen species, delaying the process of lipid peroxidation, balancing the osmotic pressure of cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Yang
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China
| | - Pan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, PR China
| | - Zongda Ye
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Funing Chen
- Technical Innovation Center of Mine Geological Environmental Restoration Engineering in Southern Karst Area, Ministry of Natural Resources, Nanning, Guangxi 530028, PR China; Natural Resources Ecological Restoration Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi 530029, PR China
| | - Liandong Zhu
- School of Resources & Environmental Science, Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass-Resources Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430079, PR China.
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Zheng P, Li Y, Cheng Y, Shen J. Mechanism Involved in Polyvinyl Chloride Nanoplastics Induced Anaerobic Granular Sludge Disintegration: Microbial Interaction Energy, EPS Molecular Structure, and Metabolism Functions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11542-11553. [PMID: 38871676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging pollutants and have been reported to cause the disintegration of anaerobic granular sludge (AnGS). However, the mechanism involved in AnGS disintegration was not clear. In this study, polyvinyl chloride nanoplastics (PVC-NPs) were chosen as target NPs and their long-term impact on AnGS structure was investigated. Results showed that increasing PVC-NPs concentration resulted in the inhibition of acetoclastic methanogens, syntrophic propionate, and butyrate degradation, as well as AnGS disintegration. At the presence of 50 μg·L-1 PVC-NPs, the hydrophobic interaction was weakened with a higher energy barrier due to the relatively higher hydrophilic functional groups in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). PVC-NPs-induced ROS inhibited quorum sensing, significantly downregulated hydrophobic amino acid synthesis, whereas it highly upregulated the genes related to the synthesis of four hydrophilic amino acids (Cys, Glu, Gly, and Lys), resulting in a higher hydrophily degree of protein secondary structure in EPS. The differential expression of genes involved in EPS biosynthesis and the resulting protein secondary structure contributed to the greater hydrophilic interaction, reducing microbial aggregation ability. The findings provided new insight into the long-term impact of PVC-NPs on AnGS when treating wastewater containing NPs and filled the knowledge gap on the mechanism involved in AnGS disintegration by PVC-NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Youpeng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Jinyou Shen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
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Guo Z, Li J, Zhang Z. Meta-analysis for systematic review of global micro/nano-plastics contamination versus various freshwater microalgae: Toxicological effect patterns, taxon-specific response, and potential eco-risks. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 258:121706. [PMID: 38761590 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121706] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nano-plastics (MNPs), as emerging persistent pollutants, are threatening freshwater ecosystems worldwide. Microalgae are important primary producers at the base of trophic level and susceptible to MNPs contamination, possibly resulting in further contamination in higher trophic levels and water quality. This study conducted a systematic review of 1071 observations from 63 publications, utilizing meta-analysis and subgroup analysis to investigate the toxicological effect patterns of MNPs parameters (size, concentration, and type) on microalgae. We also explored the potential eco-risks of certain specific MNPs parameters and subtle variations in the response of various microalgae taxa to MNPs. Results suggested that microplastics significantly inhibited microalgal photosynthesis, while nano-plastics induced more severe cell membrane damage and promoted toxin-release. Within a certain range of concentrations (0∼50 mg/L), rising MNPs concentration progressively inhibited microalgal growth and chlorophyll-a content, and progressively enhanced toxin-release. Among MNPs types, polyamide caused higher growth inhibition and more severe lipid peroxidation, and polystyrene induced more toxin-release, whereas polyethylene terephthalate and polymethyl methacrylate posed minimal effects on microalgae. Moreover, Bacillariophyta growth was inhibited most significantly, while Chlorophyta displayed strong tolerance and Cyanophyta possessed strong adaptive and exceptional resilience. Particularly, Komvophoron, Microcystis, Nostoc, Scenedesmus, and Gomphonema were more tolerant and might dominate freshwater microalgal communities under MNPs contamination. These results are crucial for acquiring the fate of freshwater microalgae under various MNPs contamination, identifying dominant microalgae, and reasonably assessing and managing involved eco-risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghui Guo
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jieming Li
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Ziqing Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Wang C, He M. Enhancing aggregation of microalgae on polystyrene microplastics by high light: Processes, drivers, and environmental risk assessment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135062. [PMID: 38959831 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants, causing potential threats to aquatic ecosystems and serious concern in aggregating with microalgae (critical primary producers). When entering water bodies, MPs are expected to sink below the water surface and disperse into varying water compartments with different light intensities. However, how light influences the aggregation processes of algal cells onto MPs and the associated molecular coupling mechanisms and derivative risks remain poorly understood. Herein, we investigated the aggregation behavior between polystyrene microplastics (mPS, 10 µm) and Chlorella pyrenoidosa under low (LL, 15 μmol·m-2·s-1), normal (NL, 55 μmol·m-2·s-1), and high light (HL, 150 μmol·m-2·s-1) conditions from integrated in vivo and in silico assays. The results indicated that under LL, the mPS particles primarily existed independently, whereas under NL and HL, C. pyrenoidosa tightly bounded to mPS by secreting more protein-rich extracellular polymeric substances. Infrared spectroscopy analysis and density functional theory calculation revealed that the aggregation formation was driven by non-covalent interaction involving van der Waals force and hydrogen bond. These processes subsequently enhanced the deposition and adherence capacity of mPS and relieved its phytotoxicity. Overall, our findings advance the practical and theoretical understanding of the ecological impacts of MPs in complex aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Yaru Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Changhai Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Solid Organic Waste Resource Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Co-Innovation Center for Jiangsu Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Lianyungang 222005, China.
| | - Meilin He
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Solid Organic Waste Resource Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Zhou Y, Cui X, Wu B, Wang Z, Liu Y, Ren T, Xia S, Rittmann BE. Microalgal extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and their roles in cultivation, biomass harvesting, and bioproducts extraction. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 406:131054. [PMID: 38944317 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Microalgae extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are complex high-molecular-weight polymers and the physicochemical properties of EPS strongly affect the core features of microalgae cultivation and resource utilization. Revealing the key roles of EPS in microalgae life-cycle processes in an interesting and novelty topic to achieve energy-efficient practical application of microalgae. This review found that EPS showed positive effect in non-gas uptake, extracellular electron transfer, toxicity resistance and heterotrophic symbiosis, but negative impact in gas transfer and light utilization during microalgae cultivation. For biomass harvesting, EPS favored biomass flocculation and large-size cell self-flocculation, but unfavored small size microalgae self-flocculation, membrane filtration, charge neutralization and biomass dewatering. During bioproducts extraction, EPS exhibited positive impact in extractant uptake, but the opposite effect in cellular membrane permeability and cell rupture. Future research on microalgal EPS were also identified, which offer suggestions for comprehensive understanding of microalgal EPS roles in various scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhou
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Xiaocai Cui
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Beibei Wu
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ying Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Tian Ren
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Siqing Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bruce E Rittmann
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5701, United States of America
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Yu J, Tian JY, Jiang Y, Wang XD, Song XR, Liu LF, Yang GP. Effects of micro- and nano-plastics on growth, antioxidant system, DMS, and DMSP production in Emiliania huxleyi. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 351:124084. [PMID: 38697245 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124084] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Due to the potential impacts of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) on algal growth and thereby affect the climate-relevant substances, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) and dimethyl sulfide (DMS), we studied the polystyrene (PS) MPs and NPs of 1 μm and 80 nm impacts on the growth, chlorophyll content, reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzyme activity, and DMS/DMSP production in Emiliania huxleyi. E. huxleyi is a prominent oceanic alga that plays a key role in DMS and DMSP production. The results revealed that high concentrations of MPs and NPs inhibited the growth, carotenoid (Car), and Chl a concentrations of E. huxleyi. However, short-time exposure to low concentrations of PS MPs and NPs stimulated the growth of E. huxleyi. Furthermore, high concentrations of MPs and NPs resulted in an increase in the superoxide anion radical (O2.-) production rate and a decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) content compared with the low concentrations. Exposure to MPs and NPs at 5 mg L-1 induced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as a response to scavenging ROS. High concentrations of MPs and NPs significantly inhibited the production of DMSP and DMS. The findings of this study support the potential ecotoxicological impacts of MPs and NPs on algal growth, antioxidant system, and dimethylated sulfur compounds production, which maybe potentially impact the global climate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yu
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Ji-Yuan Tian
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Xue-Dan Wang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China
| | - Xin-Ran Song
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Long-Fei Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Gui-Peng Yang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266237, China.
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Xiao Y, Tian Y, Xu W, Zhu J. Photodegradation of Microplastics through Nanomaterials: Insights into Photocatalysts Modification and Detailed Mechanisms. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:2755. [PMID: 38894019 PMCID: PMC11174110 DOI: 10.3390/ma17112755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose a profound environmental challenge, impacting ecosystems and human health through mechanisms such as bioaccumulation and ecosystem contamination. While traditional water treatment methods can partially remove microplastics, their limitations highlight the need for innovative green approaches like photodegradation to ensure more effective and sustainable removal. This review explores the potential of nanomaterial-enhanced photocatalysts in addressing this issue. Utilizing their unique properties like large surface area and tunable bandgap, nanomaterials significantly improve degradation efficiency. Different strategies for photocatalyst modification to improve photocatalytic performance are thoroughly summarized, with a particular emphasis on element doping and heterojunction construction. Furthermore, this review thoroughly summarizes the possible fundamental mechanisms driving the photodegradation of microplastics facilitated by nanomaterials, with a focus on processes like free radical formation and singlet oxygen oxidation. This review not only synthesizes critical findings from existing studies but also identifies gaps in the current research landscape, suggesting that further development of these photocatalytic techniques could lead to substantial advancements in environmental remediation practices. By delineating these novel approaches and their mechanisms, this work underscores the significant environmental implications and contributes to the ongoing development of sustainable solutions to mitigate microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Xiao
- Department of Biological Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Yang Tian
- Program of Material Science and Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA;
| | - Wenbo Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA;
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Biological Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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Xu SY, Mo YH, Liu YJ, Wang X, Li HY, Yang WD. Physiological and genetic responses of the benthic dinoflagellate Prorocentrum lima to polystyrene microplastics. HARMFUL ALGAE 2024; 136:102652. [PMID: 38876530 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2024.102652] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are well known as contaminants in marine environments. With the development of biofilms, most microplastics will eventually sink and deposit in benthic environment. However, little research has been done on benthic toxic dinoflagellates, and the effects of microplastics on benthic dinoflagellates are unknown. Prorocentrum lima is a cosmopolitan toxic benthic dinoflagellate, which can produce a range of polyether metabolites, such as diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) toxins. In order to explore the impact of microplastics on marine benthic dinoflagellates, in this paper, we studied the effects of polystyrene (PS) on the growth and toxin production of P. lima. The molecular response of P. lima to microplastic stress was analyzed by transcriptomics. We selected 100 nm, 10 μm and 100 μm PS, and set three concentrations of 1 mg L-1, 10 mg L-1 and 100 mg L-1. The results showed that PS exposure had limited effects on cell growth, but increased the OA and extracellular polysaccharide content at high concentrations. After exposure to PS MPs, genes associated with DSP toxins synthesis, carbohydrate synthesis and energy metabolism, such as glycolysis, TCA cycle and pyruvate metabolism, were significantly up-regulated. We speculated that after exposure to microplastics, P. lima may increase the synthesis of DSP toxins and extracellular polysaccharides, improve the level of energy metabolism and gene expression of ABC transporter, thereby protecting algal cells from damage. Our findings provide new insights into the effects of microplastics on toxic benthic dinoflagellates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yuan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Yan-Hang Mo
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Yu-Jie Liu
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Hong-Ye Li
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Wei-Dong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Eutrophication and Control of Harmful Algal Blooms of Guangdong Higher Education Institute, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China.
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Guo Z, Zhang M, Li J. Modifying luteolin's algicidal effect on Microcystis by virgin and diversely-aged polystyrene microplastics: Unveiling novel mechanisms through microalgal adaptive strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124237. [PMID: 38801882 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Luteolin has shown great potential in inhibiting Microcystis-dominated cyanobacterial blooms. However, widespread microplastics (MPs) in natural aquatic systems often serve as substrates for cyanobacterial growth, which could impact cyanobacterial resistance to external stresses and interfere with luteolin's algicidal effect. This study explored the influence of virgin and diversely-aged polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on inhibitory effect of luteolin on Microcystis growth and its microcystins (MCs) production/release. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms were also revealed by jointly analyzing SEM image, antioxidant response, exopolymeric substances (EPSs) production, and functional gene expression. Results suggested that 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/L virgin and diversely-aged PS-MPs almost weakened growth inhibition and oxidative damage of two doses of luteolin against Microcystisby stimulating its EPSs production and inducing self-aggregation of Microcystis cells and/or hetero-aggregation between Microcystis cells and PS-MPs. Compared to virgin PS-MPs, photo-aged PS-MPs possessed rougher flaky surfaces, and hydrothermal-aged PS-MPs showed internal cracking. These characteristics led to greater stimulation of EPS production and exhibited more significant protective effects on Microcystis. Notably, PS-MPs also decreased MCs content in aqueous phase, likely because they adsorbed some MCs. Such toxigenic hetero-aggregates formed by MCs, MPs, and Microcystis cells would directly poison grazing organisms that consume them and create more pathways for MCs into food web, posing greater eco-risks. This is the first study to clarify the influence and mechanisms of virgin and diversely-aged MPs on allelopathic algicidal effects from the perspective of microalgal inherent adaptive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghui Guo
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Mingxia Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jieming Li
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Organic Farming, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Luo L, Jiang X, Du Y, Dzakpasu M, Yang C, Guo W, Ngo HH, Wang XC. Impact of organic matter molecular weight on hexavalent chromium enrichment in green microalgae. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134304. [PMID: 38615650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134304] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
In lightly polluted water containing heavy metals, organic matter, and green microalgae, the molecular weight of organic matter may influence both the growth of green microalgae and the concentration of heavy metals. This study elucidates the effects and mechanisms by which different molecular weight fractions of fulvic acid (FA), a model dissolved organic matter component, facilitate the bioaccumulation of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in a typical green alga, Chlorella vulgaris. Findings show that the addition of FA fractions with molecular weights greater than 10 kDa significantly enhances the enrichment of total chromium and Cr(VI) in algal cells, reaching 21.58%-31.09 % and 16.17 %-22.63 %, respectively. Conversely, the efficiency of chromium enrichment in algal cells was found to decrease with decreasing molecular weight of FA. FA molecular weight within the range of 0.22 µm-30 kDa facilitated chromium enrichment primarily through the algal organic matter (AOM) pathway, with minor contributions from the algal cell proliferation and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) pathways. However, with decreasing FA molecular weight, the AOM and EPS pathways become less prominent, whereas the algal cell proliferation pathway becomes dominant. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of chromium enrichment in green algae enhanced by medium molecular weight FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Luo
- International Science & Technology Cooperation Center for Urban Alternative Water Resources Development, Key Lab of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Engineering Technology Research Center for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, Shaanxi Province, Key Lab of Environmental Engineering, Shaanxi Province, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an 710055, China.
| | - Xu Jiang
- International Science & Technology Cooperation Center for Urban Alternative Water Resources Development, Key Lab of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Engineering Technology Research Center for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, Shaanxi Province, Key Lab of Environmental Engineering, Shaanxi Province, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an 710055, China
| | - Yifei Du
- Yellow River Institute of Eco-Environmental Research, Henan Province, No.6, Changchun Road, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Mawuli Dzakpasu
- International Science & Technology Cooperation Center for Urban Alternative Water Resources Development, Key Lab of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Engineering Technology Research Center for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, Shaanxi Province, Key Lab of Environmental Engineering, Shaanxi Province, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an 710055, China
| | - Chao Yang
- International Science & Technology Cooperation Center for Urban Alternative Water Resources Development, Key Lab of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Engineering Technology Research Center for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, Shaanxi Province, Key Lab of Environmental Engineering, Shaanxi Province, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an 710055, China
| | - Wenshan Guo
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Huu Hao Ngo
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Xiaochang C Wang
- International Science & Technology Cooperation Center for Urban Alternative Water Resources Development, Key Lab of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Engineering Technology Research Center for Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, Shaanxi Province, Key Lab of Environmental Engineering, Shaanxi Province, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an 710055, China
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11
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Afonso V, Borges R, Rodrigues B, Barros R, João Bebianno M, Raposo S. Are native microalgae consortia able to remove microplastics from wastewater effluents? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123931. [PMID: 38582186 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) are potential sources of microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment. This study aimed to investigate the potential of wastewater-native microalgae consortia to remove MPs from the effluent of two different types of WWTPs as a dual-purpose solution for MPs mitigation and biomass production. For that purpose, the occurrence of MPs from two types of WWTP effluents was analysed over one year. MPs were characterized in terms of morphology (microbead, foam, granule, irregular, filament and film), colour and size. The wastewater characterisation was followed by the removal of MP loads, using native microalgae consortia, pre-adapted to the wastewater effluent. Microalgae consortia evolved naturally through four mitigation assays, adapted to seasonal conditions, such as temperature, photoperiod, and wastewater composition. MPs were present in all the effluent samples, ranging from 52 to 233 MP L-1. The characterisation of MPs indicated a predominance of white and transparent particles, with irregular and filament shapes, mainly under 500 μm in size. The μFTIR analysis revealed that 43% of the selected particles were plastic, with a prevalence of polypropylene (PP) (34%) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (30 %). In the mitigation experiments, substantial biomass production was achieved (maximum of 2.6 g L-1 (d.w.)), with successful removal of MPs, ranging from 31 ± 25% to 82 ± 13%. These results show that microalgae growth in wastewater effluents efficiently promotes the removal of MPs, reducing this source of contamination in the aquatic environment, while generating valuable biomass. Additionally, the strategy employed, requires minimal control of culture conditions, simplifying the integration of these systems in real-world WWTP facilities for improved wastewater management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valdemira Afonso
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Rodrigo Borges
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Brígida Rodrigues
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Raúl Barros
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Bebianno
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
| | - Sara Raposo
- CIMA, Centre of Marine and Environmental Research\\ARNET - Infrastructure Network in Aquatic Research, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139, Faro, Portugal.
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12
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Zhang B, Wang Z, Li D, Li L, Zhao Y, Tang X, Zhao Y. Reactive oxygen species mediated extracellular polymeric substances production assisting the recovery of Thalassiosira pseudonana from polystyrene micro and nanoplastics exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123850. [PMID: 38548148 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123850] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
As emerging pollutants in the aquatic environments, micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) aroused widespread environmental concerns for their potential threats to the ecological health. Previous research has proved that microalgae growth could recover from the MNPs toxicities, in which the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) might play the key role. In order to comprehensively investigate the recovery process of microalgae from MNPs stress and the effecting mechanisms of EPS therein, this study conducted a series of experiments by employing two sizes (0.1 and 1 μm) of polystyrene (PS) MNPs and the marine model diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana during 14 days. The results indicated: the pigments accumulations and photosynthetic recovery of T. pseudonana under MPs exposure showed in the early stage (4-5 days), while the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and EPS contents lasted longer time period (7-8 days). EPS was aggregated with MNPs particles and microalgal cells, corresponding to the increased settlement rates. More increase of soluble (SL)-EPS contents was found than bound (B)-EPS under MNPs exposure, in which the increase of the protein proportion and humic acid-like substances in SL-EPS was found, thus facilitating aggregates formation. ROS was the signaling molecule mediating the overproduction of EPS. The transcriptional results further proved the enhanced EPS biosynthesis on the molecular level. Therefore, this study elucidated the recovery pattern of microalgae from MNPs stress and linked "ROS-EPS production changes-aggregation formation" together during the growth recovery process, with important scientific and environmental significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bihan Zhang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Danrui Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Luying Li
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yirong Zhao
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xuexi Tang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Department of Marine Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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13
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Nohara NML, Ariza-Tarazona MC, Triboni ER, Nohara EL, Villarreal-Chiu JF, Cedillo-González EI. Are you drowned in microplastic pollution? A brief insight on the current knowledge for early career researchers developing novel remediation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170382. [PMID: 38307272 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) composed of different polymers with various shapes, within a vast granulometric distribution (1 μm - 5 mm) and with a wide variety of physicochemical surface and bulk characteristics spiral around the globe, with different atmospheric, oceanic, cryospheric, and terrestrial residence times, while interacting with other pollutants and biota. The challenges of microplastic pollution are related to the complex relationships between the microplastic generation mechanisms (physical, chemical, and biological), their physicochemical properties, their interactions with other pollutants and microorganisms, the changes in their properties with aging, and their small sizes that facilitate their diffusion and transportation between the air, water, land, and biota, thereby promoting their ubiquity. Early career researchers (ERCs) constitute an essential part of the scientific community committed to overcoming the challenges of microplastic pollution with their new ideas and innovative scientific perspectives for the development of remediation technologies. However, because of the enormous amount of scientific information available, it may be difficult for ERCs to determine the complexity of this environmental issue. This mini-review aims to provide a quick and updated overview of the essential insights of microplastic pollution to ERCs to help them acquire the background needed to develop highly innovative physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, as well as valorization proposals and environmental education and awareness campaigns. Moreover, the recommendations for the development of holistic microplastic pollution remediation strategies presented here can help ERCs propose technologies considering the environmental, social, and practical dimensions of microplastic pollution while fulfilling the current government policies to manage this plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoly Milhardo Lourenço Nohara
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Maria Camila Ariza-Tarazona
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy
| | - Eduardo Rezende Triboni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering of Lorena, University of São Paulo, Estrada Municipal do Campinho, no number, Lorena, Brazil
| | - Evandro Luís Nohara
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Taubaté, R. Daniel Daneli, no number, Taubaté, Brazil
| | - Juan Francisco Villarreal-Chiu
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Av. Universidad S/N Ciudad Universitaria, San Nicolás de los Garza 66455, Nuevo León, Mexico; Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología (CIByN), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Km. 10 autopista al Aeropuerto Internacional Mariano Escobedo, Apodaca 66628, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Erika Iveth Cedillo-González
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10/1, Modena 41125, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM), Via Giusti, Florence 50121, Italy.
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14
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Bhatia SK, Kumar G, Yang YH. Understanding microplastic pollution: Tracing the footprints and eco-friendly solutions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169926. [PMID: 38199349 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human health. These are plastic particles measuring <5 mm and are categorized as primary and secondary based on their origin. Primary MPs are used in various products like cosmetics, scrubs, body wash, and toothpaste, while secondary MPs are generated through the degradation of plastic products. These have been detected in seas, rivers, snow, indoor air, and seafood, posing potential risks to human health through the food chain. Detecting and quantifying MPs are essential to understand their distribution and abundance in the environment. Various microscopic (fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy) and spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) have been reported to analyse MPs. Despite the challenges in scalable removal methods, biological systems have emerged as promising options for eco-friendly MPs remediation. Algae, bacteria, and fungi have shown the potential to adsorb and degrade MPs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) offering hope for mitigating this global crisis. This review examines the sources, impacts, detection, and biological removal of MPs, highlighting future directions in this crucial field of environmental conservation. By fostering global collaboration and innovative research a path towards a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations can be promised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Kant Bhatia
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, Box 8600 Forus, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Ding S, Gu X, Sun S, He S. Optimization of microplastic removal based on the complementarity of constructed wetland and microalgal-based system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169081. [PMID: 38104829 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
As one of the emblematic emerging contaminants, microplastics (MPs) have aroused great public concern. Nevertheless, the global community still insufficiently acknowledges the ecological health risks and resolution strategies of MP pollution. As the nature-based biotechnologies, the constructed wetland (CW) and microalgal-based system (MBS) have been applied in exploring the removal of MPs recently. This review separately presents the removal research (mechanism, interactions, implications, and technical defects) of MPs by a single method of CWs or MBS. But one thing with certitude is that the exclusive usage of these techniques to combat MPs has non-negligible and formidable challenges. The negative impacts of MP accumulation on CWs involve toxicity to macrophytes, substrates blocking, and nitrogen-removing performance inhibition. While MPs restrict MBS practical application by making troubles for separation difficulties of microalgal-based aggregations from effluent. Hence the combined strategy of microalgal-assisted CWs is proposed based on the complementarity of biotechnologies, in an attempt to expand the removing size range of MPs, create more biodegradable conditions and improve the effluent quality. Our work evaluates and forecasts the potential of integrating combination for strengthening micro-polluted wastewater treatment, completing the synergistic removal of MP-based co-pollutants and achieving long-term stability and sustainability, which is expected to provide new insights into MP pollution regulation and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxuan Ding
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Xushun Gu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Shanshan Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China
| | - Shengbing He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, PR China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Landscape Water Environment, Shanghai 200031, PR China.
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16
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Zhang Y, Wang JX, Liu Y, Zhang JT, Wang JH, Chi ZY. Effects of environmental microplastic exposure on Chlorella sp. biofilm characteristics and its interaction with nitric oxide signaling. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169659. [PMID: 38159749 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Microalgal biofilm is promising in simultaneous pollutants removal, CO2 fixation, and biomass resource transformation when wastewater is used as culturing medium. Nitric oxide (NO) often accumulates in microalgal cells under wastewater treatment relevant abiotic stresses such as nitrogen deficiency, heavy metals, and antibiotics. However, the influence of emerging contaminants such as microplastics (MPs) on microalgal intracellular NO is still unknown. Moreover, the investigated MPs concentrations among existing studies were mostly several magnitudes higher than in real wastewaters, which could offer limited guidance for the effects of MPs on microalgae at environment-relevant concentrations. Therefore, this study investigated three commonly observed MPs in wastewater at environment-relevant concentrations (10-10,000 μg/L) and explored their impacts on attached Chlorella sp. growth characteristics, nutrients removal, and anti-oxidative responses (including intracellular NO content). The nitrogen source NO3--N at 49 mg/L being 20 % of the nitrogen strength in classic BG-11 medium was selected for MPs exposure experiments because of least intracellular NO accumulation, so that disturbance of intracellular NO by nitrogen availability could be avoided. Under such condition, 10 μg/L polyethylene (PE) MPs displayed most significant microalgal growth inhibition comparing with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyamide (PA) MPs, showing extraordinarily low chlorophyll a/b ratios, and highest superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and intracellular NO content after 12 days of MPs exposure. PVC MPs exposed cultures displayed highest malonaldehyde (MDA) content because of the toxic characteristics of organochlorines, and most significant correlations of intracellular NO content with conventional anti-oxidative parameters of SOD, CAT (catalase), and MDA. MPs accelerated phosphorus removal, and the type rather than concentration of MPs displayed higher influences, following the trend of PE > PA > PVC. This study expanded the knowledge of microalgal biofilm under environment-relevant concentrations of MPs, and innovatively discovered the significance of intracellular NO as a more sensitive indicator than conventional anti-oxidative parameters under MPs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Jian-Xia Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Yang Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Jing-Tian Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
| | - Jing-Han Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, PR China.
| | - Zhan-You Chi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, PR China
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17
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Mendonça I, Faria M, Rodrigues F, Cordeiro N. Microalgal-based industry vs. microplastic pollution: Current knowledge and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168414. [PMID: 37963529 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae can play a crucial role in the environment due to their efficient capture of CO2 and their potential as a solution for a carbon-negative economy. Water quality is critical for the success and profitability of microalgal-based industries, and understanding their response to emergent pollutants, such as microplastics (MPs), is essential. Despite the published studies investigating the impact of MPs on microalgae, knowledge in this area remains limited. Most studies have mainly focused on microalgal growth, metabolite analysis, and photosynthetic activity, with significant discrepancies in what is known about the impact on biomass yield. Recent studies show that the yield of biomass production depends on the levels of water contamination by MPs, making it necessary to reduce the contamination levels in the water. However, present technologies for extracting and purifying water from MPs are limited, and further research and technological advancements are required. One promising solution is the use of bio-based polymer materials, such as bacterial cellulose, which offer biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally friendly detoxifying properties. This review summarises the current knowledge on MPs pollution and its impact on the viability and proliferation of microalgae-based industries, highlights the need for further research, and discusses the potential of bio-solutions for MPs removal in microalgae-based industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Mendonça
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Marisa Faria
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Rodrigues
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Nereida Cordeiro
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal.
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18
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Domozych DS, LoRicco JG. The extracellular matrix of green algae. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 194:15-32. [PMID: 37399237 PMCID: PMC10762512 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Green algae display a wide range of extracellular matrix (ECM) components that include various types of cell walls (CW), scales, crystalline glycoprotein coverings, hydrophobic compounds, and complex gels or mucilage. Recently, new information derived from genomic/transcriptomic screening, advanced biochemical analyses, immunocytochemical studies, and ecophysiology has significantly enhanced and refined our understanding of the green algal ECM. In the later diverging charophyte group of green algae, the CW and other ECM components provide insight into the evolution of plants and the ways the ECM modulates during environmental stress. Chlorophytes produce diverse ECM components, many of which have been exploited for various uses in medicine, food, and biofuel production. This review highlights major advances in ECM studies of green algae.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Domozych
- Department of Biology, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, USA
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19
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Liu S, Jin R, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Shen M, Wang Y. Are algae a promising ecofriendly approach to micro/nanoplastic remediation? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166779. [PMID: 37660628 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
How to reduce microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystem has become the focus of the global attention. The re-removal of microplastics of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent is gradually being put on the agenda. Recently, algae have been used as an ecofriendly remediation strategy for microplastic removal. Microplastics in sewage can be removed by algae through interception, capture, and entanglement, and can also form heterogeneous aggregates with algae, thereby reducing their free suspensions. Algae can recover nitrogen and carbon from wastewater and can be made into biochar, biofertilizers, and biofuels. However, problematically, this technology has been in the laboratory research stage, and existing research results cannot provide effective basis for its application. Microplastic removal via algae is influenced by wastewater flow rate, microplastic types, and pollutants. Microplastics are only physically fixed by algae, and ensuring that microplastics do not re-enter the environment during resource and capacity recovery is also a key factor limiting the implementation of this technology. The topic of this paper is to discuss the performance of the current tertiary wastewater treatment process - algae process to remove microplastics. Algae can remove nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants in sewage and remove microplastics at the same time, which can realize energy recovery and reduce ecological risks of the effluent. Although algae combined tertiary sewage treatment is a green technology for microplastic removal, its application still needs to be explored. The key challenges that need to be addressed, from single laboratory conditions to complex conditions, from small-scale testing to large-scale simulations, lie ahead of the application of this friendly technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Ruixin Jin
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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20
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Zhao Y, Jin R, Chen Y, Zhang J, Tao S, Liu S, Shen M. Constructed wetlands as neglected fixed source of microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes in natural water bodies? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166474. [PMID: 37625720 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166474] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The pollution status and the harm caused by microplastics and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic ecosystems have been a growing concern. The presence of microplastics could accelerate the transfer and spread of ARGs. Before sewage reaches natural water bodies, microplastics and ARGs need to be eliminated through specific processes. Constructed wetlands are currently an effective and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment process. Research has shown significant effectiveness in removing microplastics and ARGs. Microplastics and ARGs can be removed through processes such as adsorption, capture, adhesion, and biodegradation. However, long-term continuous operation could lead to constructed wetlands becoming significant reservoirs of microplastics and ARGs. Inflow loads and seasonal variations in constructed wetlands may result in the reintroduction of persistent microplastics and ARGs into the receiving water body, establishing the constructed wetland as a continuous source of these pollutants in the receiving water body. The key to the widespread application of constructed wetlands lies in solving this challenging problem. Therefore, although constructed wetlands serve as a green strategy for removing microplastics and ARGs, there are still many gaps in our knowledge. Based on the current accumulation of microplastics and ARGs in constructed wetlands, this paper summarizes the removal of microplastics and ARGs in existing constructed wetlands and explores the interaction between them. Additionally, it proposes suggestions for optimizing the process and improving the reliability of monitoring microplastics and ARGs in sewage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Ruixin Jin
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Yihua Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
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21
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Liu S, Su C, Lu Y, Xian Y, Chen Z, Wang Y, Deng X, Li X. Effects of microplastics on the properties of different types of sewage sludge and strategies to overcome the inhibition: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166033. [PMID: 37543332 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified as an emerging pollutant. When microplastics enter wastewater treatment plants, the plant traps most of the microplastics in the sludge during sewage treatment. Therefore, the effects of microplastics on sludge removal performance, and on the physical and chemical properties and microbial communities in sludge, have attracted extensive attention. This review mainly describes the presence of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants, and the effects of microplastics on the decontamination efficiency and physicochemical properties of activated sludge, aerobic granular sludge, anaerobic granular sludge and anaerobic ammonium oxidation sludge. Further, the review summarizes the effects of microplastics on microbial activity and microbial community dynamics in various sludges in terms of type, concentration, and contact time. The mechanisms used to strengthen the reduction of microplastics, such as biochar and hydrochar, are also discussed. This review summarizes the mechanism by which microplastics influence the performance of different types of sludge, and proposes effective strategies to mitigate the inhibitive effect of microplastics on sludge and discusses removal technologies of microplastics in sewage. Biochar and hydrochar are one of the effective measures to overcome the inhibition of microplastics on sludge. Meanwhile, constructed wetland may be one of the important choice for the future removal of microplastics from sewage. The goal is to provide theoretical support and insights for ensuring the stable operation of wastewater treatment plants and reducing the impact of microplastics on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Chengyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China.
| | - Yiying Lu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yunchuan Xian
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Zhengpeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xue Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
| | - Xinjuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, PR China
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22
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Das P, Halder G, Bal M. A critical review on remediation of microplastics using microalgae from aqueous system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 898:166425. [PMID: 37598972 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166425] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are deemed to be a global concern due to their harmful negative effects on the aquatic environment and human beings. MPs have a significant impact on both fresh and marine water ecosystems. In many countries, there is concern about the deleterious consequences of MPs on human health due to the presence of MPs in aquatic life for higher intake of marine food (fish and shellfish). Exposure to MPs causes fish to suffer from growth retardation, neurotoxicity, and behavioural abnormalities and it affects human as well. It causes oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and immune system disruption after being ingested to these contaminated fish in human body. Due to these reasons, it has become imperative to find ways to resolve this problem. This review paper represents a pioneering endeavor by consolidating comprehensive information on microplastic-polluted Indian riverine ecosystems and effective MPs removal methods into a single, cohesive document. It meticulously evaluates the principles, removal efficiency, benefits, and drawbacks of various techniques, aiming to identify the most optimal solution. Furthermore, this paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the interesting interactions between MPs and microalgae, delving into the intricate processes of hetero-aggregation. Additionally, it shines a spotlight on the latest advancements in understanding the efficacy of microalgae in removing MPs, showcasing recent breakthroughs in this field of research. Moreover, the work goes beyond conventional assessments by elucidating the characteristics of MPs and exploring diverse influencing parameters that impact MPs removal by microalgae and also addresses the potential future aspects. This thorough investigation uncovers important factors that could significantly contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable remediation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Das
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, West Bengal 713209, India
| | - Gopinath Halder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, West Bengal 713209, India
| | - Manisha Bal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, West Bengal 713209, India.
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23
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Zhao Y, Tao S, Liu S, Hu T, Zheng K, Shen M, Meng G. Research advances on impacts micro/nanoplastics and their carried pollutants on algae in aquatic ecosystems: A review. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 264:106725. [PMID: 37806023 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
The widespread presence of micro/nanoplastics in aquatic ecosystems has certainly affected ecosystem functions and food chains/webs. The impact is worsened by the accumulation of different pollutants and microorganisms on the surface of microplastics. At the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels, micro/nanoplastics and the contaminants they carry can cause damage to aquatic organisms. Problematically, the toxic mechanism of micro/nanoplastics and contaminants on aquatic organisms is still not fully understood. Algae are key organisms in the aquatic ecosystem, serving as primary producers. The investigation of the toxic effects and mechanisms of micro/nanoparticles and pollutants on algae can contribute to understanding the impact on the aquatic ecosystem. Micro/nanoplastics inhibit algal growth, reduce chlorophyll and photosynthesis, induce ultrastructural changes, and affect gene expression in algae. The effects of energy flow can alter the productivity of aquatic organisms. The type, particle size, and concentration of micro/nanoparticles can influence their toxic effects on algae. Although there has been some research on the toxic effects of algae, the limited information has led to a significant lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the interactions between micro/nanoplastics, pollutants, and algae. The effects of various factors on algal toxicity are also analyzed. In addition, this article discusses the combined effects of microplastics, global warming, and oil pollution on algae and aquatic ecosystems in the context of global change. This research is of great importance for predicting future environmental changes. This review offers a more comprehensive understanding of the interactions between microplastics/nanoplastics and algae, as well as their impact on the carbon cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Shiwei Liu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
| | - Tong Hu
- Department of Environment Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Zheng
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China.
| | - Guanhua Meng
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, PR China
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24
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Gao N, Ning R, Deng X. Feasibility, challenges, and future prospects of microalgae-based bioremediation technique for removing microplastics from wastewater. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1288439. [PMID: 37929194 PMCID: PMC10621199 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1288439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Gao
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Impacts of Hydraulic-projects and Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystem of Ministry of Water Resources, Institute of Hydroecology, Ministry of Water Resources and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Huangdao Gaoning Clinic of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Qingdao, China
| | - Ruoxu Ning
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiangyuan Deng
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Impacts of Hydraulic-projects and Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystem of Ministry of Water Resources, Institute of Hydroecology, Ministry of Water Resources and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
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25
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Piyathilake U, Lin C, Bundschuh J, Herath I. A review on constructive classification framework of research trends in analytical instrumentation for secondary micro(nano)plastics: What is new and what needs next? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 335:122320. [PMID: 37544402 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122320] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Secondary micro(nano)plastics generated from the degradation of plastics pose a major threat to environmental and human health. Amid the growing research on microplastics to date, the detection of secondary micro(nano)plastics is hampered by inadequate analytical instrumentation in terms of accuracy, validation, and repeatability. Given that, the current review provides a critical evaluation of the research trends in instrumental methods developed so far for the qualitative and quantitative determination of micro(nano)plastics with an emphasis on the evolution, new trends, missing links, and future directions. We conducted a meta-analysis of the growing literature surveying over 800 journal articles published from 2004 to 2022 based on the Web of Science database. The significance of this review is associated with the proposed novel classification framework to identify three main research trends, viz. (i) preliminary investigations, (ii) current progression, and (iii) novel advances in sampling, characterization, and quantification targeting both micro- and nano-sized plastics. Field Flow Fractionation (FFF) and Hydrodynamic Chromatography (HDC) were found to be the latest techniques for sampling and extraction of microplastics. Fluorescent Molecular Rotor (FMR) and Thermal Desorption-Proton Transfer Reaction-Mass Spectrometry (TD-PTR-MS) were recognized as the modern developments in the identification and quantification of polymer units in micro(nano)plastics. Powerful imaging techniques, viz. Digital Holographic Imaging (DHI) and Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM) offered nanoscale analysis of the surface topography of nanoplastics. Machine learning provided fast and less labor-intensive analytical protocols for accurate classification of plastic types in environmental samples. Although the existing analytical methods are justifiable merely for microplastics, they are not fully standardized for nanoplastics. Future research needs to be more inclined towards secondary nanoplastics for their effective and selective analysis targeting a broad range of environmental and biological matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udara Piyathilake
- Environmental Science Division, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Kandy, 20000, Sri Lanka
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Jochen Bundschuh
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, The University of Southern Queensland, West Street, QLD, 4350, Australia
| | - Indika Herath
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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26
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Wang B, Zhu W, Wu S, Hou H, Cheng L, Xu X, Li Y, Lin X, Xue Z. Distribution and changes in microplastics in Taihu Lake and cyanobacterial blooms formed by the aggregation of Microcystis colonies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:107331-107340. [PMID: 36565424 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24959-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As a new type of pollutant, microplastics have attracted much attention. As the third largest freshwater lake in China, Taihu Lake is characterized by severe eutrophication caused by external pollution and frequent occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms. Although there have been previous investigations into the spatial distribution of microplastics in Taihu Lake, research on the relationships among microplastics, pollutants, and cyanobacterial blooms, as well as the spatiotemporal distribution and changing characteristics of microplastics, is deficient. This study investigated the characteristics of microplastics, pollutants, and cyanobacterial blooms in the surface water and sediments of Taihu Lake. The abundances of microplastics were 0-3.7 items/L in the surface water and 44.42-417.56 items/kg (dry weight) in the sediments. Microplastics are most abundant in the western, southern, and northern lake areas. The northern and western lake areas are severely polluted, and cyanobacterial blooms are prone to occur in these areas. This study found that microplastics exist in the surface water of the southeastern lake area, which is a source of drinking water, and the microplastics may thus have adverse effects on drinking water quality. As the main organisms in the cyanobacterial blooms, Microcystis and microplastics have similar spatial distributions in Taihu Lake and are both affected by wind. Based on a combination of the investigations of this paper with the existing research on the microplastics in Taihu Lake, the spatiotemporal distribution of microplastics was obtained: the abundance of microplastics in surface water has continuously decreased, there are no obvious spatial distribution differences, and the spatial distribution of microplastics in the sediments is the same as that in the surface water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, China.
- Taihu Lake Research Center, Institute of Water Science and Technology, Hohai University, Nanjing, China.
- College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Silin Wu
- College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Geoenvironmental Disaster Prevention and Remediation, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Hao Hou
- College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin Cheng
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoge Xu
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuehong Li
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zongpu Xue
- College of Hydrology and Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
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27
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Su Y, Gao L, Peng L, Diao X, Lin S, Bao R, Mehmood T. Heterogeneous aggregation between microplastics and microalgae: May provide new insights for microplastics removal. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 261:106638. [PMID: 37517318 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Existing studies have shown that microplastics (MPs) as artificial surfaces can be colonized by plankton microorganisms. However, systematic research on exploring the aggregation formation process of MPs and microalgae is still lacking and particularly the influencing factors of aggregation remain to be elucidated. Therefore, this study investigated the heterogeneous aggregation process between various microalgal species (i.e., Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus, Tetraselmis subcordiformis, Chaetoceros müelleri and Streptococcus westermani) and MPs (i.e., mPS and mPLA) with different sizes (i.e., 74 μm and 613 μm), concentrations (i.e., 0.1 g/L, 1 g/L and 2 g/L) and shapes (i.e., the particle and sheet). The results showed that microalgae can first attach to the holes or protrusions of MPs and highly accumulate in the local region, and then multi-layer aggregation can be formed subsequently. The aggregation degree between MPs and microalgae was closely related to the MPs shape and size, and was less related to the MPs concentration. The aggregation speed of small-sized MPs (e.g., 74 μm) was faster than the large-sized ones (e.g., 613 μm). The MPs in a shape of sheet were more obvious than those in particle on their aggregation with microalgae. The density of aggregates was increased compared with pristine MPs, which is related to the cell density and cell number of attached microalgae. For the same type of MPs, the aggregation degree for the tested microalgae was as follows: Scenedesmus obliquus > C. vulgaris > T. subcordiformis > C. müelleri > S. westermani. Meanwhile, MPs inhibited cell growth of microalgae, particularly under the circumstance of their aggregation, by limiting the gas and mass transfer between microalgal cells and the extracellular environment. The heterogeneous aggregation of MPs and microalgae may provide new ideas for treatment and controlling of MPs in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Liu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Xiaoping Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Shengyou Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Ruiqi Bao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Tariq Mehmood
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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Mendonça I, Cunha C, Kaufmann M, Faria M, Cordeiro N. Microplastics reduce microalgal biomass by decreasing single-cell weight: The barrier towards implementation at scale. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162950. [PMID: 36948319 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a widespread environmental threat, especially to aquatic and urban systems. Water quality is vital for biomass production in microalgal-based industries. Here, industrially relevant microalgae Tetraselmis suecica, Scenedesmus armatus, and Nannochloropsis gaditana were exposed to PS- and PE-MPs (polystyrene and polyethylene, respectively - 10-20 μm) contaminated waters (5 and 10 mg/L). Following industrial empirical and ecotoxicological procedures, the production period was established as four days (exponential growth phase). 27-long day experiments were conducted to determine the chronic effects of MPs contamination in microalgal biomass yields. MPs induced different responses in cell density: T. suecica decreased (up to 11 %); S. armatus showed no changes; and N. gaditana increased (up to 6 %). However, all three microalgae exhibited significant decreases in biomass production (up to 24, 48, and 52 %, respectively). S. armatus exposed to PS-MPs and N. gaditana exposed to PE-MPs were the most impacted regarding biomass production. The decrease in biomass yield was due to the reduction in single-cell weight (up to 14, 47, and 43 %), and/or the production of smaller-sized cells (T. suecica). In response to chronic exposure, microalgae showed signs of cell density adaptation. Despite cell density normalizing, biomass production was still reduced compared to biomass production in clean water. Computational modelling highlighted that MPs exposure had a concentration-dependent negative impact on microalgae biomass. The models allow the evaluation of the systematic risks that MPs impose in microalgal-based industries and stimulate actions towards implementing systems to contain/eliminate MPs contamination in the waters used in microalgae production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Mendonça
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
| | - César Cunha
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
| | - Manfred Kaufmann
- CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal; Marine Biology Station of Funchal, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
| | - Marisa Faria
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Nereida Cordeiro
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
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29
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Zhu H, Fan X, Zou H, Guo RB, Fu SF. Effects of size and surface charge on the sedimentation of nanoplastics in freshwater. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139194. [PMID: 37315858 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The environmental issues caused by nanoplastics (NPs) are increasingly noticeable. Environmental behavior study of the NPs could provide vital information for their environmental impact assessment. However, associations between NPs' inherent properties and their sedimentation behaviors were seldom investigated. In this study, six types of PSNPs (polystyrene nanoplastics) with different charges (positive and negative) and particle sizes (20-50 nm, 150-190 nm and 220-250 nm) were synthesized, and their sedimentations under different environmental factors, (e.g., pH value, ionic strength (IS), electrolyte type and natural organic matter) were investigated. Results displayed that both particle size and surface charge would affect the sedimentation of PSNPs. The maximum sedimentation ratio of 26.48% was obtained in positive charged PSNPs with size of 20-50 nm, while the minimum sedimentation ratio of 1.02% was obtained in negative charged PSNPs with size of 220-250 nm at pH 7.6. The pH value shift (range of 5-10) triggered negligible changes of sedimentation ratio, the average particle size and the Zeta potential. Small size PSNPs (20-50 nm) showed higher sensitivity to IS, electrolyte type and HA condition than large size PSNPs. At high IS value ( [Formula: see text] = 30 mM or ISNaCl = 100 mM), the sedimentation ratios of the PSNPs all increased differently according to their properties, and the sedimentation promoting effect of CaCl2 was more significant on negative charged PSNPs than positive charged PSNPs. When [Formula: see text] increased from 0.9 to 9 mM, the sedimentation ratios of negative charged PSNPs increased by 0.53%-23.49%, while that of positive charged PSNPs increased by less than 10%. Besides, humic acid (HA) addition (1-10 mg/L) would lead to a stable suspension status for PSNPs in water with different degree and perhaps different mechanism due to their charge characteristics. These results showed new light on influence factor studies of NPs' sedimentation and would be helpful for further knowledge of NPs' environmental behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglu Zhu
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production & Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, NO.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, PR China.
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production & Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Shandong Energy Institute, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, 116023, PR China
| | - Hua Zou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, NO.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, 214122, PR China
| | - Rong-Bo Guo
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production & Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Shandong Energy Institute, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, 116023, PR China
| | - Shan-Fei Fu
- Shandong Industrial Engineering Laboratory of Biogas Production & Utilization, Key Laboratory of Biofuels, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Shandong Energy Institute, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, NO. 189 Songling Road, Qingdao, 266101, PR China; Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, 116023, PR China.
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30
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Lin YS, Sun CL, Tsang S, Bensalem S, Le Pioufle B, Wang HY. Label-free and noninvasive analysis of microorganism surface epistructures at the single-cell level. Biophys J 2023; 122:1794-1806. [PMID: 37041747 PMCID: PMC10209039 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell surface properties of microorganisms provide abundant information for their physiological status and fate choice. However, current methods for analyzing cell surface properties require labeling or fixation, which can alter the cell activity. This study establishes a label-free, rapid, noninvasive, and quantitative analysis of cell surface properties, including the presence and the dimension of epistructure, down to the single-cell level and at the nanometer scale. Simultaneously, electrorotation provides dielectric properties of intracellular contents. With the combined information, the growth phase of microalgae cells can be identified. The measurement is based on electrorotation of single cells, and an electrorotation model accounting for the surface properties is developed to properly interpret experimental data. The epistructure length measured by electrorotation is validated by scanning electron microscopy. The measurement accuracy is satisfactory in particular in the case of microscale epistructures in the exponential phase and nanoscale epistructures in the stationary phase. However, the measurement accuracy for nanoscale epistructures on cells in the exponential phase is offset by the effect of a thick double layer. Lastly, a diversity in epistructure length distinguishes exponential phase from stationary phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Sheng Lin
- Department of Engineering and System Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Université Paris Saclay, ENS Paris Saclay, CNRS Institut d'Alembert, SATIE, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Chen-Li Sun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sung Tsang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sakina Bensalem
- Université Paris Saclay, ENS Paris Saclay, CNRS Institut d'Alembert, LUMIN, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Bruno Le Pioufle
- Université Paris Saclay, ENS Paris Saclay, CNRS Institut d'Alembert, LUMIN, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Hsiang-Yu Wang
- Department of Engineering and System Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.
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31
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Marchant DJ, Martínez Rodríguez A, Francelle P, Jones JI, Kratina P. Contrasting the effects of microplastic types, concentrations and nutrient enrichment on freshwater communities and ecosystem functioning. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114834. [PMID: 36989946 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are now ubiquitous in freshwater environments. As most previous research has focused on species-specific effects of microplastics under controlled laboratory conditions, little is known about the impact of microplastics at higher levels of ecological organisation, such as freshwater communities and their associated ecosystem functions. To fill this knowledge gap, an outdoor experiment using 40 freshwater mesocosms, each 1.57 m3, was used to determine the effects of (i) microplastic type: traditional oil-based high-density polyethylene versus bio-based biodegradable polylactic acid, (ii) concentration of microplastic particles and (iii) nutrient enrichment. The two concentrations of microplastics used were equivalent to measured environmentally occurring concentrations and concentrations known to cause toxicological effects under laboratory conditions. Freshwater communities are also at increasing risk from nutrient enrichment, which can alter community composition in favour of competitively dominant taxa. The independent and interactive effects of these treatments on pelagic community structure (phytoplankton standing stock, taxonomic richness, and composition) and ecosystem functioning (periphyton productivity and leaf litter decomposition) were assessed. Taxonomic richness and community composition were not affected by exposure to the experimental treatments and there were no significant treatment effects on phytoplankton standing stock, periphyton productivity, total or microbial leaf litter decomposition. Overall, multiple microplastic exposures, crossed with nutrient addition had little impact on the structure and functioning of semi-natural freshwater ecosystems. These findings indicate that the negative impacts of microplastics predicted from species-specific studies may not be readily realised at the ecosystem scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J Marchant
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom.
| | - Ana Martínez Rodríguez
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom
| | - Pascaline Francelle
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom
| | - John Iwan Jones
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom
| | - Pavel Kratina
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom
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32
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Xu H, Li L, Wang Y, Qiu K, Chen S, Zeng J, Liu R, Yang Q, Huang W. Differential physiological response of marine and freshwater microalgae to polystyrene microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130814. [PMID: 36706485 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Effects of microplastics on microalgae have not been compared from different habitat. To answer this question, three marine microalgae species (Chlorella marined, Nannochloropsis oculate, and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) and two freshwater species (Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus) were selected and exposed to the environment relevant concentrations of polystyrene microplastics. The results indicated that microplastics have a significant concentration effect on the growth of microalgae. The attachment of microalgae to microplastics surface and the aggregation of microalgae with each other were observed. Under exposure of microplastics, the photosynthesis of microalgae was inhibited while the antioxidant system was activated, indicating that microplastics had a negative impact on microalgae. At the end of exposure, the oxidative stress status caused by microplastics in marine microalgae were alleviated, but the antioxidant system of freshwater microalgae was still at high levels, indicating a stress response. In addition, integrated biomarker response (IBR) indicated that the effects of microplastics on freshwater microalgae were severer than marine microalgae, which might relate to their differences in removing reactive oxygen species (ROS) effectively and membrane structure. Our study provides a reliable data for understanding the complex effects of microplastics on microalgae, and especially for comparing the differential effects of microplastics among different microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengtao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Li'ang Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; State Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Youji Wang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences at Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; State Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China.
| | - Kecheng Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Siyang Chen
- Zhejiang Ocean Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Hangzhou 310007, China
| | - Jiangning Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Ruijuan Liu
- Zhejiang Ocean Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Hangzhou 310007, China
| | - Qikun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; Key Laboratory of Nearshore Engineering Environment and Ecological Security of Zhejiang Province, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China; State Key Laboratory of Satellite Ocean Environment Dynamics, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Hangzhou 310012, China.
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Pencik O, Molnarova K, Durdakova M, Kolackova M, Klofac D, Kucsera A, Capal P, Svec P, Bytesnikova Z, Richtera L, Brtnický M, Adam V, Huska D. Not so dangerous? PET microplastics toxicity on freshwater microalgae and cyanobacteria. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 329:121628. [PMID: 37059171 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae and cyanobacteria are among the most important primary producers and are responsible for the production of 50-80% of the oxygen on Earth. They can be significantly affected by plastic pollution, as the vast majority of plastic waste ends up in rivers and then the oceans. This research focuses on green microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris), Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii), filamentous cyanobacterium Limnospira (Arthrospira) maxima (L.(A.) maxima) and how they are affected by environmentally relevant PET-MPs (polyethylene-terephtalate microplastics). Manufactured PET-MPs have asymmetric shape, size between 3 and 7 μm and were used in concentrations ranging from 5 mg/L to 80 mg/L. The highest inhibitory rate of growth was found in C. reinhardtii (-24%). Concentration-dependent changes in chlorophyll a composition were found in C. vulgaris and C. reinhardtii, not in L. (A.) maxima. Furthermore, cell damage was detected in all three organisms by CRYO-SEM (shriveling, cell wall disruption), but the cyanobacterium was the least damaged. A PET-fingerprint was detected on the surface of all tested organisms using FTIR, indicating the adherence of PET-MPs. The highest rate of PET-MPs adsorption was detected in L. (A.) maxima. Specifically, characteristic spectra were observed at ∼721, 850, 1100, 1275, 1342, and 1715 cm-1 which are specific for functional groups of PET-MPs. Nitrogen and carbon content significantly increased in L. (A.) maxima under exposure to 80 mg/L due to the PET-MPs adherence and mechanical stress. In all three tested organisms, weak exposure-related ROS generation was detected. In general, cyanobacteria seem to be more resistant to the effects of MPs. However, organisms in the aquatic environment are exposed to MPs over a longer time scale, so it is important to use the present findings for further longer-term experiments on environmentally relevant organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondrej Pencik
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Katarina Molnarova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Durdakova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Kolackova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Klofac
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Attilla Kucsera
- Department of Molecular Biology and Radiobiology, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Capal
- Institute of Experimental Botany, Centre of the Region Hana for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Slechtitelu 241/27, 783 71, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Svec
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Bytesnikova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Richtera
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Brtnický
- Department of Agrochemistry, Soil Science, Microbiology and Plant Nutrition, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Dalibor Huska
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00, Brno, Czech Republic.
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34
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Lu Y, Li MC, Lee J, Liu C, Mei C. Microplastic remediation technologies in water and wastewater treatment processes: Current status and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161618. [PMID: 36649776 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a type of contaminants produced during the use and disposal of plastic products, which are ubiquitous in our lives. With the high specific surface area and strong hydrophobicity, MPs can adsorb various hazardous microorganisms and chemical contaminants from the environment, causing irreversible damage to our humans. It is reported that the MPs have been detected in infant feces and human blood. Therefore, the presence of MPs has posed a significant threat to human health. It is critically essential to develop efficient, scalable and environmentally-friendly methods to remove MPs. Herein, recent advances in the MPs remediation technologies in water and wastewater treatment processes are overviewed. Several approaches, including membrane filtration, adsorption, chemically induced coagulation-flocculation-sedimentation, bioremediation, and advanced oxidation processes are systematically documented. The characteristics, mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of these methods are well discussed and highlighted. Finally, the current challenges and future trends of these methods are proposed, with the aim of facilitating the remediation of MPs in water and wastewater treatment processes in a more efficient, scalable, and environmentally-friendly way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Lu
- Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Mei-Chun Li
- Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China; School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, Shandong 266580, China.
| | - Juhyeon Lee
- College of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Chaozheng Liu
- Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Changtong Mei
- Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
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35
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Jin Y, Li M, Chen F, Wang L, Zhang L, Yang Z, Wang N, Fu J, Yu Y, Cheng X, Wu D. Secondary pollution of microplastic hetero-aggregates after chlorination: Released contaminants rarely re-adsorbed by the second-formed hetero-aggregates. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 445:130523. [PMID: 36473258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In urban waters, microplastics (MPs) usually form hetero-aggregates through adsorption of organics and microbes. However, the effects of hetero-aggregates on water quality are rarely reported. In this study we found that the hetero-aggregates, which accumulated contaminants, were like a "time bomb". Chlorination was able to trigger the "time bomb" through destruction of hetero-aggregates, lysis of microbial cells and elevation of the concentration of low-molecular-mass organics. Thereupon previously adhered organics desorbed from MPs, intracellular metabolites were released from lysed cells, and re-formation of hetero-aggregates was limited. This process rapidly increased the concentration of organics but prevented the re-adsorption of organics, which leads to secondary pollution. Thus, to alleviate the risks of secondary pollution caused by hetero-aggregates, the choice of oxidant species and dose should be optimized based on the characteristics of existent hetero-aggregates when purifying urban waters containing MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jin
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China; Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Minghui Li
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Feiyong Chen
- Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Lin Wang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China; Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Lijie Zhang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China; Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Zhigang Yang
- Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Jie Fu
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Yang Yu
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiang Cheng
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China; Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China.
| | - Daoji Wu
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China; Resources and Environmental Innovation Institute, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, PR China.
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36
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Wang Q, Wang J, Chen H, Zhang Y. Toxicity effects of microplastics and nanoplastics with cadmium on the alga Microcystis aeruginosa. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:17360-17373. [PMID: 36194332 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23278-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The extensive spread of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in the aquatic environment has attracted widespread attention. The toxicity of cadmium (Cd) combined with microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) toward freshwater algae Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa) was investigated to evaluate the environmental behavior of the Cd complexation in fresh water. Cd alone has the highest toxicity to algae. Both MPs and NPs also have a negative effect on the growth of algae as individual components due to their adsorption of nutrients and disruption of the alga's activity in a single MPs/NPs system. Compared with the single system, the toxicity of compound pollution including MPs + Cd and NPs + Cd becomes stronger, which presents a synergistic effect. In the presence of NPs, more extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) appeared, which helped to reduce the toxic effect on the algal cells. Moreover, MPs/NPs + Cd stimulate the production of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) under different treatments. Overall, the aquatic environmental assessment shows potentially elevated risks associated with combined MPs/NPs with Cd, which should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, Anhui, China.
| | - Jinxiaoxue Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, Anhui, China
| | - Huijuan Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, Anhui, China
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, Anhui, China
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Ni Z, Tan L, Wang J, Chen Y, Zhang N, Meng F, Wang J. Toxic effects of pristine and aged polystyrene and their leachate on marine microalgae Skeletonema costatum. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159614. [PMID: 36283517 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The acute toxic effects of pristine and aged polystyrene (P-PS and A-PS) and their leaching solutions (L-PS) on microalgae Skeletonema costatum were investigated by measuring algal density and growth inhibition rate (IR), chlorophyll concentration and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) over 96 h. Total protein (TP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to analyze the oxidative damage to microalgae by microplastics and their leachates. Hydrodynamic diameter of microplastics in seawater, FITR and SEM images were used to study the changes of polystyrene during aging. The interaction of algae cell with microplastics and the cellular ultrastructure changes of cells were analyzed combined with electron microscopy for a comprehensive and systematic understanding on the mechanisms of microplastic toxicity to microalgae. Both high concentration and small size of PS had significant inhibitory effect on the growth of microalgae, and the inhibitory effect was greater with increasing exposure time. The inhibition effect of aged microplastics was more obvious, which was speculated to be caused by the synergistic effect of aged PS itself and leaching solution. The negative effect of leaching solution on microalgae was due to the release of some additives during the aging process. The content of MDA reached the highest value of 54.41 nmol/mgprot in 1.0 μm 50 mg/L A-PS treatment group, and A-PS were found to be more prone to heterogeneous aggregation with algae cells by SEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Ni
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Liju Tan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiayin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yanshan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Fanmeng Meng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiangtao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
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38
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Lu S, Chen J, Wang J, Wu D, Bian H, Jiang H, Sheng L, He C. Toxicological effects and transcriptome mechanisms of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under stress of quinclorac and polystyrene nanoplastics. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 249:114380. [PMID: 36508812 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114380] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The absorption and accumulation of nanoplastics (NPs) by plants is currently attracting considerable attention. NPs also tend to adsorb surrounding organic pollutants, such as pesticides, which can damage plants. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the phytotoxicity of NPs are not sufficiently researched. Therefore, we analyzed the toxicological effects of 50 mg/L polystyrene NPs (PS 50 nm) and 5 mg/L the herbicide quinolinic (QNC) on rice (Oryza sativa L.) using 7-day hydroponic experiments, explaining the corresponding mechanisms by transcriptome analysis. The main conclusion is that all treatments inhibit rice growth and activate the antioxidant level. Compared with CK, the inhibition rates of PS, QNC, and PS+QNC on rice shoot length were 3.95%, 6.68%, and 11.43%, respectively. The gene ontology (GO) term photosynthesis was significantly enriched by QNC, and the combination PS+QNC significantly enriched the GO terms of amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolisms. The chemicals QNC and PS+QNC significantly affected the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) of the MAPK signaling pathway, plant hormone signal transduction, and plant-pathogen interaction. Our findings provide a new understanding of the phytotoxic mechanisms and environmental impacts of the interactions between NPs and pesticides. It also provides insights into the impact of NPs and pesticides on plants in the agricultural system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Jing Chen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Junyuan Wang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Donghui Wu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Hongfeng Bian
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Haibo Jiang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Lianxi Sheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Chunguang He
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China.
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Senousy HH, Khairy HM, El-Sayed HS, Sallam ER, El-Sheikh MA, Elshobary ME. Interactive adverse effects of low-density polyethylene microplastics on marine microalga Chaetoceros calcitrans. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137182. [PMID: 36356803 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is broadly utilized worldwide, increasing more dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the majority ends up in the aquatic environment as microplastics. The influence of polyethylene microplastics (LDPE-MPs) on aquatic ecosystems still needs further investigation, especially on microalgae as typical organisms represented in all aquatic systems and at the base of the trophic chain. Thereby, the biological and toxicity impacts of LDPE-MPs on Chaetoceros calcitrans were examined in this work. The results revealed that LDPE-MPs had a concentration-dependent adverse effect on the growth and performance of C. calcitrans. LDPE-MPs contributed the maximum inhibition rates of 85%, 51.3%, 21.49% and 16.13% on algal growth chlorophyll content, φPSII and Fv/Fm, respectively. The total protein content, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities were significantly increased at 25 mg L-1 LDPE-MPs by 1.37, 3.52, 2.75 and 1.84 folds higher than those of the controls to sustain the adverse effects of LDPE-MPs. Extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) and monosaccharides contents of C. calcitrans were improved under low concentration of LDPE-MPs, which could facilitate the adsorption of MPs particles on the microalgae cell wall. This adsorption caused significant physical damage to the algal cell structure, as observed by SEM. These results suggest that the ecological footprint of MPs may require more attention, particularly due to the continuing breakdown of plastics in the ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda H Senousy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Hanan M Khairy
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Egypt
| | - Heba S El-Sayed
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Egypt
| | - Eman R Sallam
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A El-Sheikh
- Botany & Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mostafa E Elshobary
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt.
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Pan Y, Gao SH, Ge C, Gao Q, Huang S, Kang Y, Luo G, Zhang Z, Fan L, Zhu Y, Wang AJ. Removing microplastics from aquatic environments: A critical review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 13:100222. [PMID: 36483746 PMCID: PMC9722483 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2022.100222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
As one of the typical emerging contaminants, microplastics exist widely in the environment because of their small size and recalcitrance, which has caused various ecological problems. This paper summarizes current adsorption and removal technologies of microplastics in typical aquatic environments, including natural freshwater, marine, drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), and includes abiotic and biotic degradation technologies as one of the removal technologies. Recently, numerous studies have shown that enrichment technologies have been widely used to remove microplastics in natural freshwater environments, DWTPs, and WWTPs. Efficient removal of microplastics via WWTPs is critical to reduce the release to the natural environment as a key connection point to prevent the transfer of microplastics from society to natural water systems. Photocatalytic technology has outstanding pre-degradation effects on microplastics, and the isolated microbial strains or enriched communities can degrade up to 50% or more of pre-processed microplastics. Thus, more research focusing on microplastic degradation could be carried out by combining physical and chemical pretreatment with subsequent microbial biodegradation. In addition, the current recovery technologies of microplastics are introduced in this review. This is incredibly challenging because of the small size and dispersibility of microplastics, and the related technologies still need further development. This paper will provide theoretical support and advice for preventing and controlling the ecological risks mediated by microplastics in the aquatic environment and share recommendations for future research on the removal and recovery of microplastics in various aquatic environments, including natural aquatic environments, DWTPs, and WWTPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Pan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shu-Hong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qun Gao
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Sijing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yuanyuan Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Gaoyang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ziqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lu Fan
- Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongming Zhu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Ai-Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
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Ye T, Yang A, Wang Y, Song N, Wang P, Xu H. Changes of the physicochemical properties of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from Microcystis aeruginosa in response to microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120354. [PMID: 36215775 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems and can significantly influence the growth, aggregation and functions of phytoplankton biomass. However, variations in the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of phytoplankton in terms of compositions and structures in response to MPs were still not reported. In this study, EPS matrix of Microsystis aeruginosa was applied and fractionated into loosely bound EPS (LB-EPS) and tightly bound EPS (TB-EPS) fractions, with the time-dependent changes in response to different concentrations (10, 100 and 500 mg/L) of MPs being explored via using the fluorescence excitation emission matrix coupled with parallel factor (EEM-PARAFAC) and two-dimensional Fourier transform infrared correlation spectroscopy (2D-FTIR-COS) analysis. Results showed that 500 mg/L of MP concentration significantly inhibited Microcystis growth by 30.5% but enhanced EPS secretion. In addition, organic composition in LB-EPS and TB-EPS varied differently in response to increased MP exposure, as the ratio of polysaccharide/protein increased in the TB-EPS but decreased in LB-EPS. Further analysis revealed obvious heterogeneities in organic component variations in response to MPs, as the C-O functional groups and glycosidic bonds in the TB-EPS preferentially responded, which lead to the domination of polysaccharides and humus substances; while the carbonyl, carboxyl and amino functional groups in the LB-EPS exhibited a preferential response, which caused the enhanced percentage of the tryptophan-like proteins. In addition to organic compositions, the aromaticity, hydrophobicity and humification in the LB-EPS fraction increased with enhanced MP exposure, which, as a result, may influence the ecotoxicological risk of MPs. Therefore, Microcystis can dynamically adjust not only the EPS contents but also the compositions in response to MPs exposure. The results can improve our understanding on the eco-physiological impact of phytoplankton-MP interaction in aquatic environment, and indicate that the dose-dependent and long-term effects of MPs on phytoplankton should be considered in future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianran Ye
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, China
| | - Ao Yang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, China
| | - Yulai Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, China
| | - Na Song
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Ping Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, 243002, China
| | - Huacheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Alazaiza MYD, Albahnasawi A, Ahmad Z, Bashir MJK, Al-Wahaibi T, Abujazar MSS, Abu Amr SS, Nassani DE. Potential use of algae for the bioremediation of different types of wastewater and contaminants: Production of bioproducts and biofuel for green circular economy. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 324:116415. [PMID: 36206653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Remediation by algae is a very effective strategy for avoiding the use of costly, environmentally harmful chemicals in wastewater treatment. Recently, industries based on biomass, especially the bioenergy sector, are getting increasing attention due to their environmental acceptability. However, their practical application is still limited due to the growing cost of raw materials such as algal biomass, harvesting and processing limitations. Potential use of algal biomass includes nutrients recovery, heavy metals removal, COD, BOD, coliforms, and other disease-causing pathogens reduction and production of bioenergy and valuable products. However, the production of algal biomass using the variable composition of different wastewater streams as a source of growing medium and the application of treated water for subsequent use in agriculture for irrigation has remained a challenging task. The present review highlights and discusses the potential role of algae in removing beneficial nutrients from different wastewater streams with complex chemical compositions as a biorefinery concept and subsequent use of produced algal biomass for bioenergy and bioactive compounds. Moreover, challenges in producing algal biomass using various wastewater streams and ways to alleviate the stress caused by the toxic and high concentrations of nutrients in the wastewater stream have been discussed in detail. The technology will be economically feasible and publicly accepted by reducing the cost of algal biomass production and reducing the loaded or attached concentration of micropollutants and pathogenic microorganisms. Algal strain improvement, consortium development, biofilm formation, building an advanced cultivation reactor system, biorefinery concept development, and life-cycle assessment are all possible options for attaining a sustainable solution for sustainable biofuel production. Furthermore, producing valuable compounds, including pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and pigment contents generated from algal biomass during biofuel production, could also help reduce the cost of wastewater management by microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motasem Y D Alazaiza
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, A'Sharqiyah University, 400, Ibra, Oman.
| | - Ahmed Albahnasawi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Gebze Technical University, 41400, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Zulfiqar Ahmad
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Mohammed J K Bashir
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT), Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, 31900, Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Talal Al-Wahaibi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, A'Sharqiyah University, 400, Ibra, Oman
| | | | - Salem S Abu Amr
- International College of Engineering and Management, P.O. Box 2511, C.P.O Seeb, P.C. 111, Oman
| | - Dia Eddin Nassani
- Department of Civil Engineering, Hasan Kalyoncu University, 27500, Gaziantep, Turkey
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43
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Manzi HP, Abou-Shanab RAI, Jeon BH, Wang J, Salama ES. Algae: a frontline photosynthetic organism in the microplastic catastrophe. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 27:1159-1172. [PMID: 35792026 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recalcitrancy in microplastics (MPs) contributes to white pollution. Bioremediation can remove MPs and facilitate environmental sustainability. Although recent studies have been conducted on the interaction of algae and MPs, the role of algae in MP removal with the simultaneous implementation of 'omics studies has not yet been discussed. Here, we review the adverse effects of MPs on the environment and possible approaches to remove them from the aquatic environment by using algae. We highlight the mechanism of MP biodegradation, the algal species that have been used, and how these are affected by MPs. We propose that algomics, characterization of biodegrading enzymes, and genetic engineering could be effective strategies for optimizing MP degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habasi Patrick Manzi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou City, 730000, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - Reda A I Abou-Shanab
- College of Biological Sciences, BioTechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN, USA
| | - Byong-Hun Jeon
- Department of Earth Resources & Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222-Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, South Korea
| | - Junling Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou City, 730000, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - El-Sayed Salama
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou City, 730000, Gansu Province, PR China.
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Liu Q, Wu H, Chen J, Guo B, Zhao X, Lin H, Li W, Zhao X, Lv S, Huang C. Adsorption mechanism of trace heavy metals on microplastics and simulating their effect on microalgae in river. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113777. [PMID: 35780846 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and heavy-metal contamination in freshwater is an increasing concern. Fe, Mn, Pb, Zn, Cr, and Cd are common heavy metals that can easily flow into rivers causing water pollution. Microplastics act as carriers for heavy metals and increase the transport of contaminants in freshwater systems. We investigated the adsorption mechanisms of three kinds of MPs having similar particle sizes, namely polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with respect to trace heavy metals of Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd under different temperature and salinity conditions. The reaction kinetics of the adsorption of different trace heavy metals on different MPs were consistent with both the quasi primary and quasi secondary kinetic models, indicating the complexity of heavy metal adsorption by MPs. The adsorption rate of heavy metal on MPs was mainly controlled by intra-particle diffusion, and the isotherm model indicated that the adsorption of Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd by MPs occurred in the form of monolayer physical adsorption. Additionally, an increase in temperature and decrease in salinity were favourable to improve the affinity of MPs toward heavy metals (through adsorption). Zeta potential measurements and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses indicated that electrostatic force interaction was the main mechanism of the adsorption process; oxygen-containing functional groups, π-π interaction, and halogen bonds played important roles in the process of adsorption. Furthermore, the growth inhibition and oxidative stress of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris (GY-D27) due to PP, PS, and PVC were analysed; notably, MPs or Pb inhibited the growth of Chlorella vulgaris. However, the reduced toxicity to Chlorella vulgaris, with respect to a mixture of Pb and MPs, was confirmed using superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities. Our results can be applied for the risk assessment of heavy metals and MPs in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Haowen Wu
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Jiajiao Chen
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Biaohu Guo
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Xiufang Zhao
- Ecological Science Institute, LingNan Eco & Culture-Tourism Co., Ltd., Dongguan, 523125, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Wei Li
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Sihao Lv
- Research Center for Eco-environmental Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Cong Huang
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, China.
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Priya AK, Jalil AA, Vadivel S, Dutta K, Rajendran S, Fujii M, Soto-Moscoso M. Heavy metal remediation from wastewater using microalgae: Recent advances and future trends. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 305:135375. [PMID: 35738200 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae-based wastewater treatment has previously been carried out in huge waste stabilization ponds. Microalgae, which can absorb carbon dioxide while reusing nutrients from sewage, has recently emerged as a new trend in the wastewater treatment business. Microalgae farming is thought to be a potential match for the modern world's energy strategy, which emphasizes low-cost and environmentally benign alternatives. Microalgae are being used to treat wastewater and make useful products. Microalgae, for example, is a promising renewable resource for producing biomass from wastewater nutrients because of its quick growth rate, short life span, and high carbon dioxide utilization efficacy. Microalgae-based bioremediation has grown in importance in the treatment of numerous types of wastewater in recent years. This solar-powered wastewater treatment technology has huge potential. However, there are still issues to be resolved in terms of land requirements, as well as the process's ecological feasibility and long-term viability, before these systems can be widely adopted. Due to cost and the need for a faultless downstream process, it is difficult to deploy this technology on a large scale. Other recent breakthroughs in wastewater microalgae farming have been investigated, such as how varied pressures affect microalgae growth and quality, as well as the number of high-value components produced. In this review, the future of this biotechnology has also been examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Priya
- Department of Civil Engineering, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore, 641027, India
| | - A A Jalil
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Centre of Hydrogen Energy, Institute of Future Energy, 81310, UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Sethumathavan Vadivel
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo, 152-8552, Japan
| | - Kingshuk Dutta
- Advanced Polymer Design and Development Research Laboratory (APDDRL), School for Advanced Research in Petrochemicals (SARP), Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology (CIPET), Bengaluru, 562149, India
| | - Saravanan Rajendran
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Tarapacá, Avda. General Velásquez, 1775, Arica, Chile.
| | - Manabu Fujii
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo, 152-8552, Japan
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Jiao Y, Zhu Y, Chen M, Wan L, Zhao Y, Gao J, Liao M, Tian X. The humic acid-like substances released from Microcystis aeruginosa contribute to defending against smaller-sized microplastics. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:135034. [PMID: 35609660 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in freshwater ecosystems, but knowledge of their effects on extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) produced by algae is poorly understood. The components in specific EPS fractions of Microcystis respond when exposed to MPs is also still unclear. In this study, the responses of Microcystis aeruginosa under polystyrene (PS) microplastic exposure were studied over 17 days of cultivation, using 0.1 μm and 1.0 μm sized PS at three concentration gradients (1, 10 and 100 mg/L). Results indicate that algal growth significantly increased using the 0.1 and 1.0 μm PS at a high concentration (100 mg/L) on day 17, with growth rates of 74.71% ± 0.94% and 35.87% ± 1.23%, respectively. All tested PS had a maximum inhibitory effect on the photosynthesis on day 5, but the inhibition of photosynthetic activity by 0.1 μm PS alleviated after 13 days of exposure, indicating recovery of microalgae from the toxic environment. The two PS sizes at 100 mg/L concentration triggered EPS release in the latter stage of the experiment; meanwhile, fluorescence EEM analysis showed that smaller-sized PS (0.1 μm) at various doses noticeably increased humic acid-like substances in tightly bound EPS (TB-EPS) fractions on day 17. Our findings showed that EPS release and humic acid-like substances secretion of Microcystis likely can resist MPs exposure. The results provide new insights into the toxicity mechanism of MPs on freshwater microalgae, as well as understanding the ecological risks of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiying Jiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China; Innovation Demonstration Base of Ecological Environment Geotechnical and Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Lakes, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China.
| | - Yongjie Zhu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
| | - Mo Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Regional Development and Environmental Response, Faculty of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Liang Wan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China; Innovation Demonstration Base of Ecological Environment Geotechnical and Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Lakes, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
| | - Yijun Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China; Innovation Demonstration Base of Ecological Environment Geotechnical and Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Lakes, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China; Innovation Demonstration Base of Ecological Environment Geotechnical and Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Lakes, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
| | - Mingjun Liao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China; Innovation Demonstration Base of Ecological Environment Geotechnical and Ecological Restoration of Rivers and Lakes, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
| | - Xiaofang Tian
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Ecological Restoration for River-Lakes and Algal Utilization, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
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47
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Algal degradation of microplastic from the environment: Mechanism, challenges, and future prospects. ALGAL RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2022.102848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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48
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Le VV, Srivastava A, Ko SR, Ahn CY, Oh HM. Microcystis colony formation: Extracellular polymeric substance, associated microorganisms, and its application. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 360:127610. [PMID: 35840029 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microcystis sp., amongst the most prevalent bloom-forming cyanobacteria, is typically found as a colonial form with multiple microorganisms embedded in the mucilage known as extracellular polymeric substance. The colony-forming ability of Microcystis has been thoroughly investigated, as has the connection between Microcystis and other microorganisms, which is crucial for colony development. The following are the key subjects to comprehend Microcystis bloom in depth: 1) key issues related to the Microcystis bloom, 2) features and functions of extracellular polymeric substance, as well as diversity of associated microorganisms, and 3) applications of Microcystis-microorganisms interaction including bloom control, polluted water bioremediation, and bioactive compound production. Future research possibilities and recommendations regarding Microcystis-microorganism interactions and their significance in Microcystis colony formation are also explored. More information on such interactions, as well as the mechanism of Microcystis colony formation, can bring new insights into cyanobacterial bloom regulation and a better understanding of the aquatic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ve Van Le
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Biotechnology, KRIBB School of Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Ankita Srivastava
- Department of Botany, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar 272202, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - So-Ra Ko
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Chi-Yong Ahn
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Biotechnology, KRIBB School of Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Mock Oh
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Biotechnology, KRIBB School of Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea.
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Gongi W, Touzi H, Sadly I, Ben ouada H, Tamarin O, Ben ouada H. A Novel Impedimetric Sensor Based on Cyanobacterial Extracellular Polymeric Substances for Microplastics Detection. JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT 2022; 30:4738-4748. [PMID: 36032357 PMCID: PMC9392654 DOI: 10.1007/s10924-022-02555-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Cyanobacterial extracellular polymeric substances "EPS" have attracted intensive concern in biomedicine and food. Nevertheless, the use of those polymers as a sensor coating material has not yet been investigated mainly for microplastic detection. This study focuses on the application of EPS as a sensitive membrane deposited on a gold electrode and investigated with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to detect four types of microplastics with a size range of 0.1 µm to 1 mm. The surface properties of this impedimetric sensor were investigated by Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray spectroscopy and, showed a high homogenous structure with the presence of several functional groups. The measurements showed a high homogenous structure with the presence of several functional groups. The EPS-based sensor could detect the four tested microplastics with a low limit of detection of 10-11 M. It is the first report focusing on EPS extracted from cyanobacteria that could be a new quantification method for low concentrations of microplastics. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10924-022-02555-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wejdene Gongi
- Laboratory of Blue Biotechnology & Aquatic Bioproducts, National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
- University of French Guiana, Espace-Dev, UMR 228, 97300 Cayenne, France
| | - Hassen Touzi
- Laboratoire des Interfaces et Matériaux Avancés, Faculté des Sciences de Monastir, Monastir University, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Idris Sadly
- University of French Guiana, Espace-Dev, UMR 228, 97300 Cayenne, France
| | - Hafedh Ben ouada
- Laboratoire des Interfaces et Matériaux Avancés, Faculté des Sciences de Monastir, Monastir University, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ollivier Tamarin
- University of French Guiana, Espace-Dev, UMR 228, 97300 Cayenne, France
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, IMS, UMR 5218, 33400 Talence, France
| | - Hatem Ben ouada
- Laboratory of Blue Biotechnology & Aquatic Bioproducts, National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
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Faria M, Cunha C, Gomes M, Mendonça I, Kaufmann M, Ferreira A, Cordeiro N. Bacterial cellulose biopolymers: The sustainable solution to water-polluting microplastics. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 222:118952. [PMID: 35964508 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has become one of our time's most consequential issue. These micropolymeric particles are ubiquitously distributed across all natural and urban ecosystems. Current filtration systems in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) rely on non-biodegradable fossil-based polymeric filters whose maintenance procedures are environmentally damaging and unsustainable. Following the need to develop sustainable filtration frameworks for MPs water removal, years of R&D lead to the conception of bacterial cellulose (BC) biopolymers. These bacterial-based naturally secreted polymers display unique features for biotechnological applications, such as straightforward production, large surface areas, nanoporous structures, biodegradability, and utilitarian circularity. Diligently, techniques such as flow cytometry, scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy were used to evaluate the feasibility and characterise the removal dynamics of highly concentrated MPs-polluted water by BC biopolymers. Results show that BC biopolymers display removal efficiencies of MPs of up to 99%, maintaining high performance for several continuous cycles. The polymer's characterisation showed that MPs were both adsorbed and incorporated in the 3D nanofibrillar network. The use of more economically- and logistics-favourable dried BC biopolymers preserves their physicochemical properties while maintaining high efficiency (93-96%). These polymers exhibited exceptional structural preservation, conserving a high water uptake capacity which drives microparticle retention. In sum, this study provides clear evidence that BC biopolymers are high performing, multifaceted and genuinely sustainable/circular alternatives to synthetic water treatment MPs-removal technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Faria
- LB3-Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - César Cunha
- LB3-Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal
| | - Madalena Gomes
- LB3-Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal
| | - Ivana Mendonça
- LB3-Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal
| | - Manfred Kaufmann
- CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal; Marine Biology Station of Funchal, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Madeira, Portugal
| | - Artur Ferreira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Águeda School of Technology and Management, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Nereida Cordeiro
- LB3-Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal.
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