1
|
Zhang Y, Ju J, Li M, Ma Z, Lu W, Yang H. Dose-dependent effects of polystyrene nanoplastics on growth, photosynthesis, and astaxanthin synthesis in Haematococcus pluvialis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 359:124574. [PMID: 39029865 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Microalgae play an important role in aquatic ecosystems, but the widespread presence of micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) poses significant threats to them. Haematococcus pluvialis is well-known for its ability to produce the antioxidant astaxanthin when it experiences stress from environmental conditions. Here we examined the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L on H. pluvialis over an 18-day period. Our results show that PS-NPs caused a significant, dose-dependent inhibition of H. pluvialis growth and a reduction in photosynthesis. Furthermore, PS-NPs severely damaged the morphology of H. pluvialis, leading to cell shrinkage, collapse, content release, and aggregation. Additionally, PS-NPs induced a dose-dependent increase in soluble protein content and a decrease in the production of extracellular polymeric substances. These findings indicate that PS-NPs has the potential to adversely affect both the physiology and morphology of H. pluvialis. An increase in reactive oxygen species and antioxidant enzyme activities was also observed, suggesting an oxidative stress response to PS-NPs exposure. Notably, the synthesis of astaxanthin, which is crucial for H. pluvialis's survival under stress, was significantly inhibited in a dose-dependent manner under strong light conditions, along with the down-regulation of genes involved in the astaxanthin biosynthesis pathway. This suggests that PS-NPs exposure reduces H. pluvialis's ability to survive under adverse conditions. This study enhances our understanding of the toxic effects of PS-NPs on microalgae and underscores the urgent need for measures to mitigate MNP pollution to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
| | - Jian Ju
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Zhuyi Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Wenyan Lu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Hui Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Duan H, Pan N, Shao X, Wang X, Ma Y, Liu J, Han X, Sui L. Amino-modified polystyrene nanoplastics induced multiple response of Artemia hemocytes. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 283:109974. [PMID: 38972623 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene polymers cause severe toxicity to aquatic animals. However, the process and mechanisms of innate immunity of invertebrates living at the bottom of the food chain to these pollutants remain unclear. In this study, the blood system responses of zooplankton Artemia were assessed through in vivo and in vitro exposure to amino-modified polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NH2 NPs). The results indicated that the LC50 values of PS-NH2 NPs were 1.09 μg·mL-1 over 48 h and 0.42 μg·mL-1 over 7 d. Based on the five hemocyte subpopulations identified in Artemia, in vitro exposure assays revealed that phagocytosis was performed by plasmocytes and granulocytes with phagocytic rate of 22.64 %. TEM analysis further showed that PS-NH2 NPs caused cytoplasm vacuolization, swollen mitochondria, and lipid processing disorder. Gene expression pattern results demonstrated that Spatzle, Tollip, Hsp70, Hsp90, Casp8, API5and Pxn were significantly upregulated upon acute and chronic exposure (p < 0.05), while chronic exposure could induce significantly upregulation of ProPO (p < 0.05). Moreover, PS-NH2 NPs exposure remarkably varied the hemolymph microbiota and hemogram, particularly by increasing the proportion of adipohemocytes and phagocytes (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that PS-NH2 NPs induce different responses in Artemia hemocyte, as primarily reflected by phagocytic processes, expression of immune and apoptosis relating genes, cell fates, hemogram and hemolymph microbiota variations. These findings support the possibility of using Artemia hemocytes as bioindicator to estimate nanoplastics pollution, thus contributing to hematological toxicity research in response to nanoplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hu Duan
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Namin Pan
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuanxuan Shao
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuehui Wang
- Tianjin Fisheries Research Institute, Tianjin 300221, China
| | - Yingchao Ma
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Jiayi Liu
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuekai Han
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Liying Sui
- Asian Regional Artemia Reference Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry, College of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Chemistry and Food Technology (TUST), Ministry of Education Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wu T, Ding J, Zhao YJ, Ding L, Zang Y, Sun HJ, Zhong L, Pang JW, Li Y, Ren NQ, Yang SS. Microplastics shaped performance, microbial ecology and community assembly in simultaneous nitrification, denitrification and phosphorus removal process. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172651. [PMID: 38653406 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172651] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The widespread use of microplastics (MPs) has led to an increase in their discharge to wastewater treatment plants. However, the knowledge of impact of MPs on macro-performance and micro-ecology in simultaneous nitrification, denitrification, and phosphorus removal (SNDPR) systems is limited, hampering the understanding of potential risks posed by MPs. This study firstly comprehensively investigated the performance, species interactions, and community assembly under polystyrene (PS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) exposure in SNDPR systems. The results showed under PS (1, 10 mg/L) and PVC (1, 10 mg/L) exposure, total nitrogen removal was reduced by 3.38-10.15 %. PS and PVC restrained the specific rates of nitrite and nitrate reduction (SNIRR, SNRR), as well as the activities of nitrite and nitrate reductase enzymes (NIR, NR). The specific ammonia oxidation rate (SAOR) and activity of ammonia oxidase enzyme (AMO) were reduced only at 10 mg/L PVC. PS and PVC enhanced the size of co-occurrence networks, niche breadth, and number of key species while decreasing microbial cooperation by 5.85-13.48 %. Heterogeneous selection dominated microbial community assembly, and PS and PVC strengthened the contribution of stochastic processes. PICRUSt prediction further revealed some important pathways were blocked by PS and PVC. Together, the reduced TN removal under PS and PVC exposure can be attributed to the inhibition of SAOR, SNRR, and SNIRR, the restrained activities of NIR, NR, and AMO, the changes in species interactions and community assembly mechanisms, and the suppression of some essential metabolic pathways. This paper offers a new perspective on comprehending the effects of MPs on SNDPR systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Ying-Jun Zhao
- Zhe Jiang University of Technology Engineering Design Group CO., Ltd, China
| | - Lan Ding
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Yani Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Han-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Le Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, CECEP Digital Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100096, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li Y, Quan L, Li J, Zhang Z, Lv J, Fu C, Chen Z. The role of microstructure of extracellular proteins in dewaterability of alkaline pretreatment sludge during bioleaching. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 244:117969. [PMID: 38109956 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117969] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Alkaline pre-treatment is known to enhance the acid production efficiency of sludge but adversely affects its dewatering performance. In this study, the improvement of sludge dewaterability by a novel bioleaching system with inoculating domesticated acidified sludge (AS) and its underlying mechanism were investigated. The results showed that although the addition of Fe2+ and the reduction of pH improved the dewatering performance of sludge, their effects were inferior to that of AS + Fe. The addition of AS and Fe2+ significantly reduced the specific resistance to filtration and capillary suction time of the sludge by 98.6 % and 95.5 %, respectively. This improvement in dewatering performance was achieved through the combined actions of bio-acidification, bio-oxidation, and bio-flocculation. Remarkably, under alkaline pH, microorganisms in AS remained active, leading to the formation of iron-based bioflocculants, along with a rapid pH decrease. These bioflocculants, in combination with protein (PN) in tightly bound extracellular polymeric substances (TB-EPS) through amide bonding, transformed TB-EPS from extractable to non-extractable form, reducing PN content from 12.1 mg g-1DS to 5.09 mg g-1DS and altering the protein's secondary structure. Consequently, the gel-like TB-EPS matrix effectively broke down, releasing cellular water and significantly enhancing sludge dewaterability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunbei Li
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China.
| | - Lijun Quan
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China
| | - Jingyu Li
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China
| | - Zhiwen Zhang
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China
| | - Jinghua Lv
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China
| | - Chunyan Fu
- School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhang J, Li T, Tao S, Shen M. Microplastic pollution interaction with disinfectant resistance genes: research progress, environmental impacts, and potential threats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:16241-16255. [PMID: 38340302 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32225-0] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The consumption of disposable plastic products and disinfectants has surged during the global COVID-19 pandemic, as they play a vital role in effectively preventing and controlling the spread of the virus. However, microplastic pollution and the excessive or improper use of disinfectants contribute to the increased environmental tolerance of microorganisms. Microplastics play a crucial role as vectors for microorganisms and plankton, facilitating energy transfer and horizontal gene exchange. The increase in the use of disinfectants has become a driving force for the growth of disinfectant resistant bacteria (DRB). A large number of microorganisms can have intense gene exchange, such as plasmid loss and capture, phage transduction, and cell fusion. The reproduction and diffusion rate of DRB in the environment is significantly higher than that of ordinary microorganisms, which will greatly increase the environmental tolerance of DRB. Unfortunately, there is still a huge knowledge gap in the interaction between microplastics and disinfectant resistance genes (DRGs). Accordingly, it is critical to comprehensively summarize the formation and transmission routes of DRGs on microplastics to address the problem. This paper systematically analyzed the process and mechanisms of DRGs formed by microbes. The interaction between microplastics and DRGs and the contribution of microplastic on the diffusion and spread of DRGs were expounded. The potential threats to the ecological environment and human health were also discussed. Additionally, some challenges and future priorities were also proposed with a view to providing useful basis for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Zhang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhao Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiyu Tao
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China
| | - Maocai Shen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui, 243002, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Du T, Meng R, Qian L, Wang Z, Li T, Wu L. Formation of extracellular polymeric substances corona on TiO 2 nanoparticles: Roles of crystalline phase and exposed facets. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 249:120990. [PMID: 38086209 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120990] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) in the environment can interact with macromolecules in the surrounding environment to form eco-corona on their surfaces, which in turn affects the environmental fate and toxicity of nanoparticles. Wastewater treatment plants containing large amounts of microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are an important source of NPs into the environment, where the formation of EPS coronas on NPs is critical. However, it remains unclear how the crystalline phase and exposed facets, which are intrinsic properties of NPs, affect the formation of EPS coronas on NPs. This study investigated the formation of EPS corona on three TiO2 NPs (representing the most widely used engineered NPs) with different crystalline phases and exposed facets. The protein type and abundance in EPS coronas on TiO2 NPs varied depending on the crystalline phase and exposed facets. Anatase with {101} facets and {001} facets preferred to adsorb proteins with lower molecular weights and higher H-bonding relevant amino acids, respectively, while EPS corona on rutile with {110} facets had proteins with higher hydrophobicity. In addition, the selective adsorption of proteins was primarily determined by steric hindrance, hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic interaction between TiO2 NPs and proteins, which were affected by changes in aggregation state, surface hydroxyl density, and hydrophobicity of TiO2 NPs induced by crystalline phase and exposed facets. Moreover, crystalline phase and exposed facets-induced EPS corona changes altered the aggregation state and oxidation potential of TiO2-EPS corona complexes. These findings emphasize the important role of crystalline phase and exposed facets in the environmental behavior of nanoparticles and may provide insights into the safe design of nanoparticles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Du
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Ru Meng
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China; School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Liwen Qian
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Ziyan Wang
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tong Li
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Lijun Wu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo Y, Tang N, Lu L, Li N, Hu T, Guo J, Zhang J, Zeng Z, Liang J. Aggregation behavior of polystyrene nanoplastics: Role of surface functional groups and protein and electrolyte variation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 350:140998. [PMID: 38142881 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140998] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Aggregation kinetics of plastics are affected by the surface functional groups and exposure orders (electrolyte and protein) with kinds of mechanisms in aquatic environment. This study investigates the aggregation of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) with varying surface functional groups in the presence of common electrolytes (NaCl, CaCl2, Na2SO4) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). It also examines the impact of different exposure orders, namely BSA + NaCl (adding them together), BSA → NaCl (adding BSA firstly and then NaCl), and NaCl → BSA (adding NaCl firstly and then BSA), on PSNPs aggregation. The presence of BSA decreased the critical coagulation concentration in NaCl (CCCNa+) of the non-modified PS-Bare from 222.17 to 142.81 mM (35.72%), but increased that of the carboxyl-modified PS-COOH from 157.34 to 160.03 mM (1.71%). This might be ascribed to the thicker absorbed layer of BSA onto the PS-Bare surface, known from Ohshima's soft particle theory. Their aggregation in CaCl2 was both increased because of Ca2+ bridging. Different from the monotonous effects of BSA on PS-Bare and PS-COOH, BSA initially facilitated PS-NH2 aggregation via patch-charge attraction, then inhibited it at higher salt levels through steric repulsion. Furthermore, exposure orders had no significant effect on PS-Bare and PS-COOH, but had a NaCl concentration-dependent impact on PS-NH2. At the low NaCl concentrations (10 and 100 mM), no obvious influence could be observed. While, at 300 mM NaCl, the high concentrations of BSA could not totally stabilize the salt-induced aggregates in NaCl → BSA, but could achieve it in the other two orders. These might be attributed to the electrical double layer compression by NaCl, "patch-charge" force and steric hindrance by BSA. These experimental findings shed light on the potential fate and transport of nanoparticles in aquatic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Guo
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Ning Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Lan Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Na Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Tingting Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Jiayin Guo
- School of Resources and Environment, Hunan University of Technology and Business, Changsha 410205, PR China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Jie Liang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lomboni DJ, Ozgun A, de Medeiros TV, Staines W, Naccache R, Woulfe J, Variola F. Electroconductive Collagen-Carbon Nanodots Nanocomposite Elicits Neurite Outgrowth, Supports Neurogenic Differentiation and Accelerates Electrophysiological Maturation of Neural Progenitor Spheroids. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301894. [PMID: 37922888 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal disorders are characterized by the loss of functional neurons and disrupted neuroanatomical connectivity, severely impacting the quality of life of patients. This study investigates a novel electroconductive nanocomposite consisting of glycine-derived carbon nanodots (GlyCNDs) incorporated into a collagen matrix and validates its beneficial physicochemical and electro-active cueing to relevant cells. To this end, this work employs mouse induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural progenitor (NP) spheroids. The findings reveal that the nanocomposite markedly augmented neuronal differentiation in NP spheroids and stimulate neuritogenesis. In addition, this work demonstrates that the biomaterial-driven enhancements of the cellular response ultimately contribute to the development of highly integrated and functional neural networks. Lastly, acute dizocilpine (MK-801) treatment provides new evidence for a direct interaction between collagen-bound GlyCNDs and postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, thereby suggesting a potential mechanism underlying the observed cellular events. In summary, the findings establish a foundation for the development of a new nanocomposite resulting from the integration of carbon nanomaterials within a clinically approved hydrogel, toward an effective biomaterial-based strategy for addressing neuronal disorders by restoring damaged/lost neurons and supporting the reestablishment of neuroanatomical connectivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Lomboni
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Alp Ozgun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Tayline V de Medeiros
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - William Staines
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Rafik Naccache
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Fabio Variola
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu X, Fang L, Yan X, Gardea-Torresdey JL, Gao Y, Zhou X, Yan B. Surface functional groups and biofilm formation on microplastics: Environmental implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166585. [PMID: 37643702 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contamination is becoming a significant environmental issue, as the widespread omnipresence of MPs can cause many adverse consequences for both ecological systems and humans. Contrary to what is commonly thought, the toxicity-inducing MPs are not the original pristine plastics; rather, they are completely transformed through various surface functional groups and aggressive biofilm formation on MPs via aging or weathering processes. Therefore, understanding the impacts of MPs' surface functional groups and biofilm formation on biogeochemical processes, such as environmental fate, transport, and toxicity, is crucial. In this review, we present a comprehensive summary of the distinctive impact that surface functional groups and biofilm formation of MPs have on their significant biogeochemical behavior in various environmental media, as well as their toxicity and biological effects. We place emphasis on the role of surface functional groups and biofilm formation as a means of influencing the biogeochemical processes of MPs. This includes their effects on pollutant fate and element cycling, which in turn impacts the aggregation, transport, and toxicity of MPs. Ultimately, future research studies and tactics are needed to improve our understanding of the biogeochemical processes that are influenced by the surface functional groups and biofilm formation of MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xigui Liu
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Liping Fang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-Environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Xiliang Yan
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jorge L Gardea-Torresdey
- University of Texas at El Paso, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhou
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Bing Yan
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wei S, Zeng F, Zhou Y, Zhao J, Wang H, Gao R, Liang W. Phototransformation of extracellular polymeric substances in activated sludge and their interaction with microplastics. RSC Adv 2023; 13:26574-26580. [PMID: 37674486 PMCID: PMC10478482 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra04027e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Substantial amounts of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are present in sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), and EPS can significantly affect the fate, bioavailability, and toxicity of microplastics (MPs) that coexist in the effluent, however, the mechanism of action between EPS and microplastics remains unclear. In addition, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection is indispensable in the wastewater treatment process in WWTP, which can significantly affect the characteristics of EPS. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the photochemical characteristics of EPS and the effect on binding MPs. In this study, using multispectral technology and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy analysis, indicates that the molecular weight and aromaticity of EPS after phototransformation were reduced. The results showed that the adsorption of EPS on PSMPs was in the order of TB-EPS > LB-EPS > S-EPS, which was positively correlated with the SUVA254, but negatively correlated with O/C of EPS. This indicates that the main adsorption mechanisms of PSMPs on EPS were π-π and hydrophobicity. The adsorption capacity of S-EPS, LB-EPS and TB-EPS to PSMPs decreased with the increasing of illumination time. After phototransformation, the adsorption sensitivity and reaction sequence of EPS and PSMPs did not change much. This research provides a theoretical basis for understanding the photochemical transformation of extracellular polymers and the morphology and migration of microplastics in sewage treatment, and evaluating the impact of microplastics on ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuyin Wei
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Feng Zeng
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Yingyue Zhou
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Jiawei Zhao
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Rui Gao
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| | - Weiqian Liang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou 510275 China +8620-84114133
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang H, Qiu C, Bian S, Zheng L, Chen Y, Song Y, Fang C. The effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on nitrogen removal, extracellular polymeric substances and microbial community in sequencing batch reactor. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 379:129001. [PMID: 37011839 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants can be nanoplastics (NPs) and microplastics (MPs) sinks and sources. The effects of NPs and MPs on nitrogen removal and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) during activated sludge process need further investigation. Results showed that polystyrene NPs (NPS) and 100 mg/L polystyrene MPs (MPS) decreased the specific nitrate reduction rate, resulting in nitrate accumulation. The negative effects on functional genes involved in denitrification (narG, napA, nirS and nosZ) were the main mechanism. NPS stimulated EPS secretion, but MPS inhibited it. NPS and MPS increased the ratio of protein to polysaccharide except for 10 mg/L MPS and changed the secondary structure of protein in EPS, affecting flocculation ability of activated sludge. The changes of microbial abundance in activated sludge could be the main factor to the alterations of EPS and nitrogen removal. These results may facilitate understanding the impacts of NPs and MPs on wastewater treatment processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Qiu
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shaochen Bian
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongmin Chen
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yali Song
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Chengran Fang
- College of Civil Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Huang S, Zhang B, Zhao Z, Yang C, Zhang B, Cui F, Lens PNL, Shi W. Metagenomic analysis reveals the responses of microbial communities and nitrogen metabolic pathways to polystyrene micro(nano)plastics in activated sludge systems. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 241:120161. [PMID: 37276653 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are prevalent in sewage and pose a potential threat to nitrogen biotransformation in wastewater treatment systems. However, investigations on how MPs and NPs affect the microbial nitrogen conversion and metabolism of the activated sludge are still scanty. Herein, the responses of microbiomes and functional genes to polystyrene MPs and NPs in activated sludge systems were investigated by metagenomic analysis. Results indicated that 1 mg/L MPs and NPs had marginal impacts on the nitrogen removal performance of the activated sludge systems, whereas high concentrations of MPs and NPs (20 and 100 mg/L) decreased the total nitrogen removal efficiency (13.4%-30.6%) by suppressing the nitrogen transformation processes. Excessive reactive oxygen species induced by MPs and NPs caused cytotoxicity, as evidenced by impaired cytomembranes and decreased bioactivity. Metagenomic analysis revealed that MPs and NPs diminished the abundance of denitrifiers (e.g. Mesorhizobium, Rhodobacter and Thauera), and concurrently reduced the abundance of functional genes (e.g. napA, napB and nirS) encoding for key enzymes involved in the nitrogen transformations, as well as the genes (e.g. mdh) related to the electron donor production, thereby declining the nitrogen removal efficiency. Network analysis further clarified the attenuate association between denitrifiers and denitrification-related genes in the plastic-exposed systems, elucidating that MPs and NPs restrained the nitrogen removal by inhibiting the contributions of microorganisms to nitrogen transformation processes. This study provides vital insights into the responses of the microbial community structure and nitrogen conversion processes to micro(nano)plastics disturbance in activated sludge systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuchang Huang
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Chun Yang
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- National Research Base of Intelligent Manufacturing Service, Chongqing Technology and Business University, Chongqing 400067, China
| | - Fuyi Cui
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Piet N L Lens
- UNESCO-IHE, Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2601, DA Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Wenxin Shi
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gao H, Liu C, Wang H, Shen H. Raman spectra characterization of size-dependent aggregation and dispersion of polystyrene particles in aquatic environments. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 333:138939. [PMID: 37182713 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Aqueous environments are generally thought to be a source of pooling and re-distribution for both micro-plastics (MPs) and nano-plastics (NPs); however, significantly less data on NPs than MPs have been reported. The occurrence of salts, proteins, and other organic matter may promote or inhibit the aggregation of NPs to form agglomeration particles, making their detection more difficult. In this study, 80 and 500 nm polystyrene nano-plastics (PS-NPs) modified by four different functional groups (PS-Bare, PS-COOH, PS-NH2, and PS-CHO-500 nm) were selected to mimic the flocculation and/or sedimentation of NPs in salts (NaCl, CaCl2, and Na2SO4) and protein solutions. The results showed that the 80 nm PS-NPs are only colloidal in pure water. All four strong electrolyte solutions that were tested significantly promoted the aggregation of PS-NPs, including those that were protein-coated. In addition, 500 nm PS-CHO did not flocculate but gradually settled into sedimentation. Therefore, Raman spectrometry can be used to analyze assembled PS-NPs, but is not suitable for analyzing normal PS-NPs. By combining fractal morphology, this study provides insight into the comprehensive analysis of PS-NPs in water solutions, including the digestion of biological samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Vaccine Development, Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Zhoushan Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316021, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Xiamen University,Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Zhoushan Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316021, China.
| | - Heqing Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Vaccine Development, Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China; Department of Obstetrics, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361000, Fujian, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang H, Liu Y, Niu C, Wang Y, Wang B, Liu Y, Guo L, Wang Z. Long-term exposure of polytetrafluoroethylene-nanoplastics on the nitrogen removal and extracellular polymeric substances in sequencing batch reactor. Enzyme Microb Technol 2023; 166:110229. [PMID: 36966678 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2023.110229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
The impact of polytetrafluoroethylene-nanoplastics (PTFE-NPs) on biological sewage disposal was delved, containing nitrogen remotion, microbiological activity and composition of extracellular polymer (EPS). The addition of PTFE-NPs reduced the removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) by 3.43 % and 2.35 %, respectively. In comparison with no PTFE-NPs, the specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR), specific ammonia oxidation rate (SAOR), specific nitrite oxidation rate (SNOR) and specific nitrate reduction rate (SNRR) decreased by 65.26 %, 65.24 %, 41.77 % and 54.56 %, respectively. The PTFE-NPs inhibited the activities of nitrobacteria and denitrobacteria. It was worth noting that, nitrite oxidized bacterium was more resistant to adverse environments than ammonia oxidizing bacterium. Compared with no PTFE-NPs, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) grew by 130 % and 50 % under PTFE-NPs pressure. The appearance of PTFE-NPs affected the normal function of microorganisms by inducing endocellular oxidative stress and destroying the completeness of the cytomembrane. The protein (PN) and polysaccharide (PS) levels in loosely bound EPS (LB-EPS) and tightly bound EPS (TB -EPS) increased by 4.96, 0.70, 3.07 and 0.71 mg g-1 VSS, under PTFE-NPs. Meanwhile, the PN/PS ratios of LB-EPS and TB -EPS increased from 6.18 and 6.41-11.04 and 9.29, respectively. The LB-EPS might provide sufficient binding sites for PTFE-NPs adsorption due to its loose and porous structure. The defense mechanism of bacteria against PTFE-NPs was mainly the PN in loosely bound EPS. Moreover, the functional groups referred to the complexation of EPS with PTFE-NPs were mainly related to N-H, CO, and C-N in proteins and O-H in polysaccharides.
Collapse
|
16
|
Wu J, Ye Q, Li P, Sun L, Huang M, Liu J, Ahmed Z, Wu P. The heteroaggregation behavior of nanoplastics on goethite: Effects of surface functionalization and solution chemistry. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:161787. [PMID: 36706999 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics have attracted extensive attention in recent years. However, little is known about the heteroaggregation behavior of nanoplastics on goethite (FeOOH), especially the contribution of surface functional groups. In this study, the heteroaggregation behavior between polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) and FeOOH was systematically investigated under different reaction conditions. Moreover, the effect of different functional groups (-NH2, -COOH, and bare) of PSNPs and solution chemistry was evaluated. The results showed that PSNPs could heteroaggregate with FeOOH, and the heteroaggregation rate of PSNPs with surface functionalization was significantly faster. The removal of suspended PSNPs was enhanced with increasing NaCl or CaCl2 concentration. However, heteroaggregation was significantly inhibited with the increase of solution pH. The zeta potentials analysis, time-resolved dynamic light scattering (DLS) and heteroaggregation experiments suggested that the electrostatic force affected the heteroaggregation process significantly. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra proved that the adsorption affinity between PSNPs and FeOOH was stronger after surface functionalization, especially for CH, O-C=O, and -CH2- groups, indicating that chemical bonding also made a contribution during the heteroaggregation process. This work is expected to provide a theoretical basis for predicting the environmental behavior between PSNPs and FeOOH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayan Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Quanyun Ye
- Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Peiran Li
- Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Leiye Sun
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Minye Huang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Jieyu Liu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Pingxiao Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Environmental Nanomaterials, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Du T, Yu X, Shao S, Li T, Xu S, Wu L. Aging of Nanoplastics Significantly Affects Protein Corona Composition Thus Enhancing Macrophage Uptake. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:3206-3217. [PMID: 36730723 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c05772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs), as emerging contaminants, have attracted increasing attention for their effects on human exposure and potential health risks. The protein corona formed on the surface of NPs affects the biological activity and fate of the NPs in vivo. However, how environmental aging, an inevitable process once NPs enter the environment, affects the formation of protein corona on NPs is still unclear. This study investigated the changes in the compositions of protein corona formed on photo-aged polystyrene (PS) NPs in human bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), corresponding to the inhalation exposure pathway. The results demonstrated that both the species and abundance of proteins in the BALF protein corona on the surface of PS NPs were altered by aging. In addition, the aged PS NPs are more hydrophilic and less electronegative than the pristine PS NPs; hence, there is an increased sorption of more negatively charged hydrophilic proteins. Moreover, aging-induced alterations in BALF protein corona enhanced the uptake of aged PS NPs by lung macrophages J774A.1 through phagocytosis and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. These findings highlight the importance of environmental aging processes in the biosafety assessment of nanoplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Du
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Xiang Yu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Song Shao
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Tong Li
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Shengmin Xu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang Y, Liu X, Liu R, Han W, Yang Q. Mechanisms of interaction between polystyrene nanoplastics and extracellular polymeric substances in the activated sludge cultivated by different carbon sources. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 314:137656. [PMID: 36581121 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137656] [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: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitously present in wastewater treatment plants, which would be removed by the flocculation of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) from activated sludge. However, the interaction mechanisms between NPs and EPS of activated sludge remain largely unexplored. This study investigated the interaction mechanisms between polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and EPS with sodium acetate (NaAc), methanol (MeOH) and glucose (GLC) as carbon sources. The results showed that the functional group involved in the interactions between PS-NPs and EPS was the carbonyl of protein amide I region. The interaction between PS-NPs and EPS increased the β-sheets content, decreased the ratio of α-helix to (β-sheet + random coil), and changed the protein secondary structures to strong rigidity. This enhanced the flocculation of activated sludge cultivated by these three carbon sources. The flocculation between PS-NPs and EPS in activated sludge using NaAc as the carbon source was the strongest among these three carbon sources. Therefore, the degree of flocculation between NPs and EPS of activated sludge in wastewater treatment plants varies with carbon sources. This work provides a reference for the NPs removal mechanisms from wastewater, which will help to understand the migration behavior of MPs and NPs in wastewater treatment processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaxin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| | - Xiuhong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Water Quality Science and Water Environment Recovery Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China.
| | - Runyu Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| | - Weipeng Han
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| | - Qing Yang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Advanced Municipal Wastewater Treatment and Reuse Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Feng LJ, Shi ZL, Duan JL, Han Y, Sun XD, Ma JY, Liu XY, Zhang HX, Guo N, Song C, Zong WS, Yuan XZ. Using colloidal AFM probe technique and XDLVO theory to predict the transport of nanoplastics in porous media. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:136968. [PMID: 36283429 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136968] [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: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The plastic concentration in terrestrial systems is orders of magnitude higher than that found in marine ecosystems, which has raised global concerns about their potential risk to agricultural sustainability. Previous research on the transport of nanoplastics in soil relied heavily on the qualitative prediction of the mean-field extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theory (XDLVO), but direct and quantitative measurements of the interfacial forces between single nanoplastics and porous media are lacking. In this study, we conducted multiscale investigations ranging from column transport experiments to single particle measurements. The maximum effluent concentration (C/C0) of amino-modified nanoplastics (PS-NH2) was 0.94, whereas that of the carboxyl-modified nanoplastics (PS-COOH) was only 0.33, indicating PS-NH2 were more mobile than PS-COOH at different ionic strengths (1-50 mM) and pH values (5-9). This phenomenon was mainly attributed to the homogeneous aggregation of PS-COOH. In addition, the transport of PS-NH2 in the quartz sand column was inhibited with the increase of ionic strength and pH, and pH was the major factor governing their mobility. The transport of PS-COOH was inhibited with increasing ionic strength and decreasing pH. Hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity-mediated interactions and particle heterogeneity strongly interfered with interfacial forces, leading to the qualitative prediction of XDLVO, contrary to experimental observations. Through the combination of XDLVO and colloidal atomic force microscopy, accurate and quantitative interfacial forces can provide compelling insight into the fate of nanoparticles in the soil environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Feng
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, PR China; Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Conservation, Hengshui, Heibei 053000, PR China
| | - Zong-Lin Shi
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Conservation, Hengshui, Heibei 053000, PR China; Department of Life Science, Hengshui College, Hengshui, Heibei, 053000, PR China
| | - Jian-Lu Duan
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Yi Han
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Xiao-Dong Sun
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Jing-Ya Ma
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yu Liu
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Huan-Xin Zhang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, PR China
| | - Ning Guo
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Chao Song
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Wan-Song Zong
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, PR China.
| | - Xian-Zheng Yuan
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment (ISFREE), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kim EH, Choi S, Kim D, Park HJ, Bian Y, Choi SH, Chung HY, Bae ON. Amine-modified nanoplastics promote the procoagulant activation of isolated human red blood cells and thrombus formation in rats. Part Fibre Toxicol 2022; 19:60. [PMID: 36104730 PMCID: PMC9472436 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-022-00500-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) formed from decomposed plastic are increasing environmental threats. Although MPs and NPs exposed through various routes enter the systemic circulation, the potential toxicity of those is largely unknown. We investigated whether polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) promote the coagulation activity of red blood cells (RBCs). Results We tested several types of PS-NPs using human RBCs and found that amine-modified 100 nm PS-NPs were the most potent. We measured the uptake of PS-NPs using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Electron microscopy revealed morphological changes of RBCs by PS-NPs. PS-NPs induced the externalization of phosphatidylserine, generation of microvesicles in RBCs, and perturbations in the intracellular microenvironment. PS-NPs increased the activity of scramblases responsible for phospholipid translocation in RBCs. PS-NPs modulated the functional interaction to adjacent tissues and coagulation cascade, enhancing RBC adhesion and thrombin generation. Our observations in human RBCs were consistent with those in isolated rat RBCs, showing no inter-species differences. In rat venous thrombosis models, the intravenous administration of PS-NPs enhanced thrombus formation.
Conclusion Amine-modified PS-NPs induce the prothrombotic activation of RBCs causing thrombus formation. We believe that our study will contribute to understanding the potential toxicity of amine-modified polystyrene particles in blood cells and cardiovascular systems. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12989-022-00500-y.
Collapse
|
21
|
Tang S, Qian J, Wang P, Lu B, He Y, Yi Z, Zhang Y. Exposure to nanoplastic induces cell damage and nitrogen inhibition of activated sludge: Evidence from bacterial individuals and groups. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 306:119471. [PMID: 35577260 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are almost the only place where plastic fragments are artificially removed, resulting in mass accumulation of nanoplastics (NPs). In this research, four different concentrations (0 mg/L, 0.1 mg/L, 1 mg/L, 10 mg/L) of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) were used to investigate the cell damage and nitrogen inhibition of activated sludge, exposed in a self-assembled SBR reactor for 30 days. Intracellular reactive oxides (ROS) and extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) increased with the rise of exposure concentration, and morphological analysis disclosed the creases, collapse, and even rupture of cell membranes. However, exposure damage (PS-NPs ≤ 1 mg/L) appeared to be reversible, attributed to that extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secretion can thicken the three protective layers outside the membrane. PS-NPs did not disrupt the EPS chemical structure, but increased humic acid content. Prolonged exposure time (from 15 to 30 days) was directly related to the nitrogen inhibition. Due to the habitat changes under PS-NPs exposure, abundance and diversity of microorganisms in the original activated sludge decreased significantly, and the dominant phylum was occupied by Patescibacteria (PS-NPs = 10 mg/L). Changes in enzyme activities of AMO, NR, NIR, and NOR with exposure concentration may explain the conversion of nitrogen in SBR. This research broadens our horizons to understand the response mechanism of activated sludge bacteria to PS-NPs exposure individually and collectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sijing Tang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Qian
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Bianhe Lu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxuan He
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyang Yi
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yu Y, Luan Y, Dai W. Time evolution of protein corona formed by polystyrene nanoplastics and urease. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 218:72-81. [PMID: 35870622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.07.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Nanoplastics, as an emerging pollutant in the environment, have the potential to adsorb various macromolecules onto the surface to form protein corona that may change the physicochemical properties and environmental fate of themselves, which deepens the uncertainty of their environmental hazards. Hence, in present study, we investigated the interaction between polystyrene nanoplastics and urease that forms protein corona over time in different conditions with atomic force microscopy, zeta potential, hydrodynamic diameter, and infrared spectroscopy. According to our results, polystyrene nanoplastics adsorbed urease and formed hard corona, changing the secondary structure of urease, and that the physicochemical properties of protein corona changed and stabilized over time. We concluded that even in a single-protein system, a dynamic process where protein molecules simultaneously adsorb onto and desorb from the surface of nanoplastics runs through the entire interaction. And we found that the formation and evolution of protein corona were governed by various interlinked factors (e.g., pH and nanoplastic surface modification types) instead of dominated by individual factor. This study aims to improve the knowledge about the formation of nanoplastic-protein corona and thus provide a reference for better evaluation of their environmental risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Yu
- The Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yaning Luan
- The Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Wei Dai
- The Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation of Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cao X, Xu L, Chen YP, Decho AW, Cui Z, Lead JR. Contribution, Composition, and Structure of EPS by In Vivo Exposure to Elucidate the Mechanisms of Nanoparticle-Enhanced Bioremediation to Metals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:896-906. [PMID: 34983180 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c05326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) have been recently found to contribute most for metal removal in nanoenhanced bioremediation. However, the mechanism by which NPs affect EPS-metal interactions is not fully known. Here, Halomonas sp. was employed to explore the role of EPS after in vivo exposure to Cd/Pb and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) coated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs, 20 mg L-1) for 72 h. Cd-IONPs produced the highest concentrations of EPS proteins (136.3 mg L-1), while Cd induced the most production of polysaccharides (241.0 mg L-1). IONPs increased protein/polysaccharides ratio from 0.2 (Cd) to 1.2 (Cd-IONPs). The increased protein favors the formation of protein coronas on IONPs surface, which would promote Cd adsorption during NP-metal-EPS interaction. FTIR analysis indicated that the coexistence of Cd and IONPs interacted with proteins more strongly than with polysaccharides. Glycosyl monomer analyses suggested mannose and glucose as target sugars for EPS complexation with metals, and IONPs reduced metal-induced changes in monosaccharide profiles. Protein secondary structures changed in all treatments, but we could not distinguish stresses induced by metals from those by IONPs. These findings provide greater understanding of the role of EPS in NP-metal-EPS interaction, providing a better underpinning knowledge for the application of NP-enhanced bioremediation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Cao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk (CENR), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Liang Xu
- Shandong Taixing Advanced Material Co., LTD., Shandong Energy Group, Jinan, 250204, PR China
| | - Yung Pin Chen
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk (CENR), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Alan W Decho
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Zhaojie Cui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China
| | - Jamie R Lead
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk (CENR), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang Y, Yang Y, Liu X, Zhao J, Liu R, Xing B. Interaction of Microplastics with Antibiotics in Aquatic Environment: Distribution, Adsorption, and Toxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:15579-15595. [PMID: 34747589 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c04509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
As two major types of pollutants of emerging concerns, microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics (ATs) coexist in aquatic environments, and their interactions are a source of increasing concern. Therefore, this work examines the interaction mechanisms of MPs and ATs, and the effect of MPs on ATs bioavailability and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) abundance in aquatic environments. First, the mechanisms for ATs adsorption on MPs are summarized, mainly including hydrophobic, hydrogen-bonding, and electrostatic interactions. But other possible mechanisms, such as halogen bonding, CH/π interaction, cation-π interaction, and negative charge-assisted hydrogen bonds, are newly proposed to explain the observed ATs adsorption. Additionally, environmental factors (such as pH, ionic strength, dissolved organic matters, minerals, and aging conditions) affecting ATs adsorption by MPs are specifically discussed. Moreover, MPs could change the bioaccumulation and toxicity of ATs to aquatic organisms, and the related mechanisms on the joint effect are reviewed and analyzed. Furthermore, MPs can enrich ARGs from the surrounding environment, and the effect of MPs on ARGs abundance is evaluated. Finally, research challenges and perspectives for MPs-ATs interactions and related environmental implications are presented. This review will facilitate a better understanding of the environmental fate and risk of both MPs and ATs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, P. R. China
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Yanni Yang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, P. R. China
| | - Xia Liu
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, P. R. China
| | - Jian Zhao
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, P. R. China
| | - Ruihan Liu
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, P. R. China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hatinoğlu MD, Sanin FD. Sewage sludge as a source of microplastics in the environment: A review of occurrence and fate during sludge treatment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 295:113028. [PMID: 34153586 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Modern wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) effectively remove microplastics (MPs) from wastewater and unsurprisingly concentrate them in sludge. Hence through its beneficial use and disposal, sludge causes secondary release pathways of an estimated average amount of 106 to 1014 wastewater-based MPs to various environmental compartments yearly. Despite these numbers, studies investigating sludge are scarce. Currently, majority of the studies in the field focus on identifying the magnitude of the problem, whereas research investigating the fate and effects of MPs during sludge treatment are very rare. This review aims to bring together and critically evaluate the limited studies conducted about MPs in the sludge treatment line and bring out the key gaps and research needs in the area. Studies conducted so far indicate that depending on the type, size, and amount of MPs, their effects during anaerobic digestion differ, with some studies demonstrating serious negative impact on biogas production. Possible effect mechanisms are also suggested such as formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and leaching of toxic chemicals. Moreover, a potential for sludge treatment processes (thickening, dewatering, drying, stabilization, etc.) to change the characteristics and the number of MPs, which may increase surface area available for adsorption and desorption of pollutants, was observed. Review uncovers that, in the broad universe of MPs, some highly abundant ones in sludge such as polypropylene, polyurethane, polycarbonate, and acrylic are not yet investigated in sludge treatment. Future research should focus not only to investigate the fate/effects but to fully understand the mechanisms behind these, which is missing in many studies reviewed. Besides, new studies show that effect of MPs start from the floc formation stage during biological treatment, which in fact determine the final sludge behavior in thickening and dewatering. Therefore, holistic approaches starting from wastewater till sludge exits WWTP seem necessary. Substantiating from polymer chemistry and response of plastics to stress conditions, review suggests possibilities of deterioration during sludge treatment processes. It becomes evident that some totally uninvestigated aspects such as disintegration conducted before stabilization, can change the fate of MPs during sludge treatment and may bring new perspectives to the solution of the problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Dilara Hatinoğlu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Middle East Technical University, 06800, Ankara, Turkey
| | - F Dilek Sanin
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Middle East Technical University, 06800, Ankara, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|