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Aloi N, Calarco A, Curcuruto G, Di Natale M, Augello G, Carroccio SC, Cerruti P, Cervello M, Cuttitta A, Colombo P, Longo V. Photoaging of polystyrene-based microplastics amplifies inflammatory response in macrophages. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143131. [PMID: 39168382 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The continuous release of municipal and industrial products into the environment poses a growing concern for public health. Among environmental pollutants, polystyrene (PS) stands out as a primary constituent of environmental plastic waste, given its widespread use and high production rates owing to its durability and user-friendly properties. The detection of polystyrene microparticles (PS-MPs) in various living organisms has been well-documented, posing a serious threat due to their potential passage into the human ecosystem. In this manuscript, we aimed to study the toxicological effects of low concentrations of pristine and photoaged PS-MPs in a murine macrophage cell line. To this purpose, PS-MPs were photoaged by indoor exposure to visible light to simulate environmental weathering due to solar irradiation (PS-MPs3h). Physical characterization revealed that the irradiation treatment results in particle degradation and the possible release of nanoparticles. Monocultures of the RAW264.7 cell line were then exposed to PS-MPs and PS-MPs3h at concentrations comparable to experimental measurements from biological samples, to assess cytotoxicity, intracellular oxidative stress, primary genotoxicity, and inflammatory effects. Significant toxicity-related outcomes were observed in cells treated with both pristine PS-MPs and PS-MPs3h even at low concentrations (0,10 μg/ml and 1 μg/ml). PS-MPs3h exhibited greater adverse effects compared to PS-MPs, including reduced cell viability, increased ROS production, elevated DNA damage, and upregulation of IL-6 and NOS2 gene expression. Therefore, we can conclude that changes induced by environmental aging in the physicochemical composition of PS microplastics play a crucial role in the adverse health outcomes associated with microplastic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Aloi
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Calarco
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council of Italy (IRET-CNR), Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giusy Curcuruto
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy (IPCB-CNR), Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 9, 95126, Catania, Italy
| | - Marilena Di Natale
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean, National Research Council of Italy (ISMED-CNR), Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Sabrina Carola Carroccio
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy (IPCB-CNR), Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 9, 95126, Catania, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Cerruti
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy (IPCB-CNR), Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean, National Research Council of Italy (ISMED-CNR), Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Valeria Longo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
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2
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Yalameha B, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R, Khaki-Khatibi F, Nourazarian A. Plastic particle impacts on the cardiovascular system and angiogenesis potential. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2. [PMID: 39126457 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The extensive application of plastics in different sectors such as packaging, building, textiles, consumer products, and several industries has increased in recent years. Emerging data have confirmed that plastic wastes and segregates are problematic issues in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The decomposition of plastic particles (PPs) leads to the release of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) into the surrounding environment and entry of these particles will be problematic in unicellular and multicellular creatures. It was suggested that PPs can easily cross all biological barriers and reach different organs, especially the cardiovascular system, with the potential to modulate several molecular pathways. It is postulated that the direct interaction of PPs with cellular and subcellular components induces genotoxicity and cytotoxicity within the cardiovascular system. Meanwhile, being inert carriers, PPs can intensify the toxicity of other contaminants inside the cardiovascular system. Here, in this review article, several underlying mechanisms related to PP toxicity in the cardiovascular system were discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafsheh Yalameha
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Khaki-Khatibi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Alireza Nourazarian
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
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3
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Winiarska E, Jutel M, Zemelka-Wiacek M. The potential impact of nano- and microplastics on human health: Understanding human health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118535. [PMID: 38460665 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118535] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are used all over the world. Unfortunately, due to limited biodegradation, plastics cause a significant level of environmental pollution. The smallest recognized to date are termed nanoplastics (1 nm [nm] up to 1 μm [μm]) and microplastics (1 μm-5 mm). These nano- and microplastics can enter the human body through the respiratory system via inhalation, the digestive tract via consumption of contaminated food and water, or penetration through the skin via cosmetics and clothes contact. Bioaccumulation of plastics in the human body can potentially lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory disorders like lung cancer, asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, neurological symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness, inflammatory bowel disease and even disturbances in gut microbiota. Most studies to date have confirmed that nano- and microplastics can induce apoptosis in cells and have genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of plastics' actions may help extrapolate the risks to humans. The article provides a comprehensive review of articles in databases regarding the impact of nano- and microplastics on human health. The review included retrospective studies and case reports of people exposed to nanoplastics and microplastics. This research highlights the need for further research to fully understand the extent of the impact of plastics on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Winiarska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
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4
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Liu F, Hutchinson R. Visible particles in parenteral drug products: A review of current safety assessment practice. Curr Res Toxicol 2024; 7:100175. [PMID: 38975062 PMCID: PMC11223083 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100175] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Parenteral drug products (PDPs) are administered extensively to treat various diseases. Product quality plays a critical role in ensuring patient safety and product efficacy. One important quality challenge is the contamination of particles in PDPs. Particle presence in PDPs represents potential safety risk to patients. Differential guidance and practice have been in place for visible (VPs) and subvisible particles (SVPs) in PDPs. For SVPs, the amount limits have been harmonized in multiple Pharmacopeias. The pharmaceutical industry follows the guided limits for regulatory and quality compliance. However, for VPs, no such acceptable limit has been set. This results in not only quality but also safety challenges for manufacturers and drug developers in managing and evaluating VPs. It is important to understand the potential safety risk of VPs so these can be weighed against the benefit of the PDPs. To evaluate their potential risk(s), it is necessary to understand their nature, origin, frequency of their occurrence, safety risk, the risk mitigation measures, and the method to evaluate their safety. The current paper reviews the critical literature on these aspects and provides insight into considerations when performing safety assessment and managing the risk(s) for VPs in PDPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Liu
- Safe Product Services LLC, Pittsfield, MA, USA
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5
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Köktürk M, Özgeriş FB, Atamanalp M, Uçar A, Özdemir S, Parlak V, Duyar HA, Alak G. Microplastic-induced oxidative stress response in turbot and potential intake by humans. Drug Chem Toxicol 2024; 47:296-305. [PMID: 36656072 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2023.2168690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a health concern subject in recent years. Althoughann increasing number of studies about the ingestion of microplastics by fish, research on the oxidative stress response to MPs in natural environments is quite limited. In this study, the identification and characterization of MPs in gill (G), muscle tissues (M), and gastrointestinal tract (GI) of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) were evaluated. Oxidative damage of MPs on the brain (B), liver (L), gill (G), and muscle (M) tissues as well as their effect on superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), paraoxonase (PON), arylesterase (AR) myeloperoxidase (MPO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) biomarkers were evaluated. The potential transmission of MPs from muscle tissues to humans was examined. Results showed that gills contain the highest amounts of MPs, ethylene propylene is the most dominant polymer type, black and blue are the most common MP color, fiber is the most common shape, and 50-200 µm is the most common MP size. Results showed that MPs cause oxidative stress of tissues with inhibiting effect on enzyme activities and promoting impact on lipid peroxidation. The oxidative damage mostly affected the liver (detoxification organ) followed by gill tissue. The intake of MPS in the European Union was estimated by EFSA as 119 items/year, while in Turkey it is 47.88 items/year. This study shows that more research is needed in terms of ecosystem health and food chain safety. The risk assessment of MPs in living organisms and environmental matrices including food safety and human health should be considered a public health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mine Köktürk
- Department of Organic Agriculture Management, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Igdir University, Igdir, Turkey
| | - Fatma Betül Özgeriş
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Atamanalp
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Arzu Uçar
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Süleyman Özdemir
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Fisheries, Sinop University, Sinop, Turkey
| | - Veysel Parlak
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Hünkar Avni Duyar
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Sinop University, Sinop, Turkey
| | - Gonca Alak
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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6
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Winiarska E, Chaszczewska-Markowska M, Ghete D, Jutel M, Zemelka-Wiacek M. Nanoplastics Penetrate Human Bronchial Smooth Muscle and Small Airway Epithelial Cells and Affect Mitochondrial Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4724. [PMID: 38731941 PMCID: PMC11083782 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094724] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastic particles, including common forms like polyethylene and polystyrene, have been identified as relevant pollutants, potentially causing health problems in living organisms. The mechanisms at the cellular level largely remain to be elucidated. This study aims to visualize nanoplastics in bronchial smooth muscle (BSMC) and small airway epithelial cells (SAEC), and to assess the impact on mitochondrial metabolism. Healthy and asthmatic human BSMC and SAEC in vitro cultures were stimulated with polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) of 25 or 50 nm size, for 1 or 24 h. Live cell, label-free imaging by holotomography microscopy and mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis assessment were performed. Furthermore, 25 and 50 nm NPs were shown to penetrate SAEC, along with healthy and diseased BSMC, and they impaired bioenergetics and induce mitochondrial dysfunction compared to cells not treated with NPs, including changes in oxygen consumption rate and extracellular acidification rate. NPs pose a serious threat to human health by penetrating airway tissues and cells, and affecting both oxidative and glycolytic metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Winiarska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-616 Wroclaw, Poland; (E.W.)
| | - Monika Chaszczewska-Markowska
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Ghete
- Bioscience Technology Facility, Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-616 Wroclaw, Poland; (E.W.)
- ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, 53-201 Wroclaw, Poland
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7
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Zeng G, Li J, Wang Y, Su J, Lu Z, Zhang F, Ding W. Polystyrene microplastic-induced oxidative stress triggers intestinal barrier dysfunction via the NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β/MCLK pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123473. [PMID: 38301820 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123473] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Emerging evidence has demonstrated the association between microplastics (MPs) with a diameter of <5 mm and the risk of intestinal diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms contributing to MP-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction have not been fully appreciated. In this study, C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs, 0.2, 1 or 5 μm) at 1 mg/kg body weight daily by oral gavage for 28 days. We found that PS-MPs exposure induced oxidative stress and inflammatory cell infiltration in mice colon, leading to an increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine. Moreover, there were an increase in intestinal permeability and decrease in mucus secretion, accompanied by downregulation of tight junction (TJ)-related zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), occluding (OCLN) and claudin-1 (CLDN-1) in mice colon. Especially, 5 μm PS-MPs (PS5)-induced intestinal epithelial TJ barrier damage was more severe than 0.2 μm PS-MPs (PS0.2) and 1 μm PS-MPs (PS1). In vitro experiments indicated that PS5-induced oxidative stress upregulated the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). Meanwhile, pre-treatment with the antioxidant NAC, NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 and MLCK inhibitor ML-7 considerably reduced PS5-triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and inflammatory response, inhibited the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/MLCK pathway, and upregulated ZO-1, OCLN and CLDN-1 expression in Caco-2 cells. Taken together, our study demonstrated that PS-MPs cause intestinal barrier dysfunction through the ROS-dependent NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β/MLCK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Zeng
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuanli Wang
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingran Su
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhongbing Lu
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wenjun Ding
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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8
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De Boever S, Devisscher L, Vinken M. Unraveling the micro- and nanoplastic predicament: A human-centric insight. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170262. [PMID: 38253106 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170262] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics are vast anthropogenic pollutants in our direct surroundings with a robust environmental stability and a potential for a long-lasting and increasing global circulation. This has raised concerns among the public and policy makers for human health upon exposure to these particles. The micro- and nanoplastic burden on humans is currently under debate, along with criticism on the experimental approaches used in hazard assessment. The present review presents an overview of the human-relevant aspects associated with the current micro-and nanoplastic burden. We focus on environmental circulation and the estimation of exposure quantities to humans, along with a state-of-the-art overview of particle accumulation in over 15 human organs and other specimen. Additionally, data regarding particle characteristics used in toxicity testing was extracted from 91 studies and discussed considering their environmental and human relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybren De Boever
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Lindsey Devisscher
- Gut-Liver Immunopharmacology Unit, Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Liver Research Centre Ghent, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiteit Gent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Entity of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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9
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Bakan B, Kalčec N, Liu S, Ilić K, Qi Y, Capjak I, Božičević L, Peranić N, Vrček IV. Science-based evidence on pathways and effects of human exposure to micro- and nanoplastics. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2024; 75:1-14. [PMID: 38548377 PMCID: PMC10978163 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2024-75-3807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Human exposure to plastic particles has raised great concern among all relevant stakeholders involved in the protection of human health due to the contamination of the food chain, surface waters, and even drinking water as well as due to their persistence and bioaccumulation. Now more than ever, it is critical that we understand the biological fate of plastics and their interaction with different biological systems. Because of the ubiquity of plastic materials in the environment and their toxic potential, it is imperative to gain reliable, regulatory-relevant, science-based data on the effects of plastic micro- and nanoparticles (PMNPs) on human health in order to implement reliable risk assessment and management strategies in the circular economy of plastics. This review presents current knowledge of human-relevant PMNP exposure doses, pathways, and toxic effects. It addresses difficulties in properly assessing plastic exposure and current knowledge gaps and proposes steps that can be taken to underpin health risk perception, assessment, and mitigation through rigorous science-based evidence. Based on the existing scientific data on PMNP adverse health effects, this review brings recommendations on the development of PMNP-specific adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) following the AOP Users' Handbook of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Buket Bakan
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
- Atatürk University Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Nikolina Kalčec
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sijin Liu
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Krunoslav Ilić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Yu Qi
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ivona Capjak
- Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Božičević
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nikolina Peranić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Alzaben M, Burve R, Loeschner K, Møller P, Roursgaard M. Nanoplastics from ground polyethylene terephthalate food containers: Genotoxicity in human lung epithelial A549 cells. MUTATION RESEARCH. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2023; 892:503705. [PMID: 37973296 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2023.503705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous pollution of plastic particles in most environmental matrices leads to concern about any potential adverse effects on human health. Most studies on the toxicological effect of nanoplastics has focused on standard particles of polystyrene. In reality humans are exposed to a large variety of different types and sizes of plastic material via oral intake and inhalation. In this study, we investigated the effect of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nanoplastic particles from ground food containers from a supermarket. The aim was to investigate a possible link between exposure to PET nanoplastics and genotoxic response in a cell model of the human airway epithelial (A549) cells. Further, we investigated the combined effect of PET and chemicals known to alter the cellular redox state, as a model of partially compromised antioxidant defense system. DNA damage was assessed by the alkaline comet assay. The ground PET nanoplastics have a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 136 nm in water. The results showed that PET exposure led to increased reactive oxygen species production (approximately 30 % increase compared to unexposed cells). In addition, exposure to PET nanoplastic increased the level of DNA strand breaks (net increase = 0.10 lesions/106 base pair, 95 % confidence interval: 0.01, 0.18 lesions/106 base pair). Pre- or post-exposure to hydrogen peroxide or buthionine sulfoximine did not lead to a higher level of DNA damage. Overall, the study shows that exposure to PET nanoplastics increases both intracellular reactive oxygen production and DNA damage in A549 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alzaben
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Regina Burve
- Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, Technical University of Denmark, Anker Engelunds Vej 301, DK-2800, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Katrin Loeschner
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 201, DK-2800, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
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11
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Pontecorvi P, Ceccarelli S, Cece F, Camero S, Lotti LV, Niccolai E, Nannini G, Gerini G, Anastasiadou E, Scialis ES, Romano E, Venneri MA, Amedei A, Angeloni A, Megiorni F, Marchese C. Assessing the Impact of Polyethylene Nano/Microplastic Exposure on Human Vaginal Keratinocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11379. [PMID: 37511139 PMCID: PMC10380279 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The global rise of single-use throw-away plastic products has elicited a massive increase in the nano/microplastics (N/MPLs) exposure burden in humans. Recently, it has been demonstrated that disposable period products may release N/MPLs with usage, which represents a potential threat to women's health which has not been scientifically addressed yet. By using polyethyl ene (PE) particles (200 nm to 9 μm), we showed that acute exposure to a high concentration of N/MPLs induced cell toxicity in vaginal keratinocytes after effective cellular uptake, as viability and apoptosis data suggest, along with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations. The internalised N/MPLs altered the expression of junctional and adherence proteins and the organisation of the actin cortex, influencing the level of genes involved in oxidative stress signalling pathways and that of miRNAs related to epithelial barrier function. When the exposure to PE N/MPLs was discontinued or became chronic, cells were able to recover from the negative effects on viability and differentiation/proliferation gene expression in a few days. However, in all cases, PE N/MPL exposure prompted a sustained alteration of DNA methyltransferase and DNA demethylase expression, which might impact epigenetic regulation processes, leading to accelerated cell ageing and inflammation, or the occurrence of malignant transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pontecorvi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Ceccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Cece
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Camero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Vittoria Lotti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Niccolai
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Nannini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Gerini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Anastasiadou
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Sofia Scialis
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University "G. D'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Enrico Romano
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Antonio Angeloni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Megiorni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Marchese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
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12
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Møller P, Roursgaard M. Exposure to nanoplastic particles and DNA damage in mammalian cells. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2023; 792:108468. [PMID: 37666295 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2023.108468] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
There is concern about human exposure to nanoplastics from intentional use or degradation of plastics in the environment. This review assesses genotoxic effects of nanoplastics, defined as particles with a primary size of less than 1000 nm. The majority of results on genotoxicity come from studies on polystyrene (PS) particles in mammalian cell cultures. Most studies have measured DNA strand breaks (standard comet assay), oxidatively damaged DNA (Fpg-modified comet assay) and micronuclei. Twenty-nine out of 60 results have shown statistically significant genotoxic effects by PS exposure in cell cultures. A statistical analysis indicates that especially modified PS particles are genotoxic (odds ratio = 8.6, 95 % CI: 1.6, 46) and immune cells seems to be more sensitive to genotoxicity than other cell types such as epithelial cells (odds ratio = 8.0, 95 % CI: 1.6, 39). On the contrary, there is not a clear association between statistically significant effects in genotoxicity tests and the primary size of PS particles, (i.e. smaller versus larger than 100 nm) or between the type of genotoxic endpoint (i.e. repairable versus permanent DNA lesions). Three studies of PS particle exposure in animals have shown increased level of DNA strand breaks in leukocytes and prefrontal cortex cells. Nanoplastics from polyethylene, propylene, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate have been investigated in very few studies and it is currently not possible to draw conclusion about their genotoxic hazard. In summary, there is some evidence suggesting that PS particles may be genotoxic in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
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13
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Kaur J, Kelpsiene E, Gupta G, Dobryden I, Cedervall T, Fadeel B. Label-free detection of polystyrene nanoparticles in Daphnia magna using Raman confocal mapping. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:3453-3462. [PMID: 37383076 PMCID: PMC10295233 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00323j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastic pollution has emerged as a global environmental problem. Moreover, plastic particles are of increasing concern for human health. However, the detection of so-called nanoplastics in relevant biological compartments remains a challenge. Here we show that Raman confocal spectroscopy-microscopy can be deployed for the non-invasive detection of amine-functionalized and carboxy-functionalized polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles (NPs) in Daphnia magna. The presence of PS NPs in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of D. magna was confirmed by using transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, we investigated the ability of NH2-PS NPs and COOH-PS NPs to disrupt the epithelial barrier of the GI tract using the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29. To this end, the cells were differentiated for 21 days and then exposed to PS NPs followed by cytotoxicity assessment and transepithelial electrical resistance measurements. A minor disruption of barrier integrity was noted for COOH-PS NPs, but not for the NH2-PS NPs, while no overt cytotoxicity was observed for both NPs. This study provides evidence of the feasibility of applying label-free approaches, i.e., confocal Raman mapping, to study PS NPs in a biological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasreen Kaur
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 13 171 77 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Egle Kelpsiene
- NanoLund, Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University Lund Sweden
| | - Govind Gupta
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 13 171 77 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Illia Dobryden
- Department of Material and Surface Design, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden Stockholm Sweden
| | - Tommy Cedervall
- NanoLund, Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University Lund Sweden
| | - Bengt Fadeel
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 13 171 77 Stockholm Sweden
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14
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He S, Wang J, Zhou L, Jia T, Mao Z, Zhang X, Zhang L, Wang J, Yang M, Huang P. Short term exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics in mice evokes self-regulation of glycolipid metabolism. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 256:114906. [PMID: 37062265 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114906] [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: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
With the detection of nano-plastics (NPs) in daily essentials and drinking water, the potential harm of NPs to human health has become the focus of global attention. Studies have shown that long term exposure to NPs can lead to disorders of glucose and lipid metabolism in organisms, while the effects of short term exposure are rarely reported. Moreover, environmental factors cause the aging of NPs, and it is unclear whether this has an effect on their toxicity. In this study, we use 100 nm polystyrene (PS) NPs and ultraviolet (UV) aging PS (aPS) NPs to gavage mice for 7 days at an exposure dose of 50 mg/kg/day. To evaluate the effects of exposure on mice hepatic glucose lipid metabolism, we performed blood biochemical, pathological and metabolomic analyses. The results showed that exposure to PS NPs and aPS NPs increased serum glucose, disrupted serum lipoprotein levels, and up-regulated the expression levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/ phosphoprotein kinase B (p-AKT)/Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) proteins in the glucose metabolism pathway. The expression levels of key proteins sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ)/adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) in the lipid metabolism signaling pathway were significantly increased. These findings suggest that short term exposure to PS NPs and aPS NPs induces glycolipid metabolism disturbance in mice, which may subsequently awaken the mice to self-regulate the serum levels of various lipoproteins and the expression of related key proteins. Compared with PS NPs, the aPS NPs interfered more strongly with glucose metabolism, and the corresponding self-regulation in mice was also more obvious. These findings not only provide a basis for environmental factors to increase the health risk of NPs but also provided a reference for the selection of test substances for further studies on the toxicity of NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu He
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jingran Wang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lihong Zhou
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Tianjiang Jia
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhen Mao
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lingyan Zhang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Ji Wang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Man Yang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Peili Huang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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15
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Schmidt A, Mühl M, Brito WADS, Singer D, Bekeschus S. Antioxidant Defense in Primary Murine Lung Cells following Short- and Long-Term Exposure to Plastic Particles. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020227. [PMID: 36829786 PMCID: PMC9952747 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Polystyrene nano- and micro-sized plastic particles (NMP) are one of the common plastic materials produced that dramatically pollute the environment, water, and oceanic habitats worldwide. NMP are continuously absorbed by the body through a number of routes, especially via intestinal ingestion, dermal uptake, and inhalation into the lung. Several studies provided evidence of NMP provoking oxidative stress and affecting cellular responses. Yet, the NMP effects on primary lung cells have not been studied. To this end, we isolated and cultured murine lung cells and exposed them short-term or long-term to polystyrene 0.2-6.0 µm-sized NMP. We studied cellular consequences regarding oxidative stress, morphology, and secretion profiling. Visualization, distribution, and expression analyses confirmed lung cells accumulating NMP and showed several significant correlations with particle size. Moreover, we found substantial evidence of biological consequences of small-scale NMP uptake in lung cells. Besides alterations of cytokine secretion profiles resulting in inflammatory responses, indicators of oxidative stress were identified that were accompanied by Nrf2 and β-catenin signaling changes. Our results serve as an important basis to point out the potential hazards of plastic contaminations and uptake in lung cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Schmidt
- ZIK Plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Melissa Mühl
- ZIK Plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Walison Augusto da Silva Brito
- ZIK Plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
- Department of General Pathology, State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Londrina 86020-000, Brazil
| | - Debora Singer
- ZIK Plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Rostock University Medical Center, Strempelstr. 13, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK Plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
- Correspondence:
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16
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Schmidt A, da Silva Brito WA, Singer D, Mühl M, Berner J, Saadati F, Wolff C, Miebach L, Wende K, Bekeschus S. Short- and long-term polystyrene nano- and microplastic exposure promotes oxidative stress and divergently affects skin cell architecture and Wnt/beta-catenin signaling. Part Fibre Toxicol 2023; 20:3. [PMID: 36647127 PMCID: PMC9844005 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-023-00513-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nano- and microplastic particles (NMP) are strong environmental contaminants affecting marine ecosystems and human health. The negligible use of biodegradable plastics and the lack of knowledge about plastic uptake, accumulation, and functional consequences led us to investigate the short- and long-term effects in freshly isolated skin cells from mice. Using fluorescent NMP of several sizes (200 nm to 6 µm), efficient cellular uptake was observed, causing, however, only minor acute toxicity as metabolic activity and apoptosis data suggested, albeit changes in intracellular reactive species and thiol levels were observed. The internalized NMP induced an altered expression of various targets of the nuclear factor-2-related transcription factor 2 pathway and were accompanied by changed antioxidant and oxidative stress signaling responses, as suggested by altered heme oxygenase 1 and glutathione peroxide 2 levels. A highly increased beta-catenin expression under acute but not chronic NMP exposure was concomitant with a strong translocation from membrane to the nucleus and subsequent transcription activation of Wnt signaling target genes after both single-dose and chronic long-term NMP exposure. Moreover, fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation accompanied by an increase of α smooth muscle actin and collagen expression was observed. Together with several NMP-induced changes in junctional and adherence protein expression, our study for the first time elucidates the acute and chronic effects of NMP of different sizes in primary skin cells' signaling and functional biology, contributing to a better understanding of nano- and microplastic to health risks in higher vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Schmidt
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Walison Augusto da Silva Brito
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany ,grid.411400.00000 0001 2193 3537Department of General Pathology, State University of Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Debora Singer
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Melissa Mühl
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Julia Berner
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany ,grid.5603.0Department Oral, Maxillofacial, and Plastic Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., Greifswald, Germany
| | - Fariba Saadati
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Christina Wolff
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lea Miebach
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany ,grid.5603.0Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, Greifswald University Medical Center, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Str., Greifswald, Germany
| | - Kristian Wende
- grid.461720.60000 0000 9263 3446ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489, Greifswald, Germany.
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17
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Pironti C, Notarstefano V, Ricciardi M, Motta O, Giorgini E, Montano L. First Evidence of Microplastics in Human Urine, a Preliminary Study of Intake in the Human Body. TOXICS 2022; 11:toxics11010040. [PMID: 36668766 PMCID: PMC9867291 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) and their health effects is a recent scientific topic. However, the investigation of MPs in human/biological matrices has several limitations due to analytical methods and sample treatment protocols. In this study, the presence of MPs in the urine samples of six volunteers from different cities in the south of Italy (three men and three women) was investigated by Raman microspectroscopy. The analysis pinpointed four pigmented microplastic fragments (4-15 μm size), with irregular shapes, which were characterized in terms of morphology and chemical composition. Polyethylene vinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE) MPs were found in four samples (PVA and PVC in one female sample and PP and PE in three male samples). This preliminary study suggests that MPs could pass through the gastrointestinal tract and are eliminated through biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Pironti
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Valentina Notarstefano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, DiSVA, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Maria Ricciardi
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Oriana Motta
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giorgini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, DiSVA, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60121 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (Eco-Food Fertility Project), “S. Francesco di Assisi Hospital”, 84020 Oliveto Citra, SA, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, RM, Italy
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18
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Alak G, Köktürk M, Ucar A, Parlak V, Kocaman EM, Atamanalp M. Thermal processing implications on microplastics in rainbow trout fillet. J Food Sci 2022; 87:5455-5466. [DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.16382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gonca Alak
- Department of Seafood Technology Faculty of Fisheries Ataturk University Erzurum Turkey
| | - Mine Köktürk
- Department of Organic Farming School of Applied Science Iğdır University ğdır Turkey
| | - Arzu Ucar
- Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Fisheries Ataturk University Erzurum Turkey
| | - Veysel Parlak
- Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Fisheries Ataturk University Erzurum Turkey
| | - Esat Mahmut Kocaman
- Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Fisheries Ataturk University Erzurum Turkey
| | - Muhammed Atamanalp
- Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Fisheries Ataturk University Erzurum Turkey
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19
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Chen H, Chen H, Nan S, Liu H, Chen L, Yu L. Investigation of Microplastics in Digestion System: Effect on Surface Microstructures and Probiotics. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2022; 109:882-892. [PMID: 35920852 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-022-03571-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There are increasingly attentions on the pollution from microplastics, especially the impact on human health. This work focuses on one hand the effect of digestion system on the surface microstructures of microplastics from the most popular sources such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride. On the other hand, how these microplastic affect probiotics in digestion system was also investigated to evaluate their toxicity on health. All the samples were treated by in vitro simulating digestion consisting of three phases: oral, gastric and intestinal. There were no physical differences observed by both Scanning Electronic Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy, and no significant chemical changes detected by both Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy after digestion treatment. The effect of these microplastics on tested strains were investigated by in vitro culture method and results showed that polystyrene microplastics could inhibit the growth of the Lactobacillus significantly. The results indicated that the digestion system could not decompose microplastics, even on the surfaces, since plastics are inert due to their low chemical reactivity, but the microplastics might lead to imbalance of intestinal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Hongmei Chen
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Shugang Nan
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Hongsheng Liu
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Long Yu
- Centre for Polymers From Renewable Resources, School of Food Science and Engineering, SCUT, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Center for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health, Guangzhou, China.
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20
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Ye C, Pan Z, Shen Y. Facile Conversion of Polystyrene Waste into an Efficient Sorbent for Water Purification. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14214477. [PMID: 36365471 PMCID: PMC9655115 DOI: 10.3390/polym14214477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we convert a plastic waste, i.e., polystyrene (PS), into a sorbent by a simple sulfonation process. The sulfonation time was optimized and the structures of the resulting sulfonated polystyrene (SPS) was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray and contact angle tests. The results showed that the sulfonation time of 7 h can introduce abundant sulfonic groups and preserve the self-standing structure. Additionally, the SPS has a three-dimensional porous structure and hydrophilic surface because of the presence of numerous sulfonic groups, which could serve as effective binding sites for immobilizing varying pollutants. Furthermore, as a proof-of-concept, the adsorption performance of the SPS foams was evaluated using three pollutants, namely Pb2+, lysozyme and methylene blue. The adsorption isotherms were fitted by the Langmuir and Freundlich models, while the kinetics of the adsorption processes were analyzed using the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion equations. It was found that the adsorption isotherms of Pb2+ and lysozyme can be better described by the Langmuir model, leading to maximum equilibrium adsorption uptakes of 10.5 and 15.7 mg g−1 for the adsorption of Pb2+ and lysozyme, respectively. Importantly, the pollutant-saturated SPS is readily regenerated by acid washing, and the recovered sorbents exhibit outstanding cyclic performance. The abundant availability of feedstock, facile preparation and regeneration processes render the SPS foams a promising sorbent for practical applications.
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21
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Basini G, Bussolati S, Andriani L, Grolli S, Bertini S, Iemmi T, Menozzi A, Quintavalla F, Ramoni R, Serventi P, Grasselli F. The effects of nanoplastics on adipose stromal cells from swine tissues. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2022; 81:106747. [PMID: 35728298 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Plastic is one of the main sources of marine and terrestrial pollution. This material can fragment into micro- (<-5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs) (<100 nm) following degradation. Animals are exposed to these particles by ingesting contaminated food, respiration or filtration, and transdermally. In organisms, NPs can cross biological membranes, and cause oxidative stress, cell damage, apoptosis, and endocrine interference. We previously demonstrated that polystyrene - NPs interfered with ovarian cell functions. Since reproduction involves a high energy expenditure and a crucial role is played by adipose tissue, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of NPs on primary adipose stromal cells (ASCs) isolated from swine adipose tissues. In particular, the effects on cell viability, proliferation, metabolic activity, inflammatory process mediators and oxidative stress markers were assessed. The obtained results did not reveal a significant variation in cell proliferation, metabolic activity was increased (P < 0.01) but only at the lowest concentration, while viability showed a significant decrease after prolonged exposure to NPs (P < 0.01). TNF-α was increased (P < 0.05), while PAI-1 was inhibited (P < 0.001). Redox status was significantly modified; in particular, the production of O2-, H2O2 and NO was stimulated (P < 0.05), the non-enzymatic antioxidant power was reduced (P < 0.05) while catalase activity was significantly (P < 0.01) increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Basini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - S Bussolati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - L Andriani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - S Grolli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - S Bertini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - T Iemmi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - A Menozzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - F Quintavalla
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - R Ramoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - P Serventi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - F Grasselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Medico-Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy
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22
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Sangkham S, Faikhaw O, Munkong N, Sakunkoo P, Arunlertaree C, Chavali M, Mousazadeh M, Tiwari A. A review on microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment: Their occurrence, exposure routes, toxic studies, and potential effects on human health. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 181:113832. [PMID: 35716489 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging environmental pollutants, having a major ecotoxicological concern to humans and many other biotas, especially aquatic animals. The physical and chemical compositions of MPs majorly determine their ecotoxicological risks. However, comprehensive knowledge about the exposure routes and toxic effects of MPs/NPs on animals and human health is not fully known. Here this review focuses on the potential exposure routes, human health impacts, and toxicity response of MPs/NPs on human health, through reviewing the literature on studies conducted in different in vitro and in vivo experiments on organisms, human cells, and the human experimental exposure models. The current literature review has highlighted ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contacts as major exposure routes of MPs/NPs. Further, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, inflammation, immune response, neurotoxicity, metabolic disruption, and ultimately affecting digestive systems, immunology, respiratory systems, reproductive systems, and nervous systems, as serious health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarawut Sangkham
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Phayao, Muang District, Phayao 56000, Thailand.
| | - Orasai Faikhaw
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Permoserstrasse 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Narongsuk Munkong
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Phayao, Muang District, Phayao 56000, Thailand
| | - Pornpun Sakunkoo
- Department of Environmental Health, Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, Muang District, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Chumlong Arunlertaree
- Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Murthy Chavali
- Office of the Dean (Research) & Division of Chemistry, Department of Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Alliance University, Chandapura-Anekal Main Road, Bengaluru 562106, Karnataka, India
| | - Milad Mousazadeh
- Student research committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran; Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ananda Tiwari
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Neulaniementie 4, Kuopio, Finland
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23
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Roursgaard M, Hezareh Rothmann M, Schulte J, Karadimou I, Marinelli E, Møller P. Genotoxicity of Particles From Grinded Plastic Items in Caco-2 and HepG2 Cells. Front Public Health 2022; 10:906430. [PMID: 35875006 PMCID: PMC9298925 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.906430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Large plastic litters degrade in the environment to micro- and nanoplastics, which may then enter the food chain and lead to human exposure by ingestion. The present study explored ways to obtain nanoplastic particles from real-life food containers. The first set of experiments gave rise to polypropylene nanoplastic suspensions with a hydrodynamic particle size range between 100 and 600 nm, whereas the same grinding process of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) produced suspensions of particles with a primary size between 100 and 300 nm. The exposure did not cause cytotoxicity measured by the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and water soluble tetrazolium 1 (WST-1) assays in Caco-2 and HepG2 cells. Nanoplastics of transparent PET food containers produced a modest concentration-dependent increase in DNA strand breaks, measured by the alkaline comet assay [net induction of 0.28 lesions/106 bp at the highest concentration (95% CI: 0.04; 0.51 lesions/106 base pair)]. The exposure to nanoplastics from transparent polypropylene food containers was also positively associated with DNA strand breaks [i.e., net induction of 0.10 lesions/106 base pair (95% CI: −0.04; 0.23 lesions/106 base pair)] at the highest concentration. Nanoplastics from grinding of black colored PET food containers demonstrated no effect on HepG2 and Caco-2 cells in terms of cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species production or changes in cell cycle distribution. The net induction of DNA strand breaks was 0.43 lesions/106 bp (95% CI: 0.09; 0.78 lesions/106 bp) at the highest concentration of nanoplastics from black PET food containers. Collectively, the results indicate that exposure to nanoplastics from real-life consumer products can cause genotoxicity in cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Roursgaard
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monika Hezareh Rothmann
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Juliane Schulte
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ioanna Karadimou
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elena Marinelli
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Møller
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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24
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Yu G, Huang S, Luo X, Zhao W, Zheng Z. Single and combined toxicity effects of nanoplastics and bisphenol F on submerged the macrophyte Hydrilla verticillata. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 814:152564. [PMID: 34952055 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nano- and microplastics pose severe risks to the ecological environment. Nanoplastics (NPs) not only directly affect aquatic organisms, but also adsorb to other pollutants, resulting in compound pollution. Bisphenol F (BPF), an endocrine-disrupting chemical, is increasingly replacing bisphenol A (BPA) and is therefore widely distributed in the environment. In this study, the toxic effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and BPF and their combined exposure on the submerged macrophytes Hydrilla verticillata (H. verticillata) and leaf biofilms, were investigated. Results showed that 10 mg/L PS-NPs and combined exposure to 10 mg/L PS-NPs and 10 mg/L BPF significantly decreased the relative growth rate and chlorophyll content of H. verticillata, whereas BPF exposure alone had no impact on the growth and the contents of photosynthetic pigments in H. verticillata. Individual and combined exposure to PS-NPs and BPF can trigger antioxidant responses such as increased activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and malondialdehyde, as well as higher levels of glutathione S-transferase and glutathione and decreased catalase activity. The results of the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the nanoplastics particles were adsorbed on the surface of plant leaves, explaining their toxic effects, whereas BPF increases the sorption of PS-NPs on the surface of H. verticillata, potentially leading to PS-NPs enrichment in the food chain. The diversity and richness of the microbial community were altered by exposure to PS-NPs and BPF individually and in combination. The current study is the first to assess the effects of PS-NPs and BPF exposure on the growth, physiological characteristics, and leaf biofilm properties of submerged macrophytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui Yu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Suzhen Huang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Xingzhang Luo
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, PR China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
| | - Zheng Zheng
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, PR China.
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25
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Møller P, Roursgaard M. Biomarkers of DNA Oxidation Products: Links to Exposure and Disease in Public Health Studies. Chem Res Toxicol 2021; 34:2235-2250. [PMID: 34704445 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure can increase the production of reactive oxygen species and deplete cellular antioxidants in humans, resulting in oxidatively generated damage to DNA that is both a useful biomarker of oxidative stress and indicator of carcinogenic hazard. Methods of oxidatively damaged DNA analysis have been developed and used in public health research since the 1990s. Advanced techniques detect specific lesions, but they might not be applicable to complex matrixes (e.g., tissues), small sample volume, and large-scale studies. The most reliable methods are characterized by (1) detecting relevant DNA oxidation products (e.g., premutagenic lesions), (2) not harboring technical problems, (3) being applicable to complex biological mixtures, and (4) having the ability to process a large number of samples in a reasonable period of time. Most effort has been devoted to the measurements of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanine (8-oxodG), which can be analyzed by chromatographic, enzymic, and antibody-based methods. Results from validation trials have shown that certain chromatographic and enzymic assays (namely the comet assay) are superior techniques. The enzyme-modified comet assay has been popular because it is technically simpler than chromatographic assays. It is widely used in public health studies on environmental exposures such as outdoor air pollution. Validated biomarker assays on oxidatively damaged DNA have been used to fill knowledge gaps between findings in prospective cohort studies and hazards from contemporary sources of air pollution exposures. Results from each of these research fields feed into public health research as approaches to conduct primary prevention of diseases caused by environmental or occupational agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Møller
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
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26
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Domenech J, de Britto M, Velázquez A, Pastor S, Hernández A, Marcos R, Cortés C. Long-Term Effects of Polystyrene Nanoplastics in Human Intestinal Caco-2 Cells. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101442. [PMID: 34680075 PMCID: PMC8533059 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing presence of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPLs) in the environment, and their consequent accumulation in trophic niches, could pose a potential health threat to humans, especially due to their chronic ingestion. In vitro studies using human cells are considered pertinent approaches to determine potential health risks to humans. Nevertheless, most of such studies have been conducted using short exposure times and high concentrations. Since human exposure to MNPLs is supposed to be chronic, there is a lack of information regarding the potential in vitro MNPLs effects under chronic exposure conditions. To this aim, we assessed the accumulation and potential outcomes of polystyrene nanoparticles (PSNPs), as a model of MNPLs, in undifferentiated Caco-2 cells (as models of cell target in ingestion exposures) under a relevant long-term exposure scenario, consisting of eight weeks of exposure to sub-toxic PSNPs concentrations. In such exposure conditions, culture-media was changed every 2–3 days to maintain constant exposure. The different analyzed endpoints were cytotoxicity, dysregulation of stress-related genes, genotoxicity, oxidative DNA damage, and intracellular ROS levels. These are endpoints that showed to be sensitive enough in different studies. The obtained results attest that PSNPs accumulate in the cells through time, inducing changes at the ultrastructural and molecular levels. Nevertheless, minor changes in the different evaluated genotoxicity-related biomarkers were observed. This would indicate that no DNA damage or oxidative stress is observed in the human intestinal Caco-2 cells after long-term exposure to PSNPs. This is the first study dealing with the long-term effects of PSNPs on human cultured cells.
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27
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Pironti C, Ricciardi M, Motta O, Miele Y, Proto A, Montano L. Microplastics in the Environment: Intake through the Food Web, Human Exposure and Toxicological Effects. TOXICS 2021; 9:224. [PMID: 34564375 PMCID: PMC8473407 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9090224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, studies on microplastics (MPs) have increased rapidly due to the growing awareness of the potential health risks related to their occurrence. The first part of this review is devoted to MP occurrence, distribution, and quantification. MPs can be transferred from the environment to humans mainly through inhalation, secondly from ingestion, and, to a lesser extent, through dermal contact. As regards food web contamination, we discuss the microplastic presence not only in the most investigated sources, such as seafood, drinking water, and salts, but also in other foods such as honey, sugar, milk, fruit, and meat (chickens, cows, and pigs). All literature data suggest not-negligible human exposure to MPs through the above-mentioned routes. Consequently, several research efforts have been devoted to assessing potential human health risks. Initially, toxicological studies were conducted with aquatic organisms and then with experimental mammal animal models and human cell cultures. In the latter case, toxicological effects were observed at high concentrations of MPs (polystyrene is the most common MP benchmark) for a short time. Further studies must be performed to assess the real consequences of MP contamination at low concentrations and prolonged exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Pironti
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Maria Ricciardi
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Oriana Motta
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Ylenia Miele
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (Y.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonio Proto
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (Y.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (Eco-FoodFertility Project), “S. Francesco di Assisi Hospital”, 84020 Oliveto Citra, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
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28
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Measurement of Low Concentration of Micro-Plastics by Detection of Bioaffinity-Induced Particle Retention Using Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensors. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2021; 11:bios11070219. [PMID: 34356691 PMCID: PMC8301956 DOI: 10.3390/bios11070219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The issue of micro-plastics is becoming more and more important due to their ubiquity and the harm they cause to the human body. Therefore, evaluating the biological–physical interaction of micro-plastics with health cells has become the focus of many research efforts. This study focuses on the movement mode and low concentration detection development for micro-plastics in surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Firstly, 20-micrometer micro-plastics were prepared by grinding and filtering, and the movement mode was explored; then, the characteristics were investigated by SPR. Chromatographic analysis showed that the surface charge of micro-plastics dominated the elution time, and estrogen receptors (ERs) played a supporting role. A difference of micro-plastics in SPR sensorgram was observed, inferring the micro-plastics’ movement in rolling mode on the ERs. Characteristics analysis indicated that the low particle number of micro-plastics on SPR showed a linear relationship with the response unit (RU). When ERs were immobilized on the biosensor, the force of the binding of micro-plastics to ERs under an ultra-low background was equivalent to the dissociation rate constant shown as follows: PS (0.05 nM) > PVC (0.09 nM) > PE (0.14 nM). The ELISA-like magnetic beads experiment verified the specificity between ERs and micro-plastics. Therefore, by using the SPR technique, a biological-derived over-occupation of PS was found via higher binding force with ERs and longer retention time. In the future, there will be considerable potential for micro-plastics issues, such as identification in natural samples, biomarking, real-time detection in specific environments/regions and human health subject.
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29
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Mahadevan G, Valiyaveettil S. Comparison of Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity of Polyvinyl Chloride and Poly(methyl methacrylate) Nanoparticles on Normal Human Lung Cell Lines. Chem Res Toxicol 2021; 34:1468-1480. [PMID: 33861932 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.0c00391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
High concentrations of micro- and nanoparticles of common plastic materials present in the environment are causing an adverse health impact on living organisms. As a model study, here we report the synthesis and characterization of luminescent polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanoparticles and investigate the interaction with normal human lung fibroblast cells (IMR 90) to understand the uptake, translocation, and toxicity of PVC and PMMA nanoparticles. The synthesized particles are in the size range of 120-140 nm with a negative surface potential. The colocalization and uptake efficiency of the nanoparticles were analyzed, and the cytotoxicity assay shows significant reduction in cell viability. Cellular internalization was investigated using colocalization and dynasore inhibitor tests, which showed that the PVC and PMMA nanoparticles enter into the cell via endocytosis. The polymer nanoparticles induced a reduction in viability, decrease in adenosine triphosphate, and increase in reactive oxygen species and lactate dehydrogenase concentrations. In addition, the polymer nanoparticles caused cell cycle arrest at sub-G1, G0/G1, and G2/M phases, followed by apoptotic cell death. Our results reported here are important to the emerging data on understanding the impact of common polymer particles on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gomathi Mahadevan
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543
| | - Suresh Valiyaveettil
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543
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30
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Caputo F, Vogel R, Savage J, Vella G, Law A, Della Camera G, Hannon G, Peacock B, Mehn D, Ponti J, Geiss O, Aubert D, Prina-Mello A, Calzolai L. Measuring particle size distribution and mass concentration of nanoplastics and microplastics: addressing some analytical challenges in the sub-micron size range. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 588:401-417. [PMID: 33422789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2020.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The implementation of the proposal from the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) to restrict the use of nanoplastics (NP) and microplastics (MP) in consumer products will require reliable methods to perform size and mass-based concentration measurements. Analytical challenges arise at the nanometre to micrometre interface, e.g., 800 nm-10 µm, where techniques applicable at the nanometre scale reach their upper limit of applicability and approaches applicable at the micrometre scale must be pushed to their lower limits of detection. EXPERIMENTS Herein, we compared the performances of nine analytical techniques by measuring the particle size distribution and mass-based concentration of polystyrene mixtures containing both nano and microparticles, with the educational aim to underline applicability and limitations of each technique. FINDINGS Light scattering-based measurements do not have the resolution to distinguish multiple populations in polydisperse samples. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), nano-flowcytometry (nFCM) and asymmetric flow field flow fractionation hyphenated with multiangle light scattering (AF4-MALS) cannot measure particles in the micrometre range. Static light scattering (SLS) is not able to accurately detect particles below 200 nm, and similarly to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and flow cytometry (FCM), is not suitable for accurate mass-based concentration measurements. Alternatives for high-resolution sizing and concentration measurements in the size range between 60 nm and 5 µm are tunable resistive pulse sensing (TRPS) and centrifugal liquid sedimentation (CLS), that can bridge the gap between the nanometre and micrometre range.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Caputo
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - R Vogel
- School of Mathematics and Physics, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; IZON Science Ltd., Burnside, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand
| | - J Savage
- LBCAM, Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G Vella
- LBCAM, Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - A Law
- NanoFCM Co., Ltd, Medicity, Building D6, Thane Road, Nottingham NG90 6BH, UK
| | - G Della Camera
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - G Hannon
- LBCAM, Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - B Peacock
- NanoFCM Co., Ltd, Medicity, Building D6, Thane Road, Nottingham NG90 6BH, UK
| | - D Mehn
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - J Ponti
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - O Geiss
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - D Aubert
- NanoFCM Co., Ltd, Medicity, Building D6, Thane Road, Nottingham NG90 6BH, UK
| | - A Prina-Mello
- LBCAM, Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; AMBER Centre, CRANN Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - L Calzolai
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
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