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Ding MQ, Ding J, Yang SS, Ren XR, Shi SN, Zhang LY, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Effects of plastic aging on biodegradation of polystyrene by Tenebrio molitor larvae: Insights into gut microbiome and bacterial metabolism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176130. [PMID: 39260508 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Plastics aging reduces resistance to microbial degradation. Plastivore Tenebrio molitor rapidly biodegrades polystyrene (PS, size: < 80 μm), but the effects of aging on PS biodegradation by T. molitor remain uncharacterized. This study examined PS biodegradation over 24 days following three pre-treatments: freezing with UV exposure (PS1), UV exposure (PS2), and freezing (PS3), compared to pristine PS (PSv) microplastic. The pretreatments deteriorated PS polymers, resulting in slightly higher specific PS consumption (602.8, 586.1, 566.7, and 563.9 mg PS·100 larvae-1·d-1, respectively) and mass reduction rates (49.6 %, 49.5 %, 49.2 %, and 48.7 %, respectively) in PS1, PS2, and PS3 compared to PSv. Improved biodegradation correlated with reduced molecular weights and the formation of oxidized functional groups. Larvae fed more aged PS exhibited greater gut microbial diversity, with microbial community and metabolic pathways shaped by PS aging, as supported by co-occurrence network analysis. These findings indicated that the aging treatments enhanced PS biodegradation by only limited extent but impacted greater on gut microbiome and bacterial metabolic genes, indicating that the T. molitor host have highly predominant capability to digest PS plastics and alters gut microbiome to adapt the PS polymers fed to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Qi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Xin-Ran Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shao-Nan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Lu-Yan Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Chemistry, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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2
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Jendrossek D. Polyethylene and related hydrocarbon polymers ("plastics") are not biodegradable. N Biotechnol 2024; 83:231-238. [PMID: 39182829 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2024.08.503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Research on the biodegradation of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and related polymers has become popular and the number of publications on this topic is rapidly increasing. However, there is no convincing evidence that the frequently claimed biodegradability of these so-called "plastics" really exists. Rather, a diffuse definition of the term "biodegradability" has led to the publication of reports showing either marginal weight losses of hydrocarbon polymers by the action of isolated bacterial strains or mechanical disintegration and polymer surface modification in case of hydrocarbon polymer-consuming insect larvae. Most of the data can be alternatively explained by the utilization of polymer impurities/additives, by the utilization of low molecular weight oligomers, and/or by physical fragmentation and subsequent loss of small fragments. Evidence for a (partial) biotic and/or abiotic oxidation of the amorphous polymer fraction and of surface-exposed hydrocarbon side chains is not sufficient to claim that PE is biodegradable. To the best of my knowledge, no report has been so far published in which substantial biodegradation and mineralization of PE or related (long chain length) hydrocarbon polymers to carbon dioxide has been convincingly demonstrated by the determination of the fate of carbon atoms in isotope-labeled polymers. It is disappointing that publications with a critical view on biodegradation of hydrocarbon polymers are not cited in most of these reports. The possibility should be considered that the rapidly expanding research field of hydrocarbon polymer biodegradation is chasing rainbows.
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Jemec Kokalj A, Dolar A, Nagode A, Drobne D, Kuljanin A, Kalčíková G. Response of terrestrial crustacean Porcellio scaber and mealworm Tenebrio molitor to non-degradable and biodegradable fossil-based mulching film microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175379. [PMID: 39137843 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175379] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural mulching films are potential sources of microplastics (MPs) in soil. As an alternative to conventional non-degradable mulching films, a variety of different biodegradable mulching films are used. However, it is not yet known whether MPs from biodegradable mulching films pose a lower risk to terrestrial invertebrates compared to MPs from conventional mulching films. In this study, the effects of MPs produced from two conventional polyethylene (PE-1 and PE-2) and two biodegradable (starch-based poly(butylene adipate co-terephthalate); PBAT-BD-1, and PBAT-BD-2) fossil-based mulching films on terrestrial crustacean woodlice Porcellio scaber and mealworm Tenebrio molitor were compared. A key finding was that no clear differences in induced responses between biodegradable and conventional MPs were detected. No adverse effects on P. scaber after two weeks and on T. molitor after four weeks of exposure were observed up to 5 % (w/w dry soil) of either MP type. However, some sublethal physiological changes in metabolic rate and immune parameters were found in P. scaber after two weeks of exposure indicating a response of organisms to the presence of MP exposure in soil. In addition, it was demonstrated that both types of MPs might affect the soil water holding capacity and pH. In conclusion, we confirmed that biodegradable MPs can induce responses in organisms hence further studies testing the environmental hazard of biodegradable MPs are justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Jemec Kokalj
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Andraž Dolar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ana Nagode
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damjana Drobne
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleksandra Kuljanin
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gabriela Kalčíková
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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4
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Yoon S, Lee J, Jang T, Choi JH, Ko M, Kim HO, Ha SJ, Lim KS, Park JA. Assessing the abundance, sources, and potential ecological risk assessment of microplastics using their particle and mass units in Uiam Lake, South Korea. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124654. [PMID: 39098638 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124654] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) enter lakes through various pathways, including effluents from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), surface runoff, and improperly disposed of plastic waste. In this study, the extent of MPs pollution in Uiam Lake in fall of 2022 and spring of 2023 was assessed by determining both the number (n/m3) and mass concentrations (μg/m3) of MPs. Moreover, the correlation between water quality parameters and MP properties was analyzed, and an ecological risk assessment was conducted. MPs abundance was higher in spring than in fall, probably due to the lifting of coronavirus disease-19 restrictions, melting of ice, higher rainfall, and faster wind speed. Fragment was the dominant shape of the MPs collected, while polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyester/polyethylene terephthalate were the frequently detected polymer types of MPs in fall and spring, respectively. There was a moderate positive correlation between the number concentration of MPs and the total nitrogen, total phosphorus (T-P), and total organic carbon levels; in contrast, there was no significant relationship between the mass concentration of MPs and all water quality parameters. However, the abundance (μg/m3) of PVC and polymethyl methacrylate MPs were positively correlated with T-P and electrical conductivity. The pollution load index, polymer hazard index, and potential ecological risk index (PERI) were generally higher when the mass unit of MPs was used due to the presence of large-sized MPs composed of highly hazardous polymers (e.g., polyurethane, PVC, and alkyd). For instance, the PERI value of the WWTP effluent was at the very high level (>1200) in both seasons, regardless of the abundance unit of MPs. Therefore, WWTP effluents may have increased the ecological toxicity of MPs pollution in Uiam Lake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyeong Yoon
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooyoung Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Taesoon Jang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hyuk Choi
- Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingi Ko
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Ouk Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Jin Ha
- Department of Bioengineering, Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Suk Lim
- Department of Bioengineering, Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Ann Park
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Department of Integrated Energy and Infra System, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Jemec Kokalj A, Nagode A, Drobne D, Dolar A. Effects of agricultural microplastics in multigenerational tests with insects; mealworms Tenebrio molitor. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174490. [PMID: 38969109 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174490] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Mulching films, widely used in agriculture, are a large source of microplastics (MPs) to soil. However, there is little knowledge on the long-term effects of agricultural MPs on soil invertebrates. We investigated the effects of MPs from conventional non-biodegradable, fossil-based, low-density polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable fossil-based poly(butylene adipate-coterephthalate) (starch-PBAT blend) mulching films on two generations of the mealworm Tenebrio molitor. No effects of MPs (0.005 %-5 %, w/w dry food) on mealworm development and survival were observed until the end of the experiments (12 weeks for the first generation, nine weeks for the second generation), but effects on their moulting and growth were observed. These were most evident for PE MPs (5 %, w/w), where a decrease in larval growth and moulting was noted in the first generation. On the contrary, PBAT MPs (5 %, w/w) significantly induced the growth of mealworms in the second generation. In addition, there was a non-significant trend towards increased growth at all other PBAT MP exposure concentrations. Increased growth is most likely due to the biodegradation of starch PBAT MPs by mealworms. Overall, these data suggest that PE and PBAT MPs do not induce significant effects on mealworms at environmentally relevant concentrations, but rather only at very high exposure concentrations (5 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Jemec Kokalj
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Ana Nagode
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damjana Drobne
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andraž Dolar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Xu Y, Peng BY, Zhang X, Xu Q, Yang L, Chen J, Zhou X, Zhang Y. The aging of microplastics exacerbates the damage to photosynthetic performance and bioenergy production in microalgae (Chlorella pyrenoidosa). WATER RESEARCH 2024; 259:121841. [PMID: 38820734 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121841] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
The toxicity of microplastics (MPs) on freshwater plants has been widely studied, yet the influence of aged MPs remains largely unexplored. Herein, we investigated the influence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MPs, both before and after aging, at different environmentally relevant concentrations on Chlorella pyrenoidosa, a freshwater microalgae species widely recognized as a valuable biomass resource. During a 96-h period, both virgin and aged MPs hindered the growth of C. pyrenoidosa. The maximum growth inhibition rates were 32.40 % for virgin PVC at 250 mg/L and 44.72 % for aged PVC at 100 mg/L, respectively. Microalgae intracellular materials, i.e., protein and carbohydrate contents, consistently decreased after MP exposure, with more pronounced inhibition observed with aged PVC. Meanwhile, the MP aging significantly promoted the nitrogen uptake of C. pyrenoidosa, i.e., 1693.45 ± 42.29 mg/L (p < 0.01), contributing to the production of humic acid-like substances. Additionally, aged PVC induced lower chlorophyll a and Fv/Fm when compared to virgin PVC, suggesting a more serious inhibition of the photosynthesis process of microalgae. The toxicity of MPs to C. pyrenoidosa was strongly associated with intercellular oxidative stress levels. The results indicate that MP aging exacerbates the damage to photosynthetic performance and bioenergy production in microalgae, providing critical insights into the toxicity analysis of micro(nano)plastics on freshwater plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhou Xu
- National Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Eco-environmental Protection Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Science, Shanghai 201403, China
| | - Qianfeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Libin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Jiabin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xuefei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yalei Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Key Laboratory of Rural Toilet and Sewage Treatment Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai 200092, China.
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7
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Sucharitakul P, Wu WM, Zhang Y, Peng BY, Gao J, Wang L, Hou D. Exposure Pathways and Toxicity of Microplastics in Terrestrial Insects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11887-11900. [PMID: 38885123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The detrimental effects of plastics on aquatic organisms, including those of macroplastics, microplastics, and nanoplastics, have been well established. However, knowledge on the interaction between plastics and terrestrial insects is limited. To develop effective strategies for mitigating the impact of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems, it is necessary to understand the toxicity effects and influencing factors of plastic ingestion by insects. An overview of current knowledge regarding plastic ingestion by terrestrial insects is provided in this Review, and the factors influencing this interaction are identified. The pathways through which insects interact with plastics, which can lead to plastic accumulation and microplastic transfer to higher trophic levels, are also discussed using an overview and a conceptual model. The diverse impacts of plastic exposure on insects are discussed, and the challenges in existing studies, such as a limited focus on certain plastic types, are identified. Further research on standardized methods for sampling and analysis is crucial for reliable research, and long-term monitoring is essential to assess plastic trends and ecological impacts in terrestrial ecosystems. The mechanisms underlying these effects need to be uncovered, and their potential long-term consequences for insect populations and ecosystems require evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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8
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Bao S, Yi J, Xian B, Rao C, Xiang D, Tang W, Fang T. Global analysis of the adverse effects of micro- and nanoplastics on intestinal health and microbiota of fish. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134157. [PMID: 38569337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The wide occurrence of micro- and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) within aquatic ecosystems has raised increasing concerns regarding their potential effects on aquatic organisms. However, the effects of MPs/NPs on intestinal health and microbiota of fish remain controversial, and there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding how the impact of MPs/NPs is influenced by MPs/NPs characteristics and experimental designs. Here, we conducted a global analysis to synthesize the effects of MPs/NPs on 47 variables associated with fish intestinal health and microbiota from 118 studies. We found that MPs/NPs generally exerted obvious adverse effects on intestinal histological structure, permeability, digestive function, immune and oxidative-antioxidative systems. By contrast, MPs/NPs showed slight effects on intestinal microbial variables. Further, we observed that the responses of intestinal variables to MPs/NPs were significantly regulated by MPs/NPs characteristics and experimental designs. For instance, polyvinyl chloride plastics showed higher toxicity to fish gut than polyethylene and polystyrene did. Additionally, larval fish appeared to be more sensitive to MPs/NPs than juvenile fish. Collectively, this study highlights the potential impacts of MPs/NPs on intestinal health and microbiota of fish, and underscores the determinant role of MPs/NPs characteristics and experimental designs in MPs/NPs toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaopan Bao
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Jia Yi
- Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Bo Xian
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Chenyang Rao
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Dongfang Xiang
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Tao Fang
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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9
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Dolar A, Petrišič T, Drobne D, Jemec Kokalj A. Response of the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber to lipopolysaccharide challenge after microplastic and insecticide exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 925:171698. [PMID: 38499105 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171698] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The exposure of organisms to microplastics could compromise their ability to cope with other environmental stressors, such as infections. In this context, we investigated the effects of a 14-day exposure of the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber to tire particles in soil (1.5 % w w-1 dry weight) on the organisms' response to a secondary exposure, i.e., injection of the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide. In addition, the insecticide chlorpyrifos (2 mg kg-1 dry weight) was tested as a positive control. The survival and immune response of P. scaber was assessed at the end of the 7- and 14-day primary exposure and two days after the secondary exposure, by analyzing selected haemolymph immune parameters (total haemocyte count, differential haemocyte count, and haemocyte viability). No change in survival was observed after primary exposure of P. scaber to tire particles or chlorpyrifos. However, primary exposure to chlorpyrifos triggered a strong activation of the immune response, which was not the case following exposure to the tire particles. Further injection of lipopolysaccharide into the body did not affect the survival of animals exposed to tire particles or chlorpyrifos, while a strong immunomodulatory change was observed, particularly with chlorpyrifos, and to some extent, tire particles. Based on these results, we conclude that exposure of P. scaber to tire particles or chlorpyrifos has no significant effect on the susceptibility of the organism to lipopolysaccharide in terms of their mortality, but primary exposure to an insecticide significantly modulates the immune response of the organisms to a second stressor. We discuss the "stress on stress" approach for testing low-toxic substances, such as microplastics, where an environmentally realistic exposure is followed by a secondary exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andraž Dolar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Tina Petrišič
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damjana Drobne
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anita Jemec Kokalj
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Yao J, Li J, Qi J, Wan M, Tang L, Han H, Tian K, Liu S. Distribution patterns and environmental risk assessments of microplastics in the lake waters and sediments from eight typical wetland parks in Changsha city, China. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1365906. [PMID: 38784569 PMCID: PMC11112001 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1365906] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The quality of water in urban parks is closely related to people's daily lives, but the pollution caused by microplastics in park water and sediments has not been comprehensively studied. Therefore, eight typical parks in the urban area of Changsha, China, were selected, and Raman spectroscopy was used to explore the spatial distributions and compositions of the microplastics in the water and sediments, analyze their influencing factors, and evaluate their environmental risks. The results showed that the abundances of surface water microplastics in all parks ranged from 150 to 525 n L-1, and the abundances of sediment microplastics ranged from 120 to 585 n kg-1. The microplastics in the surface water included polyethylene terephthalate (PET), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), and fluororubber (FLU), while those in the sediments included polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wp-acrylate copolymer (ACR), and CPE. Regression analyses revealed significant positive correlations between human activities and the abundances of microplastics in the parks. Among them, the correlations of population, industrial discharge and domestic wastewater discharge with the abundance of microplastics in park water were the strongest. However, the correlations of car flow and tourists with the abundance of microplastics in park water were the weakest. Based on the potential ecological risk indices (PERI) classification assessment method, the levels of microplastics in the waters and sediments of the eight parks were all within the II-level risk zone (53-8,549), among which the risk indices for Meixi Lake and Yudai Lake were within the IV risk zone (1,365-8,549), which may have been caused by the high population density near the park. This study provides new insights into the characteristics of microplastics in urban park water and sediment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Yao
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang Li
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jialing Qi
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mengrui Wan
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liling Tang
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Han
- Henan Field Observation and Research Station of Headwork Wetland Ecosystem of the Central Route of South-to-North Water Diversion Project, School of Life Sciences and Agricultural Engineering, Nanyang Normal University, Nanyang, Henan, China
| | - Kai Tian
- Henan Field Observation and Research Station of Headwork Wetland Ecosystem of the Central Route of South-to-North Water Diversion Project, School of Life Sciences and Agricultural Engineering, Nanyang Normal University, Nanyang, Henan, China
| | - Shaobo Liu
- The Department of Environmental Design, School of Architecture and Art, Central South University, Changsha, China
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11
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Ding MQ, Ding J, Zhang ZR, Li MX, Cui CH, Pang JW, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM, Yang SS. Biodegradation of various grades of polyethylene microplastics by Tenebrio molitor and Tenebrio obscurus larvae: Effects on their physiology. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 358:120832. [PMID: 38599089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120832] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is the most productive plastic product and includes three major polymers including high-density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) variation in the PE depends on the branching of the polymer chain and its crystallinity. Tenebrio obscurus and Tenebrio molitor larvae biodegrade PE. We subsequently tested larval physiology, gut microbiome, oxidative stress, and PE degradation capability and degradation products under high-purity HDPE, LLDPE, and LDPE powders (<300 μm) diets for 21 days at 65 ± 5% humidity and 25 ± 0.5 °C. Our results demonstrated the specific PE consumption rates by T. molitor was 8.04-8.73 mg PE ∙ 100 larvae-1⋅day-1 and by T. obscurus was 7.68-9.31 for LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE, respectively. The larvae digested nearly 40% of the ingested three PE and showed similar survival rates and weight changes but their fat content decreased by 30-50% over 21-day period. All the PE-fed groups exhibited adverse effects, such as increased benzoquinone concentrations, intestinal tissue damage and elevated oxidative stress indicators, compared with bran-fed control. In the current study, the digestive tract or gut microbiome exhibited a high level of adaptability to PE exposure, altering the width of the gut microbial ecological niche and community diversity, revealing notable correlations between Tenebrio species and the physical and chemical properties (PCPs) of PE-MPs, with the gut microbiome and molecular weight change due to biodegradation. An ecotoxicological simulation by T.E.S.T. confirmed that PE degradation products were little ecotoxic to Daphnia magna and Rattus norvegicus providing important novel insights for future investigations into the environmentally-friendly approach of insect-mediated biodegradation of persistent plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Qi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China.
| | - Zhi-Rong Zhang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Mei-Xi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Chen-Hao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, CECEP Digital Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing, 100089, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China.
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12
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Xu L, Li Z, Wang L, Xu Z, Zhang S, Zhang Q. Progress in polystyrene biodegradation by insect gut microbiota. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:143. [PMID: 38530548 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03932-0] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is frequently used in the plastics industry. However, its structural stability and difficulty to break down lead to an abundance of plastic waste in the environment, resulting in micro-nano plastics (MNPs). As MNPs are severe hazards to both human and environmental health, it is crucial to develop innovative treatment technologies to degrade plastic waste. The biodegradation of plastics by insect gut microorganisms has gained attention as it is environmentally friendly, efficient, and safe. However, our knowledge of the biodegradation of PS is still limited. This review summarizes recent research advances on PS biodegradation by gut microorganisms/enzymes from insect larvae of different species, and schematic pathways of the degradation process are discussed in depth. Additionally, the prospect of using modern biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and systems biology, to identify novel PS-degrading microbes/functional genes/enzymes and to realize new strategies for PS biodegradation is highlighted. Challenges and limitations faced by the application of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) and multiomics technologies in the field of plastic pollution bioremediation are also discussed. This review encourages the further exploration of the biodegradation of PS by insect gut microbes/enzymes, offering a cutting-edge perspective to identify PS biodegradation pathways and create effective biodegradation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luhui Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zelin Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zihang Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
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13
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Queiroz LG, Prado CCA, Melo EC, Moraes BR, de Oliveira PFM, Ando RA, Paiva TCB, Pompêo M, Rani-Borges B. Biofragmentation of Polystyrene Microplastics: A Silent Process Performed by Chironomus sancticaroli Larvae. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4510-4521. [PMID: 38426442 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is one of the main synthetic polymers produced around the world, and it is present in the composition of a wide variety of single-use objects. When released into the environment, these materials are degraded by environmental factors, resulting in microplastics. We investigated the ability of Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) to promote the fragmentation of PS microspheres (24.5 ± 2.9 μm) and the toxic effects associated with exposure to this polymer. C. sancticaroli larvae were exposed to 3 different concentrations of PS (67.5, 135, and 270 particles g-1 of dry sediment) for 144 h. Significant lethality was observed only at the highest concentration. A significant reduction in PS particle size as well as evidence of deterioration on the surface of the spheres, such as grooves and cracks, was observed. In addition, changes in oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, MDA, and GST) were also observed. This is the first study to report the ability of Chironomus sp. to promote the biofragmentation of microplastics. The information obtained demonstrates that the macroinvertebrate community can play a key role in the degradation of plastic particles present in the sediment of freshwater environments and can also be threatened by such particle pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas G Queiroz
- Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão 277, São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caio C A Prado
- School of Engineering of Lorena, Department of Biotechnology, University of São Paulo, Estrada do Campinho s/n, Lorena, 12602-810 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo C Melo
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Beatriz R Moraes
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo F M de Oliveira
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rômulo A Ando
- Institute of Chemistry, Department of Fundamental Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Teresa C B Paiva
- School of Engineering of Lorena, Department of Basic and Environmental Sciences, University of São Paulo, Estrada do Campinho s/n, Lorena, 12602-810 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Pompêo
- Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão 277, São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Rani-Borges
- Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University, Av Três de Março 511, Sorocaba, 18087-180 São Paulo, Brazil
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14
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Ritchie MW, Provencher JF, Allison JE, Muzzatti MJ, MacMillan HA. The digestive system of a cricket pulverizes polyethylene microplastics down to the nanoplastic scale. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123168. [PMID: 38104765 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs; <5 mm) are a growing concern and a poorly understood threat to biota. We used a generalist insect (a cricket; Gryllodes sigillatus) to examine whether individuals would ingest and physically degrade MPs in their food. We fed crickets a range of concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, and 10% w/w) of fluorescent polyethylene MPs mixed into a standard diet and dissected the gut regions to isolate the MPs within. Comparing plastic content and fragment size within gut regions, we sought to identify whether and where crickets can fragment ingested MP particles. Given the digestive tract morphology of this species, we expected that the crickets would both ingest and egest the MPs. We also predicted that the MPs would be fragmented into smaller pieces during this digestive process. We found that G. sigillatus egested much smaller pieces than they ingested, and this fragmentation occurs early in the digestive process of this insect. We found this for both sexes as well as across the range of concentrations of MPs. The degree of plastic breakdown relative to plastic feeding time suggests that the ability to fragment MPs is intrinsic and not altered by how much time crickets have spent eating the plastics. The amount of plastics found in each region of the gut in relation to feeding time also suggests that this size and shape of PE microplastic does not cause any physical blockage in the gut. This lack of evidence for blockage is likely due to plastic breakdown. We found a ∼1000-fold reduction in plastic size occurs during passage through the digestive system, yielding particles very near nanoplastics (NPs; <1 μm), and likely smaller, that are then excreted back into the environment. These findings suggest that generalist insects can act as agents of plastic transformation in their environment if/when encountering MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall W Ritchie
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada; National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jane E Allison
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Matthew J Muzzatti
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Heath A MacMillan
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
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15
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Zhao Y, Jia H, Deng H, Ge C, Xing W, Yu H, Li J. Integrated microbiota and multi-omics analysis reveal the differential responses of earthworm to conventional and biodegradable microplastics in soil under biogas slurry irrigation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:168191. [PMID: 37907108 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
As one of the promising alternatives of conventional plastic mulching film (C-PMF), biodegradable plastic mulching films (B-PMF) were employed in agronomy production to alleviate the environmental burden of C-PMF. However, information regarding the potential toxicity effects of biodegradable microplastics (MPs) in soil still in scarcity, and the available findings were found to be controversial. Additionally, little is known about the molecular toxicity effects of conventional and biodegradable MPs on terrestrial organisms. Thus, 5 % (w/w) biodegradable (polylactic acid, PLA) and conventional (polyvinylchloride, PVC; low-density polyvinylchloride, LDPE) MPs were employed to assess the toxicity effects on Eisenia fetida in agricultural soil with biogas slurry irrigation. In the present study, transcriptomic, metabolomic profiles and individual indexes were selected to reveal the toxicity mechanisms from molecular level to the individual response. Furthermore, dysbiosis of bacterial community in gut was also investigated for obtaining comprehensive knowledge on the MPs toxicity. At the end of the exposure, the number of survival earthworms after MPs exposure was significantly reduced. Compared with the initial body weight, PLA and LDPE increased the biomass of earthworms after MPs exposure, while no significant influence on the biomass was observed in PVC treatment. Microbacterium, Klebsiella and Chryseobacterium were significantly enriched in earthworm gut after PLA, PVC and LDPE exposure, respectively (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis revealed that PLA exposure induced neurotransmission disorder and high energetic expenditure in earthworms. However, PVC and LDPE inhibited the nutrient absorption efficiency and activated the innate immunity responses of earthworms. The PLS-SEM results showed that the effects of MPs were dominated by the polymer types, and hence, significantly and directly influence the gut bacterial community of earthworms. This study provides a better understanding of the similarities and discrepancies in toxicity effects of biodegradable and conventional MPs from the perspectives of individual, gut bacterial community, transcriptome and metabolome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Huiting Jia
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Hui Deng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Chengjun Ge
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Wenzhe Xing
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Huamei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Jiatong Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Renmin Road, Haikou 570228, China
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16
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Deng Y, Yang P, Tan H, Shen R, Chen D. Polylactic Acid Microplastics Do Not Exhibit Lower Biological Toxicity in Growing Mice Compared to Polyvinyl Chloride Microplastics. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:19772-19782. [PMID: 38039335 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c06576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Biomicroplastics (BMPs) will be produced during bioplastic degradation (i.e., polylactic acid), although bioplastics have been widely used for food packaging. Like conventional microplastics (MPs), BMPs would be mistakenly ingested into the body through diet or drinking water, but their health risks in vivo are poorly understood. Here, we deeply compared the toxicity difference between irregularly shaped polylactic acid (PLA-MPs, 16-350 μm) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC-MPs, 40-300 μm) MPs in growing mice. After six weeks of exposure, PLA-MP exposure resulted in more severe inhibition of the mice's weight gain than PVC-MPs did. Both PLA- and PVC-MPs significantly elevated the levels of oxidative stress. Moreover, significant changes including altered transcriptional profiles and significantly differentially expressed genes in liver and colon transcription levels were observed in the PVC- and PLA-MP groups. Compared with PVC-MPs, PLA-MPs have a stronger effect on lipid metabolism and digestive systems. PLA-MPs also caused gut microbiota dysbiosis, significantly interfering with the relative abundance of microbiota and altering microbial diversity. These findings indicated the toxicities of PLA-MPs in growing mice were not significantly reduced compared to PVC-MPs, which would also provide new insights for re-examining bioplastic safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Deng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Pan Yang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hongli Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Ruqin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Da Chen
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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17
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Peng BY, Xiao S, Sun Y, Liu Y, Chen J, Zhou X, Wu WM, Zhang Y. Unveiling Fragmentation of Plastic Particles during Biodegradation of Polystyrene and Polyethylene Foams in Mealworms: Highly Sensitive Detection and Digestive Modeling Prediction. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:15099-15111. [PMID: 37751481 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
It remains unknown whether plastic-biodegrading macroinvertebrates generate microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) during the biodegradation of plastics. In this study, we utilized highly sensitive particle analyzers and pyrolyzer-gas chromatography mass spectrometry (Py-GCMS) to investigate the possibility of generating MPs and NPs in frass during the biodegradation of polystyrene (PS) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) foams by mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae). We also developed a digestive biofragmentation model to predict and unveil the fragmentation process of ingested plastics. The mealworms removed 77.3% of ingested PS and 71.1% of ingested PE over a 6-week test period. Biodegradation of both polymers was verified by the increase in the δ13C signature of residual plastics, changes in molecular weights, and the formation of new oxidative functional groups. MPs accumulated in the frass due to biofragmentation, with residual PS and PE exhibiting the maximum percentage by number at 2.75 and 7.27 μm, respectively. Nevertheless, NPs were not detected using a laser light scattering sizer with a detection limit of 10 nm and Py-GCMS analysis. The digestive biofragmentation model predicted that the ingested PS and PE were progressively size-reduced and rapidly biodegraded, indicating the shorter half-life the smaller plastic particles have. This study allayed concerns regarding the accumulation of NPs by plastic-degrading mealworms and provided critical insights into the factors controlling MP and NP generation during macroinvertebrate-mediated plastic biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Shaoze Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yurong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Manufacturing in Energy Chemical Process, Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jiabin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xuefei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
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18
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Zhang S, Li Y, Jiang L, Han W, Zhao Y, Jiang X, Li J, Shi W, Zhang X. Organic fertilizer facilitates the soil microplastic surface degradation and enriches the diversity of bacterial biofilm. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132139. [PMID: 37517233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The land-use of organic fertilizers is considered as an important sustainable method for resource utilization, which may have an impact on the microplastic behaviors in the soil. Here, a 240-d dark culture experiment was conducted to reveal the degradation and biofilm characteristics of degradable and refractory granule microplastics in soil and soil-fertilizer systems. The results indicated that microplastics generally exhibited a weak weight loss as well as a specific etiolation on the surface after the culture, especially polyvinyl-chloride and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). Increase in carbon-oxygen functional groups and the changes of oxygen/carbon ratios were noticed, which implied that oxidation and degradation occurred on the surface of microplastics during the cultural process. The changes were more intense on the degradable PHA, and the fertilized-soil treatment than those of the refractory microplastics and the pure soil. Moreover, the addition of organic fertilizers enriched the community diversity of bacterial biofilm on multiple microplastic surfaces. In this regard, the animal fertilizers provided a stronger effect than the plant fertilizers. Overall, the soil, fertilizer and microplastic types affected the community structure and diversity of bacterial biofilm. The outcomes of this study would provide a theoretical basis for the utilization of organic matters for agricultural soil applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yanxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Linshu Jiang
- Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Wei Han
- Solid Waste and Chemicals Management Center, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xiaoman Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Wenzhuo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xuelian Zhang
- Beijing Soil and Fertilizer Extension Service Station, Beijing 100029, China
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19
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Ritchie MW, Cheslock A, Bourdages MPT, Hamilton BM, Provencher JF, Allison JE, MacMillan HA. Quantifying microplastic ingestion, degradation and excretion in insects using fluorescent plastics. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad052. [PMID: 37588620 PMCID: PMC10425969 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a growing threat to our natural environment. Plastic waste/pollution results from high emissions of both macro (>5 mm) and microplastics (MPs; <5 mm) as well as environmental fractioning of macroplastics into MPs. MPs have been shown to have a range of negative impacts on biota. Harmonized methods to accurately measure and count MPs from animal samples are limited, but what methods exist are not ideal for a controlled laboratory environment where plastic ingestion, degradation and elimination can be quantified and related to molecular, physiological and organismal traits. Here, we propose a complete method for isolating and quantifying fluorescent MPs by combining several previously reported approaches into one comprehensive workflow. We combine tissue dissection, organic material digestion, sample filtering and automated imaging techniques to show how fluorescently labelled MPs provided to insects (e.g. in their diet) in a laboratory setting can be isolated, identified and quantified. As a proof of concept, we fed crickets (Gryllodes sigillatus) a diet of 2.5% (w/w) fluorescently labelled plastics and isolated and quantified plastic particles within the gut and frass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall W Ritchie
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Alexandra Cheslock
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Madelaine P T Bourdages
- Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Bonnie M Hamilton
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3B2, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Jane E Allison
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Heath A MacMillan
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada
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20
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He L, Yang SS, Ding J, He ZL, Pang JW, Xing DF, Zhao L, Zheng HS, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Responses of gut microbiomes to commercial polyester polymer biodegradation in Tenebrio molitor Larvae. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 457:131759. [PMID: 37276692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a mass-produced fossil-based plastic polymer that contributes to catastrophic levels of plastic pollution. Here we demonstrated that Tenebrio molitor (mealworms) was capable of rapidly biodegrading two commercial PET resins (microplastics) with respective weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 39.33 and 29.43 kDa and crystallinity of 22.8 ± 3.06% and 18 ± 2.25%, resulting in an average mass reduction of 71.03% and 73.28% after passage of their digestive tract, and respective decrease by 9.22% and 11.36% in Mw of residual PET polymer in egested frass. Sequencing of 16 S rRNA gene amplicons of gut microbial communities showed that dominant bacterial genera were enriched and associated with PET degradation. Also, PICRUSt prediction exhibited that oxidases (monooxygenases and dioxygenases), hydrolases (cutinase, carboxylesterase and chitinase), and PET metabolic enzymes, and chemotaxis related functions were up-regulated in the PET-fed larvae. Additionally, metabolite analyses revealed that PET uptake caused alterations of stress response and plastic degradation related pathways, and lipid metabolism pathways in the T. molitor larvae could be reprogrammed when the larvae fed on PET. This study provides new insights into gut microbial community adaptation to PET diet under nutritional stress (especially nitrogen deficiency) and its contribution to PET degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhi-Li He
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519080, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, CECEP Talroad Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100096, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - He-Shan Zheng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar 161006, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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