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Ullah R, Farias J, Feyissa BA, Tsui MTK, Chow A, Williams C, Karanfil T, Ligaba-Osena A. Combined effects of polyamide microplastic and sulfamethoxazole in modulating the growth and transcriptome profile of hydroponically grown rice (Oryza sativa L.). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 952:175909. [PMID: 39233070 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175909] [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: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
The use of reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants for irrigation has a risk of introducing micropollutants such as microplastics (MPs) and antimicrobials (AMs) into the agroecosystem. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of single and combined treatment of 0.1 % polyamide (PA ∼15 μm), and varying sulfamethoxazole (SMX) levels 0, 10, 50, and 150 mg/L on rice seedlings (Oryza sativa L.) for 12 days. The study aimed to assess the impact of these contaminants on the morphological, physiological, and biochemical parameters of the rice plants. The findings revealed that rice seedlings were not sensitive to PA alone. However, SMX alone or in combination with PA, significantly inhibited shoot and root growth, total biomass, and affected photosynthetic pigments. Higher concentrations of SMX increased antioxidant enzyme activity, indicating oxidative stress. The roots had a higher SMX content than the shoots, and the concentration of minerals such as iron, copper, and magnesium were reduced in roots treated with SMX. RNA-seq analysis showed changes in the expression of genes related to stress, metabolism, and transport in response to the micropollutants. Overall, this study provides valuable insights on the combined impacts of MPs and AMs on food crops, the environment, and human health in future risk assessments and management strategies in using reclaimed water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raza Ullah
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402, USA
| | - Julia Farias
- USDA-ARS, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, 21881 N. Cardon Ln, Maricopa, AZ 85138, USA
| | | | - Martin Tsz-Ki Tsui
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402, USA; School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Shatin, New Territories, China; Earth and Environmental Sciences Program, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Shatin, China
| | - Alex Chow
- Earth and Environmental Sciences Program, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Shatin, China
| | - Clinton Williams
- USDA-ARS, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, 21881 N. Cardon Ln, Maricopa, AZ 85138, USA
| | - Tanju Karanfil
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Ayalew Ligaba-Osena
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402, USA.
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2
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Chen G, Huang X, Chen P, Gong X, Wang X, Liu S, Huang Z, Fang Q, Pan Q, Tan X. Polystyrene influence on Pb bioavailability and rhizosphere toxicity: Challenges for ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) in soil phytoremediation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176322. [PMID: 39299333 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals often coexist in soil, however their interactions and effects on the soil-plant system remain largely unclear. In this study, ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) was exposed to soil contaminated with lead (Pb) and polystyrene (PS) of different sizes, dosages, and surface-charged functional groups. This design aimed to simulate the effects of MPs on phytoremediation. The experimental results revealed that PS exacerbated the damaging effects of Pb on ramie. Compared to the effect of Pb alone, PS-COOH had a greater influence on root vigor, leading to a 15.6 % reduction in the active absorption ratio. Laser scanning confocal microscope showed PS entered the roots. Adsorption/desorption experiments demonstrated that PS had a weaker adsorption capacity for Pb than soil but a greater desorption rate than soil when simulating rhizosphere secretion. Moreover, PS reduced soil pH and increased the reducible state of Pb by 6-12 %. After 100 days of phytoremediation, Pb content in the soil with PS-5 μm was 150 μg g-1 less than that in the soil without PS. These results demonstrated that PS improved Pb bioavailability and enhanced the efficiency of Pb uptake by ramie. The redundancy analysis demonstrated that PS mitigated the toxicity of Pb to rhizosphere microorganisms, potentially via its effects on metal chemical fractions, dehydrogenase activity (S-DHA), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and soil organic matter (SOM). This study indicates that the presence of PS could potentially enhance the phytoremediation efficiency of ramie in Pb-contaminated land by influencing soil microenvironmental properties. This study provides insights into the complex interactions of MPs with soil-plant-microbial systems during metal remediation, thereby enhancing our understanding of their environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaobin Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Xinyi Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Ping Chen
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Xiaomin Gong
- College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- School of Geographical Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, PR China
| | - Shaobo Liu
- School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Zhenhong Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Qianzhen Fang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Qiuqi Pan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Xiaofei Tan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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3
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Xiao L, Peng H, Song Z, Liu H, Dong Y, Lin Z, Gao M. Impacts of root exudates on the toxic response of Chrysanthemum coronarium L. to the co-pollution of nanoplastic particles and tetracycline. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 361:124916. [PMID: 39251125 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Nano polystyrene (PS) particles and antibiotics universally co-exist, posing a threat to crop plants and hence human health, nevertheless, there is limited research on their combined toxic effects along with major influential factors, especially root exudates, on crop plants. This study aimed to investigate the response of Chrysanthemum coronarium L. to the co-pollution of nanoplastics and tetracycline (TC), as well as the effect of root exudates on this response. Based on a hydroponic experiment, the biochemical and physiological indices of Chrysanthemum coronarium L. were measured after 7 days of exposure. Results revealed that the co-pollution of TC and PS caused significant oxidative damage to the plants, resulting in reduced biomass. Amongst the two contaminants, TC played a more prominent role. PS could enter the root tissue, and the uptake of TC and PS by plant roots was synergetic. Malic acid, oxalic acid, and formic acid could explain 65.1% of the variation in biochemical parameters and biomass of the roots. These compounds affected the photosynthesis and biomass of Chrysanthemum coronarium L. by gradually lowering root reactive oxygen species (ROS) and leaf ROS. In contrast, the impact of rhizobacteria on the toxic response of the plants was relatively minor. These findings suggested that root exudates could alleviate the toxic response of plants to the co-pollution of TC and PS. This study enhances our understanding of the role of root exudates, providing insights for agricultural management and ensuring food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Xiao
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hongchang Peng
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Zhengguo Song
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hanxuan Liu
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Youming Dong
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Zitian Lin
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Minling Gao
- Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
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4
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Liu Y, Chen S, Zhou P, Li H, Wan Q, Lu Y, Li B. Differential impacts of microplastics on carbon and nitrogen cycling in plant-soil systems: A meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174655. [PMID: 39004375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely present in terrestrial ecosystems. However, how MPs impact carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling within plant-soil system is still poorly understood. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis utilizing 3338 paired observations from 180 publications to estimate the effects of MPs on plant growth (biomass, nitrogen content, nitrogen uptake and nitrogen use efficiency), change in soil C content (total carbon (TC), soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC)), C losses (carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane), soil N content (total nitrogen, dissolved organic nitrogen, microbial biomass nitrogen, total dissolve nitrogen, ammonium, nitrate (NO3--N) and nitrite) and nitrogen losses (nitrous oxide, ammonia (NH3) volatilization and N leaching) comprehensively. Results showed that although MPs significantly increased CO2 emissions by 25.7 %, they also increased TC, SOC, MBC, DOC and CO2 by 53.3 %, 25.4 %, 19.6 % and 24.7 %, respectively, and thus increased soil carbon sink capacity. However, MPs significantly decreased NO3--N and NH3 volatilization by 14.7 % and 43.3 %, respectively. Meanwhile, MPs significantly decreased plant aboveground biomass, whereas no significant changes were detected in plant belowground biomass and plant N content. The impacts of MPs on soil C, N and plant growth varied depending on MP types, sizes, concentrations, and experimental durations, in part influenced by initial soil properties. Overall, although MPs enhanced soil carbon sink capacity, they may pose a significant threat to future agricultural productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yige Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Siyi Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Pengyu Zhou
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Haochen Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Quan Wan
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Ying Lu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China
| | - Bo Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China.
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5
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Gao B, Gao F, Zhang X, Li Y, Yao H. Effects of different sizes of microplastic particles on soil respiration, enzyme activities, microbial communities, and seed germination. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173100. [PMID: 38735330 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173100] [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: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants of terrestrial ecosystems. The impacts of MP particle size on terrestrial systems remain unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of six particle sizes (i.e., 4500, 1500, 500, 50, 5, and 0.5 μm) of polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on soil respiration, enzyme activity, bacteria, fungi, protists, and seed germination. MPs significantly promoted soil respiration, and the stimulating effects of PE were the strongest for medium and small-sized (0.5-1500 μm) particles, while those of PVC were the strongest for small particle sizes (0.5-50 μm). Large-sized (4500 μm) PE and all sizes of PVC significantly improved soil urease activity, while medium-sized (1500 μm) PVC significantly improved soil invertase activity. MPs altered the soil microbial community diversity, and the effects were especially pronounced for medium and small-sized (0.5-1500 μm) particles of PE and PVC on bacteria and fungi and small-sized (0.5 μm) particles of PE on protists. The impacts of MPs on bacteria and fungi were greater than on protists. The seed germination rate of Brassica chinensis decreased gradually with the decrease in PE MPs particle size. Therefore, to reduce the impact of MPs on soil ecosystems, effective measures should be taken to avoid the transformation of MPs into smaller particles in soil environmental management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Gao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; College of Tourism & Landscape Architecture, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, People's Republic of China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuyun Gao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingfeng Zhang
- College of Tourism & Landscape Architecture, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaying Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, People's Republic of China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Urban Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, CAS Haixi Industrial Technology Innovation Center in Beilun, Ningbo 315830, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaiying Yao
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, 206 Guanggu 1st road, Wuhan 430205, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Li X, Zeng G, Du X, Zhou R, Lian J, Liu J, Guo X, Tang Z. Effects of polyethylene and biodegradable microplastics on the physiology and metabolic profiles of dandelion. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 352:124116. [PMID: 38718962 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124116] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics, such as poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA), are potential alternatives to conventional polyethylene (PE), both of which are associated with the production of microplastics (MPs). However, the toxicity of these compounds on medicinal plants and their differential effects on plant morphophysiology remain unclear. This study supplemented soils with MPs sized at 200 μm at a rate of 1% w/w and incubated them for 50 days to investigate the impact of MPs on the growth and metabolites of dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.). The results demonstrated that the investigated MPs decreased the growth of dandelion seedlings, induced oxidative stress, and altered the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase). Based on the comprehensive toxicity assessment results, the ecological toxicity was in the following order: PE MPs > PBAT MPs > PLA MPs. Metabolomics analyses revealed metabolic reprogramming in dandelion plants, leading to the enrichment of numerous differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in the leaves. These pathways include carbohydrate metabolism, energy metabolism, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, suggesting that dandelions respond to MP stress by enhancing the activity of sugar, organic acid, and amino acid metabolic pathways. In addition, phenolic acids and flavonoids are critical for maintaining the balance in the antioxidant defense system. Our results provide substantial insights into the toxicity of biodegradable MPs to plants and shed light on plant defense and adaptation strategies. Further assessment of the safety of biodegradable MPs in terrestrial ecosystems is essential to provide guidance for environmentally friendly management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingfan Li
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Resource Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China; Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China.
| | - Guangnian Zeng
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Resource Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China; Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xinyi Du
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Resource Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China; Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Ranran Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions, Ministry of Education, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiapan Lian
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resources Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Soybean Molecular Design Breeding, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xiaorui Guo
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Resource Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China; Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China.
| | - Zhonghua Tang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Resource Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China; Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China
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7
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Ren F, Huang J, Yang Y. Unveiling the impact of microplastics and nanoplastics on vascular plants: A cellular metabolomic and transcriptomic review. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116490. [PMID: 38795417 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116490] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
With increasing plastic manufacture and consumption, microplastics/nanoplastics (MP/NP) pollution has become one of the world's pressing global environmental issues, which poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health. In recent years, sharp increasing researches have confirmed that MP/NP had direct or indirect effects on vegetative growth and sexual process of vascular plant. But the potential mechanisms remain ambiguous. MP/NP particles can be adsorbed and/or absorbed by plant roots or leaves and thus cause diverse effects on plant. This holistic review aims to discuss the direct effects of MP/NP on vascular plant, with special emphasis on the changes of metabolic and molecular levels. MP/NP can alter substance and energy metabolism, as well as shifts in gene expression patterns. Key aspects affected by MP/NP stress include carbon and nitrogen metabolism, amino acids biosynthesis and plant hormone signal transduction, expression of stress related genes, carbon and nitrogen metabolism related genes, as well as those involved in pathogen defense. Additionally, the review provides updated insights into the growth and physiological responses of plants exposed to MP/NP, encompassing phenomena such as seed/spore germination, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. By examining the direct impact of MP/NP from both physiological and molecular perspectives, this review sets the stage for future investigations into the complex interactions between plants and plastic pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fugang Ren
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610072, China; College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Vocal Performance, Sichuan Conservatory of Music, Chengdu 610021, China
| | - Yongqing Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 401331, China.
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8
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Xu L, Xie W, Dai H, Wei S, Skuza L, Li J, Shi C, Zhang L. Effects of combined microplastics and heavy metals pollution on terrestrial plants and rhizosphere environment: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142107. [PMID: 38657695 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142107] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can enter the soil environment through industry, agricultural production and daily life sources. Their interaction with heavy metals (HMs) poses a significant threat to a variety of terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural ones, thereby affecting crop quality and threatening human health. This review initially addresses the impact of single and combined contamination with MPs and HMs on soil environment, including changes in soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and diversity, fertility, enzyme activity and resistance genes, as well as alterations in heavy metal speciation. The article further explores the effects of this pollution on the growth characteristics of terrestrial plants, such as plant biomass, antioxidant systems, metabolites and photosynthesis. In general, the combined contaminants tend to significantly affect soil environment and terrestrial plant growth, i.e., the impact of combined contaminants on plants weight ranged from -87.5% to 4.55%. Similarities and differences in contamination impact levels stem from the variations in contaminant types, sizes and doses of contaminants and the specific plant growth environments. In addition, MPs can not only infiltrate plants directly, but also significantly affect the accumulation of HMs in terrestrial plants. The heavy metals concentration in plants under the treatment of MPs were 70.26%-36.80%. The co-occurrence of these two pollution types can pose a serious threat to crop productivity and safety. Finally, this study proposes suggestions for future research aiming to address current gaps in knowledge, raises awareness about the impact of combined MPs + HMs pollution on plant growth and eco-environmental security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Wenjun Xie
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China.
| | - Huiping Dai
- College of Biological Science & Engineering, Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Bio-resources, Qinling-Bashan Mountains Bioresources Comprehensive Development C.I.C, State Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecological Environment Jointly Built By Qinba Province and Ministry, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001, China
| | - Shuhe Wei
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environment Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Lidia Skuza
- Institute of Biology, Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-415, Poland
| | - Jianan Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Cailing Shi
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Lichang Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
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9
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Zeb A, Liu W, Ali N, Shi R, Wang Q, Wang J, Li J, Yin C, Liu J, Yu M, Liu J. Microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems: Global implications and sustainable solutions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132636. [PMID: 37778309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132636] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MPs) pollution has become a global environmental concern with significant impacts on ecosystems and human health. Although MPs have been widely detected in aquatic environments, their presence in terrestrial ecosystems remains largely unexplored. This review examines the multifaceted issues of MPs pollution in terrestrial ecosystem, covering various aspects from additives in plastics to global legislation and sustainable solutions. The study explores the widespread distribution of MPs worldwide and their potential antagonistic interactions with co-occurring contaminants, emphasizing the need for a holistic understanding of their environmental implications. The influence of MPs on soil and plants is discussed, shedding light on the potential consequences for terrestrial ecosystems and agricultural productivity. The aging mechanisms of MPs, including photo and thermal aging, are elucidated, along with the factors influencing their aging process. Furthermore, the review provides an overview of global legislation addressing plastic waste, including bans on specific plastic items and levies on single-use plastics. Sustainable solutions for MPs pollution are proposed, encompassing upstream approaches such as bioplastics, improved waste management practices, and wastewater treatment technologies, as well as downstream methods like physical and biological removal of MPs. The importance of international collaboration, comprehensive legislation, and global agreements is underscored as crucial in tackling this pervasive environmental challenge. This review may serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders, providing a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact and potential risks associated with MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurang Zeb
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Weitao Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Nouman Ali
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ruiying Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianling Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chuan Yin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jinzheng Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Miao Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianv Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
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10
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Liu Y, Ben Y, Che R, Peng C, Li J, Wang F. Uptake, transport and accumulation of micro- and nano-plastics in terrestrial plants and health risk associated with their transfer to food chain - A mini review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166045. [PMID: 37544454 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166045] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Waste plastics enter the environment (water, soil, and atmosphere) and degrade into micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) through physical, chemical, or biological processes. MNPs are ubiquitous in the environment and inevitably interact with terrestrial plants. Terrestrial plants have become important potential sinks, and subsequently, the sources of MNPs. At present, many studies have reported the effects of MNPs on plant physiology, biochemistry, and their phototoxicity. However, the source, detection method, and the absorption process of MNPs in terrestrial plants have not been systematically studied. In order to better understand the continuous process of MNPs entering terrestrial plants, this review introduces the sources and analysis methods of MNPs in terrestrial plants. The uptake pathways of MNPs in terrestrial plants and their influencing factors were systematically summarized. Meanwhile, the transport pathways and the accumulation of MNPs in different plant organs (roots, stems, leaves, calyxes, and fruits) were explored. Finally, the transfer of MNPs through food chains to humans and their health risks were discussed. The aim of this work is to provide significant theoretical knowledge to understand the uptake, transport, and accumulation of MNPs in terrestrial plants and the potential health risks associated with their transfer to humans through food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Liu
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yue Ben
- Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Weifang, 261325, China
| | - Ruijie Che
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Chunqing Peng
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Jining Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Fenghe Wang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Response Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China.
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11
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Dainelli M, Pignattelli S, Bazihizina N, Falsini S, Papini A, Baccelli I, Mancuso S, Coppi A, Castellani MB, Colzi I, Gonnelli C. Can microplastics threaten plant productivity and fruit quality? Insights from Micro-Tom and Micro-PET/PVC. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165119. [PMID: 37364840 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Solanum lycopersicum L., a crop grown worldwide with a high nutritional value for the human diet, was used to test the impact of microplastics on plant growth, productivity, and fruit quality. Two of the most represented microplastics in soils, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were tested. Plants were grown in pots with an environmentally realistic concentration of microplastics and, during the whole crop life cycle, photosynthetic parameters, number of flowers and fruits were monitored. At the end of the cultivation, plant biometry and ionome were evaluated, along with fruit production and quality. Both pollutants had negligible effects on shoot traits, with only PVC causing a significant reduction in shoot fresh weight. Despite an apparent low or no toxicity during the vegetative stage, both microplastics decreased the number of fruits and, in the case of PVC, also their fresh weights. The plastic polymer-induced decline in fruit production was coupled with wide variations in fruit ionome, with marked increases in Ni and Cd. By contrast there was a decline in the nutritionally valuable lycopene, total soluble solids, and total phenols. Altogether, our results reveal that microplastics can not only limit crop productivity but also negatively impact fruit quality and enhance the concentration of food safety hazards, thus raising concerns for their potential health risks for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Dainelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Pignattelli
- CNR-Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Nadia Bazihizina
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Falsini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Alessio Papini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Ivan Baccelli
- CNR-Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Stefano Mancuso
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via delle Idee 30, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; Fondazione per il Futuro delle Città, Via Boccaccio 50, 50133 Firenze, Italy
| | - Andrea Coppi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Colzi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Gonnelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
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12
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Zhang Y, Yang S, Zeng Y, Chen Y, Liu H, Yan X, Pu S. A new quantitative insight: Interaction of polyethylene microplastics with soil - microbiome - crop. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132302. [PMID: 37647663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the interaction between primary/secondary PE MPs and soil - microbiome - crop complex system and PE MPs enrichment behavior in crops were studied by using the self-developed quantitative characterization method of Eu-MPs and in situ zymography. The results demonstrated for the first time the enrichment effect of micron-sized PE (> 10 µm) in crops, manifested as roots>leaves>stems. Primary PE MPs significantly increased soil TN, TC, SOM and β-glu activity and inhibited Phos activity. Age-PE MPs significantly reduced soil TN, TP, β-glu and Phos activities and also have significant inhibitory effects on plant height, stem diameter, and leaf dry weight of maize. Age-PE MPs significantly affected soil microbial diversity, mainly caused by bacterial genera such as UTCFX1, Sphingomonas, Subgroup-6 and Gemmatimonas. Age-PE MPs also affected some metabolism related to microbial community composition and maize growth, including Glycerolipid, Citrate cycle (TCA cycle), C5-Branched dibasic acid, Arginine and proline, Tyrosine metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway, Valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis. These research results indicated that the PE MPs, which are widely present in farmland soils, can affect crop growth, soil microbial community and metabolic function after aging, thus affecting agroecosystems and terrestrial biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuping Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hanshuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xinyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shengyan Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu 610059, Sichuan, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, PR China.
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13
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He F, Shi H, Liu R, Tian G, Qi Y, Wang T. Randomly-shaped nanoplastics induced stronger biotoxicity targeted to earthworm Eisenia fetida species: Differential effects and the underlying mechanisms of realistic and commercial polystyrene nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162854. [PMID: 36931517 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are widely distributed in various environments, including soil, and have been known to adversely affect soil organisms. Currently, most of the obtained studies were principally focused on the ecological risks of commercial sphere-type microbeads (SNPs), while ignoring that they might be different from randomly-shaped nanoplastics (RNPs) in a real environment. Thus, this study was undertaken to probe the shape-dependent effects of NPs on the earthworm Eisenia fetida and the corresponding poisoning mechanisms, and discriminate the toxicity differences between SNPs and RNPs at the molecule, cell, tissue, and animal levels. The results showed SNPs and RNPs exhibited lethal effects to earthworms with the LC50 determined to be 27.42 g/kg and 21.69 g/kg, respectively after a 28-day exposure. SNPs and RNPs exposure can cause ROS-induced ROS release in worm, inducing oxidative stress through mitochondria-mediated pathway, leading to lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and histopathological changes, thereby contributing to decreased stress resistance against exogenous stressors. To reduce ROS-mediated oxidative damage, the antioxidant defense system in E. fetida can be activated, which scavenges unwanted ROS. High doses of SNPs and RNPs inhibited the AChE activity in worms, causing excess acetylcholine accumulation in the synaptic space, which finally lead to neurotoxicity. Also, two kinds of NPs can induce the abnormal expression of genes relevant to oxidative stress, reproduction, growth, and tight junction protein in E. fetida, which ultimately contribute to various detrimental effects, tissue damage and dysfunction, reproductive and developmental toxicity. The results obtained from the Integrated Biological Response (IBR) suggested that long-term exposure to high-dose SNPs and RNPs can induce the stronger toxicity effects to E. fetida worms, and RNPs-induced toxicity can be different and stronger than that of SNPs. Our results provide insights for revealing the environmental effects posed by randomly-shaped NPs-contaminated soil, and are of importance for assessing the contribution of NPs with different physical characteristics to soil eco-safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falin He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Huijian Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Rutao Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China.
| | - Guang Tian
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Yuntao Qi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Tingting Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
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14
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Rüthi J, Cerri M, Brunner I, Stierli B, Sander M, Frey B. Discovery of plastic-degrading microbial strains isolated from the alpine and Arctic terrestrial plastisphere. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1178474. [PMID: 37234546 PMCID: PMC10206078 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1178474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing plastic production and the release of some plastic in to the environment highlight the need for circular plastic economy. Microorganisms have a great potential to enable a more sustainable plastic economy by biodegradation and enzymatic recycling of polymers. Temperature is a crucial parameter affecting biodegradation rates, but so far microbial plastic degradation has mostly been studied at temperatures above 20°C. Here, we isolated 34 cold-adapted microbial strains from the plastisphere using plastics buried in alpine and Arctic soils during laboratory incubations as well as plastics collected directly from Arctic terrestrial environments. We tested their ability to degrade, at 15°C, conventional polyethylene (PE) and the biodegradable plastics polyester-polyurethane (PUR; Impranil®); ecovio® and BI-OPL, two commercial plastic films made of polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA); pure PBAT; and pure PLA. Agar clearing tests indicated that 19 strains had the ability to degrade the dispersed PUR. Weight-loss analysis showed degradation of the polyester plastic films ecovio® and BI-OPL by 12 and 5 strains, respectively, whereas no strain was able to break down PE. NMR analysis revealed significant mass reduction of the PBAT and PLA components in the biodegradable plastic films by 8 and 7 strains, respectively. Co-hydrolysis experiments with a polymer-embedded fluorogenic probe revealed the potential of many strains to depolymerize PBAT. Neodevriesia and Lachnellula strains were able to degrade all the tested biodegradable plastic materials, making these strains especially promising for future applications. Further, the composition of the culturing medium strongly affected the microbial plastic degradation, with different strains having different optimal conditions. In our study we discovered many novel microbial taxa with the ability to break down biodegradable plastic films, dispersed PUR, and PBAT, providing a strong foundation to underline the role of biodegradable polymers in a circular plastic economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Rüthi
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mattia Cerri
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ivano Brunner
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Beat Stierli
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Michael Sander
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Frey
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
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15
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Zeng X, Liu D, Wu Y, Zhang L, Chen R, Li R, Gu W, Zhang L, Liu C, Sun Q. Heavy metal risk of disposable food containers on human health. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114797. [PMID: 36933486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114797] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The consumption of disposable materials is booming with the rapid development of urbanization and industrialization, which may inevitably cause the release of toxic and harmful substances during use of them in daily life. This study was to estimate element levels such as Beryllium (Be), Vanadium (V), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), Antimony (Sb), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), and Selenium (Se) in leachate and subsequently assess the health risk of exposure to those disposable products such as paper and plastic food containers. We found that a large amount of metals was released from disposable food containers in hot water, and the order of metal concentration is Zn > Ba > Fe > Mn > Ni > Cu > Sb > Cr > Se > Be > Pb > Co > V > Cd. Additionally, the hazard quotient (HQ) of metals in young adults were less than 1, and were decreased in the order of Sb > Fe > Cu > Be > Ni > Cr > Pb > Zn > Se > Cd > Ba > Mn > V > Co. Furthermore, the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) results of Ni and Be indicated that chronic exposure to Ni and Be may have a non-negligible carcinogenic risk. These findings suggest that potential health risk of metals may exist for the individuals to use disposable food containers under high temperature environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Dongling Liu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yue Wu
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Rucheng Chen
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ran Li
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Weijia Gu
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Cuiqing Liu
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qinghua Sun
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China.
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16
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Xu C, Wang H, Zhou L, Yan B. Phenotypic and transcriptomic shifts in roots and leaves of rice under the joint stress from microplastic and arsenic. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 447:130770. [PMID: 36640509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Co-contamination of soil from microplastics (MP) and arsenic (As) is becoming more prevalent, posing a severe threat to agricultural productivity. However, how this joint pollution affects crop growth needs to be better understood. To assess this, we investigated the transcriptomic and phenotypic patterns of rice (Oryza sativa) to MP, As, and their mixtures. The results revealed that, compared to As, MP had much less impact on rice growth, while the MP-As mixture decreased rice's aboveground biomass and altered As's biodistribution in rice tissues. Transcriptome further corroborated this pattern: 13 (294), 4195 (1842), and 3112 (2063) genes differentially regulated in response to MP, As, and their mixtures were observed in root (leaf) tissues, respectively. The joint application of MP and As produced a synergistic effect on crucial metabolic processes, such as carbohydrate, carboxylic acid, oxoacid, organic acid, amino acid, and tetrapyrrole metabolism. Moreover, we found that the joint stress reprogrammed the expression of hub genes encoding photosynthetic enzymes, protein kinases, and transcription factors, which likely reflect a transcript-driven tradeoff strategy between rice growth and defense. Together, these results strongly indicate that MP aggravated the As-induced toxicity in rice plants, which may impact the crop's acclimation to other abiotic field environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanchan Xu
- 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
| | - Haiqing Wang
- 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
| | - Li 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.
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17
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Coman V, Scurtu VF, Coman C, Clapa D, Iancu ȘD, Leopold N, Leopold LF. Effects of polystyrene nanoplastics exposure on in vitro-grown Stevia rebaudiana plants. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2023; 197:107634. [PMID: 36965317 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2023.03.011] [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: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) as environmental contaminants have received increased attention in recent years. Numerous studies have suggested possible negative effects of plants exposure to NPs, but more data are needed with various plants under different exposure conditions to clarify the underlying phytotoxicity mechanisms. In this study, we investigated the effect of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs; 28.65 nm average diameter) exposure (10, 100 and 250 mg/L) on plant morphology and production of relevant metabolites (steviol glycosides, chlorophylls, carotenoids, and vitamins) of in vitro-grown Stevia rebaudiana plantlets. Additionally, we used dark field microscopy combined with fluorescence hyperspectral imaging for the visualization of internalized PSNPs inside plant tissues. At higher concentrations (>100 mg/L), PSNPs were shown to aggregate in roots and to be transported to leaves, having a significantly negative impact on plant growth (reduced size and biomass), while increasing the production of metabolites compared to controls, most probably because of response to stress. The production of steviol glycosides presented a biphasic dose-response suggestive of hormesis, with the highest values at 10 mg/L PSNPs (1.5-2.2-fold increase compared to controls), followed by a decline in production at higher concentrations (100 and 250 mg/L), but with values comparable to controls. These results are promising for future in vivo studies evaluating the effect of NP exposure on the production of steviol glycosides, the natural sweeteners from stevia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasile Coman
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Life Sciences Institute, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Violeta-Florina Scurtu
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Cristina Coman
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Doina Clapa
- Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Ștefania D Iancu
- Faculty of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogalniceanu, 400084, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Nicolae Leopold
- Faculty of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogalniceanu, 400084, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Loredana-Florina Leopold
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Mănăștur, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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18
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Zhang D, Li J, Li X, Wang M, Zhong Y, Chen G, Xiao H, Zhang Y. Phytoremediation of fluoroalkylethers (ether-PFASs): A review on bioaccumulation and ecotoxilogical effects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:161260. [PMID: 36587702 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161260] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Fluoroalkylethers (ether-PFASs), as alternatives to phased-out per- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), have attracted mounting attention due to their ubiquitous detection in aquatic environment and their similarity to legacy PFASs in terms of persistence and toxicity. In this review, the sources and distribution of ether-PFASs in soil ecosystem as well as their toxic impacts on soil microbial community are summarized. The plant uptake and bioaccumulation potential of ether-PFASs are presented, and a wide range of the influencing factors for their uptake and translocation is discussed. In response to ether-PFASs, the corresponding phytotoxic effects, such as seed germination, plant growth, photosynthesis, oxidative damage, antioxidant enzymes activities, and genotoxicity, are systematically elucidated. Finally, the current knowledge gaps and future research prospective are highlighted. The findings of this review will advance our understanding for the environmental behavior and implications ether-PFASs in soil-plant systems and help explore the strategies for ether-PFASs remediation to minimize their adverse toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqing Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China.
| | - Jiaying Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Xia Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China.
| | - Mo Wang
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yongming Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Gaolin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Hongyu Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Pollution Processes and Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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19
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Liu Y, Xu F, Ding L, Zhang G, Bai B, Han Y, Xiao L, Song Y, Li Y, Wan S, Li G. Microplastics reduce nitrogen uptake in peanut plants by damaging root cells and impairing soil nitrogen cycling. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 443:130384. [PMID: 36444071 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution severely impairs the sustainable development of modern agriculture. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of MP contaminants on nutrient cycles in agroecosystems are poorly understood. In this study, we examined the impacts of two types of MPs, polypropylene (PP) and rubber crumb (RC), on nitrogen (N) transformation and N cycling in soil-peanut system. High concentrations of PP (1% w/w) and RC (1% w/w) inhibited vegetative growth and N uptake in peanut plants by damaging root cells and disturbing soil N cycling. These MPs damaged the plasma membranes of root cells and caused oxidative stress, as evidenced by the decreased number of xylem vessels, which in turn inhibited N uptake by roots. Integrated metagenomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that the differential soil metabolite levels in response to MP treatment affected the microbial community structure in the rhizosphere and the expression of key N cycling-related genes, resulting in altered N transformation and the decreased availability of N in rhizosphere soil. These findings provide the first evidence of the effects of MPs on N uptake in peanut plants and shed light on the importance of rational management of MPs for crop growth and yield in agroecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Liu
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Fangji Xu
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Liping Ding
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Guanchu Zhang
- Shandong Peanut Research Institute, No.126, Wannianquan Road, Licang District, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Bo Bai
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yan Han
- Shandong Academy of Grape, Jinan 250199, China
| | - Lina Xiao
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yan Song
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Ying Li
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Shubo Wan
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.
| | - Guowei Li
- Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.
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20
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Pérez-Reverón R, Álvarez-Méndez SJ, González-Sálamo J, Socas-Hernández C, Díaz-Peña FJ, Hernández-Sánchez C, Hernández-Borges J. Nanoplastics in the soil environment: Analytical methods, occurrence, fate and ecological implications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120788. [PMID: 36481462 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120788] [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: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Soils play a very important role in ecosystems sustainability, either natural or agricultural ones, serving as an essential support for living organisms of different kinds. However, in the current context of extremely high plastic pollution, soils are highly threatened. Plastics can change the chemical and physical properties of the soils and may also affect the biota. Of particular importance is the fact that plastics can be fragmented into microplastics and, to a final extent into nanoplastics. Due to their extremely low size and high surface area, nanoplastics may even have a higher impact in soil ecosystems. Their transport through the edaphic environment is regulated by the physicochemical properties of the soil and plastic particles themselves, anthropic activities and biota interactions. Their degradation in soils is associated with a series of mechanical, photo-, thermo-, and bio-mediated transformations eventually conducive to their mineralisation. Their tiny size is precisely the main setback when it comes to sampling soils and subsequent processes for their identification and quantification, albeit pyrolysis coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and other spectroscopic techniques have proven to be useful for their analysis. Another issue as a consequence of their minuscule size lies in their uptake by plants roots and their ingestion by soil dwelling fauna, producing morphological deformations, damage to organs and physiological malfunctions, as well as the risks associated to their entrance in the food chain, although current conclusions are not always consistent and show the same pattern of effects. Thus, given the omnipresence and seriousness of the plastic menace, this review article pretends to provide a general overview of the most recent data available regarding nanoplastics determination, occurrence, fate and effects in soils, with special emphasis on their ecological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Pérez-Reverón
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Sergio J Álvarez-Méndez
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica Antonio González, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez, s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier González-Sálamo
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Socas-Hernández
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Avenida Catalunya, 21, 46020, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco J Díaz-Peña
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Cintia Hernández-Sánchez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Forense y Legal y Parasitología, Área de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Ingeniería, Sección de Náutica, Máquinas y Radioelectrónica Naval, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Vía Auxiliar Paso Alto 2, 38001, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández-Borges
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL). Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain.
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21
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Liu Y, Ren T, Xu G, Teng H, Liu B, Yu Y. Effects of micro- and nano-plastics on accumulation and toxicity of pyrene in water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:956-965. [PMID: 35907066 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22156-z] [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: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) in terrestrial ecosystems are attracting increasing attentions. However, the studies of MNPs on the accumulation and migration of organic contaminants in edible plants are relatively scarce. Here, we investigated the impacts and mechanisms of MNPs of different concentrations and sizes on the uptake and toxicity of pyrene in water spinach. The results showed that MNPs had a promotion effect on the uptake of pyrene in various parts of water spinach, leading to the continuous accumulation of pyrene. The promotion effect of high concentration microplastics (MPs, 10 μm) is stronger than that of nanoplastics (NPs, 100 nm). The co-exposure of MNPs and pyrene increased the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) in water spinach and aggravated the damage of lipid peroxidation. The co-exposure of MNPs and pyrene induced the increase of photosynthetic pigment contents and enhanced chloroplast activity. In addition, the co-exposure stimulated the overexpression of psbA and rbcL genes related to photosynthetic pigments, resulting in genotoxicity of water spinach. This study emphasized that the co-exposure of MNPs and pyrene caused harmful effects and high concentration of MPs caused greater toxicity to water spinach than NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tong Ren
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, China
| | - Guanghui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
| | - Honghui Teng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, China
| | - Baolin Liu
- College of Chemistry, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, 130032, China
| | - Yong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China.
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22
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Ullah R, Tsui MTK, Chow A, Chen H, Williams C, Ligaba-Osena A. Micro(nano)plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystem: emphasis on impacts of polystyrene on soil biota, plants, animals, and humans. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 195:252. [PMID: 36585967 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10769-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Pollution with emerging microscopic contaminants such as microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) including polystyrene (PS) in aquatic and terrestrial environments is increasingly recognized. PS is largely used in packaging materials and is dumped directly into the ecosystem. PS micro-nano-plastics (MNPs) can be potentially bioaccumulated in the food chain and can cause human health concerns through food consumption. Earlier MP research has focused on the aquatic environments, but recent researches show significant MP and NP contamination in the terrestrial environments especially agricultural fields. Though PS is the hotspot of MPs research, however, to our knowledge, this systematic review represents the first of its kind that specifically focused on PS contamination in agricultural soils, covering sources, effects, and ways of PS mitigation. The paper also provides updated information on the effects of PS on soil organisms, its uptake by plants, and effects on higher animals as well as human beings. Directions for future research are also proposed to increase our understanding of the environmental contamination of PS in terrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raza Ullah
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27402, USA
| | - Martin Tsz-Ki Tsui
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27402, USA
- School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Shatin, New Territories, China
| | - Alex Chow
- Biogeochemistry & Environmental Quality Research Group, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29442, USA
- Dep. of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Huan Chen
- Biogeochemistry & Environmental Quality Research Group, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29442, USA
- Dep. of Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Clinton Williams
- USDA-ARS, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, Cardon Ln, Maricopa, AZ, USA
| | - Ayalew Ligaba-Osena
- Laboratory of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27402, USA.
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23
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Surgun-Acar Y. Response of soybean (Glycine max L.) seedlings to polystyrene nanoplastics: Physiological, biochemical, and molecular perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 314:120262. [PMID: 36162560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120262] [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: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics are new generation contaminants of global concern. It is important to evaluate the effects on edible products due to the presence of micro- and nano-sized plastics in the treated wastewater. A hydroponic experiment was carried out to explore the effect of polsytrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs; 20 nm) at different concentrations (0, 12.5, 25, and 50 mg L-1) on Glycine max L. (soybean) seedlings for 7-days. In the current study, firstly the uptake of PS-NPs by Glycine max L. (soybean) roots were confirmed by laser confocal scanning microscope. Exposure to PS-NPs, negatively affected growth parameters and increased Fe, Zn and Mn contents in roots and leaves of soybean seedlings. PS-NPs treatments caused oxidative stress in soybean seedlings. The hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde contents, showed similar increase pattern in seedlings exposed to PS-NPs. Response to PS-NPs, the level of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and guaiacol peroxidase) and proline content were generally enhanced in roots and leaves of soybean. The expression level of stress-related genes examined in the study included CSD5, FSD3, APX1, and POD up-regulated in PS-NPs treated-soybean seedlings in a tissue specific manner. The results of the present study showed the adverse effects of PS-NPs on soybean seedlings, which may have important implications for the risk assessment of NPs on crop production and environmental safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonca Surgun-Acar
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale 17000, Turkey.
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24
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Arikan B, Alp FN, Ozfidan-Konakci C, Balci M, Elbasan F, Yildiztugay E, Cavusoglu H. Fe 2O 3-modified graphene oxide mitigates nanoplastic toxicity via regulating gas exchange, photosynthesis, and antioxidant system in Triticum aestivum. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:136048. [PMID: 35987272 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The ever-increasing plastic pollution in soil and water resources raises concerns about its effects on terrestrial plants and agroecosystems. Although there are many reports about the contamination with nanoplastics on plants, the presence of magneto-assisted nanomaterials enabling the removal of their adverse impacts still remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to evaluate the potential of nanomaterial Fe2O3-modified graphene oxide (FGO, 50-250 mg L-1) to eliminate the adverse effects of nanoplastics in plants. Wheat plants exposed to polystyrene nanoplastics concentrations (PS, 10, 50 and 100 mg L-1) showed decreased growth, water content and loss of photosynthetic efficiency. PS toxicity negatively altered gas exchange, antenna structure and electron transport in photosystems. Although the antioxidant system was partially activated (only superoxide dismutase (SOD), NADPH oxidase (NOX) and glutathione reductase (GR)) in plants treated with PS, it failed to prevent PS-triggered oxidative damage, as showing lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels. FGOs eliminated the adverse impacts of PS pollution on growth, water status, gas exchange and oxidative stress markers. In addition, FGOs preserve the biochemical reactions of photosynthesis by actively increasing chlorophyll fluorescence parameters in the stressed-wheat leaves. The activities of all enzymatic antioxidants increased, and the H2O2 and TBARS contents decreased. GSH-mediated detoxifying antioxidants such as glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) were stimulated by FGOs against PS pollution. FGOs also triggered the enzymes and non-enzymes related to the Asada-Halliwell cycle and protected the regeneration of ascorbate (AsA) and glutathione (GSH). Our findings indicated that FGO had the potential to mitigate nanoplastic-induced damage in wheat by regulating water relations, protecting photosynthesis reactions and providing efficient ROS scavenging with high antioxidant capacity. This is the first report on removing PS-induced damage by FGO applications in wheat leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busra Arikan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Fatma Nur Alp
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Ceyda Ozfidan-Konakci
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, 42090, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Melike Balci
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Fevzi Elbasan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Evren Yildiztugay
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Halit Cavusoglu
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University, Selcuklu, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
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