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Garai S, Bhattacharjee C, Sarkar S, Moulick D, Dey S, Jana S, Dhar A, Roy A, Mondal K, Mondal M, Mukherjee S, Ghosh S, Singh P, Ramteke P, Manna D, Hazra S, Malakar P, Banerjee H, Brahmachari K, Hossain A. Microplastics in the soil-water-food nexus: Inclusive insight into global research findings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:173891. [PMID: 38885699 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Nuisance imposed by biotic and abiotic stressors on diverse agroecosystems remains an area of focus for the scientific fraternity. However, emerging contaminants such as microplastics (MP) have imposed additional dimension (alone or in combinations with other stressors) in agroecosystems and keep escalating the challenges to achieve sustainability. MP are recognized as persistent anthropogenic contaminants, fetch global attention due to their unique chemical features that keeps themselves unresponsive to the decaying process. This review has been theorized to assess the current research trends (along with possible gap areas), widespread use of MP, enhancement of the harshness of heavy metals (HMs), complex interactions with physico-chemical constituents of arable soil, accumulation in the edible parts of field crops, dairy products, and other sources to penetrate the food web. So far, the available review articles are oriented to a certain aspect of MP and lack a totality when considered from in soil-water-food perspective. In short, a comprehensive perspective of the adverse effects of MP on human health has been assessed. Moreover, an agro-techno-socio-health prospective-oriented critical assessment of policies and remedial measures linked with MP has provided an extra edge over other similar articles in influential future courses of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Garai
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Chandrima Bhattacharjee
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Sukamal Sarkar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
| | - Debojyoti Moulick
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal -741235, India
| | - Saikat Dey
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Soujanya Jana
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anannya Dhar
- Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Anirban Roy
- Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Krishnendu Mondal
- Dhaanyaganga Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Sargachhi, West Bengal, India
| | - Mousumi Mondal
- School of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddhartha Mukherjee
- Division of Agriculture, Faculty Centre for Agriculture, Rural and Tribal Development, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Samrat Ghosh
- Emergent Ventures India, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Puja Singh
- Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College, Birsa Agricultural University, Khuntpani, Chaibasa, Jharkhand, India
| | - Pratik Ramteke
- Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, MS 444104, India
| | - Dipak Manna
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreyasee Hazra
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Hirak Banerjee
- Regional Research Station (CSZ), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kakdwip, West Bengal, India
| | - Koushik Brahmachari
- Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Akbar Hossain
- Division of Soil Science, Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute, Dinajpur 5200, Bangladesh
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Hurley R, Binda G, Briassoulis D, Carroccio SC, Cerruti P, Convertino F, Dvořáková D, Kernchen S, Laforsch C, Löder MGL, Pulkrabova J, Schettini E, Spanu D, Tsagkaris AS, Vox G, Nizzetto L. Production and characterisation of environmentally relevant microplastic test materials derived from agricultural plastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174325. [PMID: 38942306 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Soil environments across the globe, particularly in agricultural settings, have now been shown to be contaminated with microplastics. Agricultural plastics - such as mulching films - are used in close or direct contact with soils and there is growing evidence demonstrating that they represent a potential source of microplastics. There is a demand to undertake fate and effects studies to understand the behaviour and potential long-term ecological risks of this contamination. Yet, there is a lack of test materials available for this purpose. This study describes the manufacture and characterisation of five large (1-40 kg) batches of microplastic test materials derived from agricultural mulching films. Batches were produced from either polyethylene-based conventional mulching films or starch-polybutadiene adipate terephthalate blend mulching films that are certified biodegradable in soil. Challenges encountered and overcome during the micronisation process provide valuable insights into the future of microplastic test material generation from these material types. This includes difficulties in micronising virgin polyethylene film materials. All five batches were subjected to a thorough physical and chemical characterisation - both of the original virgin films and the subsequent microplastic particles generated - including a screening for the presence of chemical additives. This is a critical step to provide essential information for interpreting particle fate or effects in scientific testing. Trade-offs between obtaining preferred particle typologies and time and cost constraints are elucidated. Several recommendations emerging from the experiences gained in this study are put forward to advance the research field towards greater harmonisation and utilisation of environmentally relevant test materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Hurley
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Gilberto Binda
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway; Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Demetres Briassoulis
- Natural Resources & Agricultural Engineering Department, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Pierfrancesco Cerruti
- National Research Council Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biopolymers, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Fabiana Convertino
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Darina Dvořáková
- Department of Food Analysis and Nutrition, Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | | | - Jana Pulkrabova
- Department of Food Analysis and Nutrition, Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Evelia Schettini
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Davide Spanu
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Aristeidis S Tsagkaris
- Department of Food Analysis and Nutrition, Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Giuliano Vox
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Luca Nizzetto
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway; Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Li Y, Chen Y, Li P, Huang H, Xue K, Cai S, Liao X, Jin S, Zheng D. Microplastics in soil affect the growth and physiological characteristics of Chinese fir and Phoebe bournei seedlings. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 358:124503. [PMID: 38977122 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124503] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Pot experiments were conducted using Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.) and Phoebe bournei (Hemsl.) Yang) to investigate whether soil microplastics adversely affect the nurturing and renewal of plantations. Microplastics composed of polyethylene and polypropylene with a size of 48 μm were used. The treatments included a control group (without microplastics) and groups treated with microplastic concentrations of 1% and 2% (w/w). The effects of microplastics on the growth, photosynthetic pigments in leaves, antioxidant systems, and osmotic regulation substances of the seedlings were analysed by measuring the seedling height, ground-line diameter growth, chlorophyll (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll) contents, antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase) activities, and malondialdehyde, soluble sugar, and soluble protein levels. The results indicated that treatment with 1% polyethylene microplastics increased the chlorophyll a, total chlorophyll, and soluble protein contents in the leaves of both types of seedlings while inhibiting superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities in P. bournei seedlings. Treatment with 2% polyethylene or polypropylene microplastics suppressed the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll contents; superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities; and soluble sugar and soluble protein levels in the leaves of both types of seedlings, resulting in reduced growth in terms of height and ground-line diameter. The physiological effects of polyethylene microplastics were more evident than those of polypropylene at the same concentration. The results demonstrated that microplastics can affect photosynthesis, the antioxidant system, and osmotic regulation in Chinese fir and P. bournei seedlings, thereby inhibiting their normal growth and development. Exposure to 1% (w/w) microplastics triggered stress responses in seedlings, whereas 2% (w/w) microplastics impeded seedling growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuru Li
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Yifei Chen
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Peiyao Li
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Haifeng Huang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Kexin Xue
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Siying Cai
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Xiaoli Liao
- Department of Geography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
| | - Shaofei Jin
- Department of Geography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
| | - Dexiang Zheng
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
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4
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Zhang L, Zhang G, Shi Z, He M, Ma D, Liu J. Effects of polypropylene micro(nano)plastics on soil bacterial and fungal community assembly in saline-alkaline wetlands. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:173890. [PMID: 38885717 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a major environmental threat, especially to terrestrial ecosystems. To better understand the effects of microplastics on soil microbiota, the influence of micro- to nano-scale polypropylene plastics was investigated on microbial community diversity, functionality, co-occurrence, assembly, and their interaction with soil-plant using high-throughput sequencing approaches and multivariate analyses. The results showed that polypropylene micro/nano-plastics mainly reduced bacterial diversity, not fungal, and that plastic size had a stronger effect than concentration on the assembly of microbial communities. Nano-plastics decreased the complexity and connectivity of both bacterial and fungal networks compared to micro-plastics. Moreover, bacteria were more sensitive and deterministic to polypropylene micro/nano-plastic stress than fungi, as shown by their different growth rates, guanine-cytosine content, and cell structure. Interestingly, the dominant ecological process for bacteria shifted from stochastic drift to deterministic selection with polypropylene micro/nano-plastic exposure. Furthermore, nano-plastics directly or indirectly disrupted the interactions within intra-microbes and between soil-bacteria-plant by altering soil nutrients and stoichiometry (C:N:P) or plant diversity. Collectively, the results indicate that polypropylene nano-plastics pose more ecological risks to soil microbes and their plant-soil interactions. This study sheds light on the potential ecological consequences of polypropylene micro/nano-plastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Guorui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Ziyue Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Mengxuan He
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China..
| | - Dan Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, Hebei, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China.
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5
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Liu Z, Wu Z, Zhang Y, Wen J, Su Z, Wei H, Zhang J. Impacts of conventional and biodegradable microplastics in maize-soil ecosystems: Above and below ground. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135129. [PMID: 39053066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The increasing accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in agroecosystems has raised significant environmental and public health concerns, facilitating the application of biodegradable plastics. However, the comparative effects of conventional and biodegradable MPs in agroecosystem are still far from fully understood. Here we developed microcosm experiments to reveal the ecological effects of conventional (polyethylene [PE] and polypropylene [PP]) and biodegradable (polyadipate/butylene terephthalate [PBAT] and polycaprolactone [PCL]) MPs (0, 1%, 5%; w/w) in the maize-soil ecosystem. We found that PCL MPs reduced plant production by 73.6-75.2%, while PE, PP and PBAT MPs elicited almost negligible change. The addition of PCL MPs decreased specific enzyme activities critical for soil nutrients cycling by 71.5-95.3%. Biodegradable MPs tended to reduce bacterial α-diversity. The 1% treatments of PE and PBAT, and PCL enhanced bacterial networks complexity, whereas 5% of PE and PBAT, and PP had adverse effect. Moreover, biodegradable MPs appeared to reduce the α-diversity and networks complexity of fungal community. Overall, PCL reduced the ecosystem multifunctionality, mainly by inhibiting the microbial metabolic activity. This study offers evidence that biodegradable MPs can impair agroecosystem multifunctionality, and highlights the potential risks to replace the conventional plastics by biodegradable ones in agricultural practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Liu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhenzhen Wu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yirui Zhang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jiahao Wen
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhijun Su
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hui Wei
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Jiaen Zhang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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Yin J, Zhu T, Li X, Yin X, Xu J, Xu G. Polystyrene nanoplastics induce cell type-dependent secondary wall reinforcement in rice (Oryza sativa) roots and reduce root hydraulic conductivity. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135309. [PMID: 39053057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135309] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) have been demonstrated the ability to penetrate plant roots and cause stress. However, the extent of NPs penetration into various root tissues and the corresponding plant defense mechanisms remain unclear. This study examined the penetration and accumulation patterns of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) in different cell types within rice roots, and explored how the roots quickly modify their cell wall structure in response. The findings showed that fully developed sclerenchyma cells in rice roots effectively prevented the invasion of PS-NPs. Meanwhile, PS-NPs triggered the accumulation of lignin and suberin in specific cells such as the exodermis, sclerenchyma, and xylem vessels. PS-NPs at a concentration of 50 mg L-1 increased cell wall thickness by 18.6 %, 21.1 %, and 22.4 % in epidermis, exodermis, and sclerenchyma cells, respectively, and decreased root hydraulic conductivity by 14.8 %. qPCR analysis revealed that PS-NPs influenced the cell wall synthesis pathway, promoting the deposition of lignin and suberin monomers on the secondary wall through the up-regulation of genes such as OsLAC and OsABCG. These results demonstrate that PS-NPs can induce cell type-specific strengthening of secondary walls and barrier formation in rice roots, suggesting the potential role of plant secondary wall development in mitigating NPs contamination risks in crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Yin
- Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ji'nan 250100, PR China
| | - Tongshan Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji'nan 250100, PR China
| | - Xiaozun Li
- Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ji'nan 250100, PR China
| | - Xiao Yin
- Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ji'nan 250100, PR China
| | - Jiandi Xu
- Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ji'nan 250100, PR China
| | - Guoxin Xu
- Institute of Wetland Agriculture and Ecology, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ji'nan 250100, PR China.
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7
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An Q, Wen C, Yan C. Meta-analysis reveals the combined effects of microplastics and heavy metal on plants. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135028. [PMID: 38925057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The combined pollution of microplastics and heavy metals is becoming increasingly serious, and its effects on toxicology and heavy metal accumulation of plants are closely related to crop yield and population health. Here, we collected 57 studies to investigate the effect of microplastics on heavy metal accumulation in plants and their combined toxicity. An assessment was conducted to discover the primary pollutant responsible for the toxicity of combined pollution on plants. The study examined the influence of microplastic characteristics, heavy metal characteristics, and experimental methods on this pollutant. The results showed that combined toxicity of plants was more similar to heavy metals, whereas microplastics interacted with heavy metals mainly by inducing oxidative stress damage. Culture environment, heavy metal type, experimental duration, microplastic concentration and microplastic size were the main factors affecting heavy metal accumulation in plants. There was a negative correlation between experimental duration, microplastic concentration and microplastic size with heavy metal accumulation in plants. The interactions among influencing factors were found, and microplastic biodegradation was the core factor of the strong interaction. These results provided comprehensive insights and guiding strategies for environmental and public health risks caused by the combined pollution of microplastics and heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuying An
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ce Wen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Changzhou Yan
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
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8
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Wróbel M, Deja-Sikora E, Hrynkiewicz K, Kowalkowski T, Szymańska S. Microbial Allies in Plastic Degradation: Specific bacterial genera as universal plastic-degraders in various environments. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142933. [PMID: 39067822 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142933] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Microbiological degradation of polymers offers a promising approach for mitigating environmental plastic pollution. This study (i) elucidated the diversity and structure of bacterial microbiomes from distinct environments (landfill soil, sewage sludge, and river water) characterized by specific physicochemical parameters, and (ii) utilized environment-derived microbial cultures enriched with microplastics (MPs) to investigate the degradation of polymers and identify culturable bacterial strains contributing to the plastisphere. We found that alpha diversity was notably higher in river water (∼20%) compared to landfill soil and sewage sludge. Dominant phyla included Pseudomonadota in sewage sludge (39.1%) and water (23.7%), while Actinomycetota prevailed in soil (38.5%). A multistage experiment, involving successive subcultures of environmental microbiomes exposed to polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate (PC), and polylactic acid (PLA), facilitated the assessment of MPs degradation processes. Analysis of carbonyl indices CIs and FTIR spectra revealed substantial structural changes in the treatment PVC-landfill soil, as well as in PLA- and PC-sludge enriched cultures. Further, using enriched cultures as a source of microorganisms, the study obtained 17 strains of plastic degraders from landfill soil, 14 from sewage sludge, and 6 from river water. Remarkably, similar bacterial genera were isolated across environmental microbiomes regardless of the MPs substrate used in enriched cultures. Among the 37 identified strains, Pseudomonadota predominated (64.86%) and were accompanied by Bacteroidota (16.22%), Actinomycetota (13.51%), and Bacillota (5.41%). This study highlights the complex relationship between microbiome diversity and the biodegradation efficiency of plastics, showing the potential for using microbial communities in the plastic pollution management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Wróbel
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100, Toruń, Poland; Department of Environmental Chemistry and Bioanalysis, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 7, 87-100, Toruń, Poland
| | - Edyta Deja-Sikora
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100, Toruń, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Hrynkiewicz
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100, Toruń, Poland
| | - Tomasz Kowalkowski
- Department of Environmental Chemistry and Bioanalysis, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 7, 87-100, Toruń, Poland
| | - Sonia Szymańska
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100, Toruń, Poland.
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9
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Subramanian D, Ponnusamy Manogaran G, Dharmadurai D. A systematic review on the impact of micro-nanoplastics on human health: Potential modulation of epigenetic mechanisms and identification of biomarkers. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142986. [PMID: 39094707 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic-mediated modifications, induced by adverse environmental conditions, significantly alter an organism's physiological mechanisms. Even after elimination of the stimulus, these epigenetic modifications can be inherited through mitosis, thereby triggering transgenerational epigenetics. Plastics, with their versatile properties, are indispensable in various aspects of daily life. However, due to mismanagement, plastics have become so ubiquitous in the environment that no ecosystem on Earth is free from micro-nanoplastics (MNPs). This situation has raised profound concerns regarding their potential impact on human health. Recently, both in vivo animal and in vitro human cellular models have shown the potential to identify the harmful effects of MNPs at the genome level. The emerging epigenetic impact of MNP exposure is characterized by short-term alterations in chromatin remodelling and miRNA modulation. However, to understand long-term epigenetic changes and potential transgenerational effects, substantial and more environmentally realistic exposure studies are needed. In the current review, the intricate epigenetic responses, including the NHL-2-EKL-1, NDK-1-KSR1/2, and WRT-3-ASP-2 cascades, wnt-signalling, and TGF- β signalling, established in model organisms such as C. elegans, mice, and human cell lines upon exposure to MNPs, were systematically examined. This comprehensive analysis aimed to predict human pathways by identifying human homologs using databases and algorithms. We are confident that various parallel miRNA pathways, specifically the KSR-ERK-MAPK pathway, FOXO-Insulin cascade, and GPX3-HIF-α in humans, may be influenced by MNP exposure. This influence may lead to disruptions in key metabolic and immune pathways, including glucose balance, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. Therefore, we believe that these genes and pathways could serve as potential biomarkers for future studies. Additionally, this review emphasizes the origin, dispersion, and distribution of plastics, providing valuable insights into the complex relationship between plastics and human health while elaborating on the epigenetic impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshini Subramanian
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Sciences, REVA University, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India.
| | | | - Dhanasekaran Dharmadurai
- Department of Microbiology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, Tamil Nadu, India.
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10
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Sun L, Li Y, Lan J, Bao Y, Zhao Z, Shi R, Zhao X, Fan Y. Enhanced sinks of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) in marine sediment compared to freshwater sediment: Influencing factors and mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 939:173586. [PMID: 38810752 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The difference in the transport behaviors of nanoplastics consistently assistant with their toxicities to benthic and other aquatic organisms is still unclear between freshwater and marine sediments. Here, the mobilities of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) and key environmental factors including salinity and humic acid (HA) were systematically studied. In the sand column experiments, both tested PSNPs in the freshwater system (100 nm NPs (100NPs): 90.15 %; 500 nm NPs (500NPs): 54.22 %) presented much higher penetration ratio than in the marine system (100NPs: 8.09 %; 500NPs: 19.04 %). The addition of marine sediment with a smaller median grain diameter caused a much more apparent decline in NPs mobility (100NPs: from 8.09 % to 1.85 %; 500NPs: from 19.04 % to 3.51 %) than that containing freshwater sediment (100NPs: from 90.15 % to 83.56 %; 500NPs: from 54.22 % to 41.63 %). Interestingly, adding HA obviously led to decreased and slightly increased mobilities for NPs in freshwater systems, but dramatically improved performance for NPs in marine systems. Electrostatic and steric repulsions, corresponding to alteration of zeta potential and hydrodynamic diameter of NPs and sands, as well as minerals owing to adsorption of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and aggregations from varied salinity, are responsible for the mobility difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Yaru Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Jing Lan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Yan Bao
- Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China.
| | - Zongshan Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Rongguang Shi
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, No. 31 Fukang Road, 300191 Nankai District, Tianjin, China.
| | - Xingchen Zhao
- Department for Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Ying Fan
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of the Causes and Control of Atmospheric Pollution, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China.
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11
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Chang N, Chen L, Wang N, Cui Q, Qiu T, Zhao S, He H, Zeng Y, Dai W, Duan C, Fang L. Unveiling the impacts of microplastic pollution on soil health: A comprehensive review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175643. [PMID: 39173746 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Soil contamination by microplastics (MPs) has emerged as a significant global concern. Although traditionally associated with crop production, contemporary understanding of soil health has expanded to include a broader range of factors, including animal safety, microbial diversity, ecological functions, and human health protection. This paradigm shifts underscores the imperative need for a comprehensive assessment of the effects of MPs on soil health. Through an investigation of various soil health indicators, this review endeavors to fill existing knowledge gaps, drawing insights from recent studies conducted between 2021 and 2024, to elucidate how MPs may disrupt soil ecosystems and compromise their crucial functions. This review provides a thorough analysis of the processes leading to MP contamination in soil environments and highlights film residues as major contributors to agricultural soils. MPs entering the soil detrimentally affect crop productivity by hindering growth and other physiological processes. Moreover, MPs hinder the survival, growth, and reproductive rates of the soil fauna, posing potential health risks. Additionally, a systematic evaluation of the impact of MPs on soil microbes and nutrient cycling highlights the diverse repercussions of MP contamination. Moreover, within soil-plant systems, MPs interact with other pollutants, resulting in combined pollution. For example, MPs contain oxygen-containing functional groups on their surfaces that form high-affinity hydrogen bonds with other pollutants, leading to prolonged persistence in the soil environment thereby increasing the risk to soil health. In conclusion, we succinctly summarize the current research challenges related to the mediating effects of MPs on soil health and suggest promising directions for future studies. Addressing these challenges and adopting interdisciplinary approaches will advance our understanding of the intricate interplay between MPs and soil ecosystems, thereby providing evidence-based strategies for mitigating their adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Chang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Li Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Na Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Nonmetallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Shuling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Haoran He
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Wei Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Chengjiao Duan
- College of Resources and Environment, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Nonmetallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China.
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12
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Xie X, Wang K, Shen X, Li X, Wang S, Yuan S, Li B, Wang Z. Potential mechanisms of aortic medial degeneration promoted by co-exposure to microplastics and lead. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 475:134854. [PMID: 38889468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have attracted widespread attention because they can lead to combined toxicity by adsorbing heavy metals from the environment. Exposure to lead (Pb), a frequently adsorbed heavy metal by MPs, is common. In the current study, the coexistence of MPs and Pb was assessed in human samples. Then, mice were used as models to examine how co-exposure to MPs and Pb promotes aortic medial degeneration. The results showed that MPs and Pb co-exposure were detected in patients with aortic disease. In mice, MPs and Pb co-exposure promoted the damage of elastic fibers, loss of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and release of inflammatory factors. In vitro cell models revealed that co-exposure to MPs and Pb induced excessive reactive oxygen species generation, impaired mitochondrial function, and triggered PANoptosome assembly in VSMCs. These events led to PANoptosis and inflammation through the cAMP/PKA-ROS signaling pathway. However, the use of the PKA activator 8-Br-cAMP or mitochondrial ROS scavenger Mito-TEMPO improved, mitochondrial function in VSMCs, reduced cell death, and inhibited inflammatory factor release. Taken together, the present study provided novel insights into the combined toxicity of MPs and Pb co-exposure on the aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Xie
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Kexin Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Su Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shun Yuan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China; Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 9# Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan 430000, Hubei Province, China.
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13
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Chen JY, Niu SH, Li HY, Liao XD, Xing SC. Multiomics analysis of the effects of manure-borne doxycycline combined with oversized fiber microplastics on pak choi growth and the risk of antibiotic resistance gene transmission. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 475:134931. [PMID: 38889467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134931] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
In this study, oversized microplastics (OMPs) were intentionally introduced into soil containing manure-borne doxycycline (DOX). This strategic approach was used to systematically examine the effects of combined OMP and DOX pollution on the growth of pak choi, analyze alterations in soil environmental metabolites, and explore the potential migration of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The results revealed a more pronounced impact of DOX than of OMPs. Slender-fiber OMPs (SF OMPs) had a more substantial influence on the growth of pak choi than did coarse-fiber OMPs (CF OMPs). Conversely, CF OMPs had a more significant effect on the migration of ARGs within the system. When DOX was combined with OMPs, the negative effects of DOX on pak choi growth were mitigated through the synthesis of indole through the adjustment of carbon metabolism and amino acid metabolism in pak choi roots. In this process, Pseudohongiellaceae and Xanthomonadaceae were key bacteria. During the migration of ARGs, the potential host bacterium Limnobacter should be considered. Additionally, the majority of potential host bacteria in the pak choi endophytic environment were associated with tetG. This study provides insights into the intricate interplay among DOX, OMPs, ARGs, plant growth, soil metabolism, and the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yuan Chen
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Shi-Hua Niu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Hai-Yang Li
- Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xin-Di Liao
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, and Key Laboratory of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Livestock Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Si-Cheng Xing
- Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, and Key Laboratory of Chicken Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Livestock Breeding, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China.
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14
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Xu R, Cao JW, Geng Y, Xu TC, Guo MY. Polystyrene nano-plastics impede skeletal muscle development and induce lipid accumulation via the PPARγ/LXRβ pathway in vivo and in vitro in mice. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03831-1. [PMID: 39096369 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03831-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Nano-plastics (NPs) have emerged as a significant environmental pollutant, widely existing in water environment, and pose a serious threat to health and safety with the intake of animals. Skeletal muscle, a vital organ for complex life activities and functional demands, has received limited attention regarding the effects of NPs. In this study, the effects of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) on skeletal muscle development were studied by oral administration of different sizes (1 mg/kg) of PS-NPs in mice. The findings revealed that PS-NPs resulted in skeletal muscle damage and significantly hindered muscle differentiation, exhibiting an inverse correlation with PS-NPs particle size. Morphological analysis demonstrated PS-NPs caused partial disruption of muscle fibers, increased spacing between fibers, and lipid accumulation. RT-qPCR and western blots analyses indicated that PS-NPs exposure downregulated the expression of myogenic differentiation-related factors (Myod, Myog and Myh2), activated PPARγ/LXRβ pathway, and upregulated the expressions of lipid differentiation-related factors (SREBP1C, SCD-1, FAS, ACC1, CD36/FAT, ADIPOQ, C/EBPα and UCP-1). In vitro experiments, C2C12 cells were used to confirm cellular penetration of PS-NPs (0, 100, 200, 400 μg/mL) through cell membranes along with activation of PPARγ expression. Furthermore, to verify LXRβ as a key signaling molecule, silencing RNA transfection experiments were conducted, resulting in no increase in the expressions of PPARγ, LXRβ, SREBP1C, FAS, CD36/FAT, ADIPOQ, C/EBPα and UCP-1 even after exposure to PS-NPs. However, the expressions of SCD-1and ACC1 remained unaffected. The present study evidenced that exposure to PS-NPs induced lipid accumulation via the PPARγ/LXRβ pathway thereby influencing skeletal muscle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Wen Cao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Geng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Chao Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng-Yao Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Naeem A, Farooq MA, Shafiq M, Arshad M, Din AA, Alazba AA. Quantification and polymeric characterization of microplastics in composts and their accumulation in lettuce. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142520. [PMID: 38834092 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Organic fertilizers have become a vector for the transport of microplastics (MPs), which pose human health concerns through the food chain. This study aimed to quantify and characterize MPs in eight different compost samples of various raw materials and their subsequent translocation to lettuce (Lacuta sativa) grown on contaminated composts. The results revealed that the MP abundance ranged from 3810 to 16530 MP/kg. Municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) had highest abundance (16082 ± 632 MP/kg), followed by leaf compost (LC) and organic compost (OC) (6299 ± 1011 and 3680 ± 419 MP/kg, respectively). MPs of <100 μm in size were most dominant in MSWC and LC. Fragments and fibers were the prevalent shape types, with white/transparent colored MPs being more abundant. Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were the dominant polymers. MPs accumulation in the lettuce leaves was greatest in the lettuce plants grown on MSWC, followed by those grown on LC and OC, indicating that MSWC grown lettuce is not suitable for human consumption. The decrease in the growth (leaf length, number of leaves, leaf fresh and weights) and physiological (membrane stability index, relative water contents) parameters of lettuce was in line with the trend of MP accumulations. Hence, it is highly important to regulate the plastic contents in compost because it is a threat to ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamna Naeem
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ansar Farooq
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan; Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK.
| | - Muhammad Shafiq
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, PO Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Arshad
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Aamir Alaud Din
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Abdulrahman Ali Alazba
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, PO Box 2460, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Barbieri M, Prattichizzo F, La Grotta R, Matacchione G, Scisciola L, Fontanella RA, Tortorella G, Benedetti R, Carafa V, Marfella R, Ceriello A, Paolisso G. Is it time to revise the fighting strategy toward type 2 diabetes? Sex and pollution as new risk factors. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 99:102405. [PMID: 38971321 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102405] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic condition affecting around 537 million individuals worldwide, poses significant challenges, particularly among the elderly population. The etiopathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) depends on a combination of the effects driven by advancing age, genetic background, and lifestyle habits, e.g. overnutrition. These factors influence the development of T2D differently in men and women, with an obvious sexual dimorphism possibly underlying the diverse clinical features of the disease in different sexes. More recently, environmental pollution, estimated to cause 9 million deaths every year, is emerging as a novel risk factor for the development of T2D. Indeed, exposure to atmospheric pollutants such as PM2.5, O3, NO2, and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP)s, along with their combination and bioaccumulation, is associated with the development of T2D and obesity, with a 15 % excess risk in case of exposure to very high levels of PM2.5. Similar data are available for plasticizer molecules, e.g. bisphenol A and phthalates, emerging endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Even though causality is still debated at this stage, preclinical evidence sustains the ability of multiple pollutants to affect pancreatic function, promote insulin resistance, and alter lipid metabolism, possibly contributing to T2D onset and progression. In addition, preclinical findings suggest a possible role also for plastic itself in the development of T2D. Indeed, pioneeristic studies evidenced that micro- or nanoplastics (MNP)s, particles in the micro- or nano- range, promote cellular damage, senescence, inflammation, and metabolic disturbances, leading to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism in animal and/or in vitro models. Here we synthesize recent knowledge relative to the association between air-related or plastic-derived pollutants and the incidence of T2D, discussing also the possible mechanistic links suggested by the available literature. We then anticipate the need for future studies in the field of candidate therapeutic strategies limiting pollution-induced damage in preclinical models, such as SGLT-2 inhibitors. We finally postulate that future guidelines for T2D prevention should consider pollution and sex an additional risk factors to limit the diabetes pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangela Barbieri
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Giulia Matacchione
- Clinic of Laboratory and Precision Medicine, IRCCS INRCA, 60121 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Lucia Scisciola
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Anna Fontanella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tortorella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Benedetti
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Carafa
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy; Biogem, Molecular Biology and Genetics Research Institute, Ariano Irpino 83031, Italy
| | - Raffaele Marfella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Paolisso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; UniCamillus, International Medical University, Rome, Italy
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17
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Tayyab M, Kazmi SSUH, Pastorino P, Saqib HSA, Yaseen ZM, Hanif MS, Islam W. Microplastics in agroecosystems: Soil-plant dynamics and effective remediation approaches. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142641. [PMID: 38906184 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142641] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Increasing microplastic (MP) pollution, primarily from anthropogenic sources such as plastic film mulching, waste degradation, and agricultural practices, has emerged as a pressing global environmental concern. This review examines the direct and indirect effects of MPs on crops, both in isolation and in conjunction with other contaminants, to elucidate their combined toxicological impacts. Organic fertilizers predominantly contain 78.6% blue, 9.5% black, and 8.3% red MPs, while irrigation water in agroecosystems contains 66.2% white, 15.4% blue, and 8.1% black MPs, ranging from 0-1 mm to 4-5 mm in size. We elucidate five pivotal insights: Firstly, soil MPs exhibit affinity towards crop roots, seeds, and vascular systems, impeding water and nutrient uptake. Secondly, MPs induce oxidative stress in crops, disrupting vital metabolic processes. Thirdly, leachates from MPs elicit cytotoxic and genotoxic responses in crops. Fourthly, MPs disrupt soil biotic and abiotic dynamics, influencing water and nutrient availability for crops. Lastly, the cumulative effects of MPs and co-existing contaminants in agricultural soils detrimentally affect crop yield. Thus, we advocate agronomic interventions as practical remedies. These include biochar input, application of growth regulators, substitution of plastic mulch with crop residues, promotion of biological degradation, and encouragement of crop diversification. However, the efficacy of these measures varies based on MP type and dosage. As MP volumes increase, exploring alternative mitigation strategies such as bio-based plastics and environmentally friendly biotechnological solutions is imperative. Recognizing the persistence of plastics, policymakers should enact legislation favoring the mitigation and substitution of non-degradable materials with bio-derived or compostable alternatives. This review demonstrates the urgent need for collective efforts to alleviate MP pollution and emphasizes sustainable interventions for agricultural ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tayyab
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
| | - Syed Shabi Ul Hassan Kazmi
- Institute of Marine Sciences and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Urban Environment Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Hafiz Sohaib Ahmed Saqib
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan, 666303, China
| | - Zaher Mundher Yaseen
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Center for Membranes and Water Security, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Sajid Hanif
- Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Waqar Islam
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Desert Plant Roots Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
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18
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Convertino F, Carroccio SC, Cocca MC, Dattilo S, Dell'Acqua AC, Gargiulo L, Nizzetto L, Riccobene PM, Schettini E, Vox G, Zannini D, Cerruti P. The fate of post-use biodegradable PBAT-based mulch films buried in agricultural soil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174697. [PMID: 39019280 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
The fate of black biodegradable mulch film (MF) based on starch and poly(butylene-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) in agricultural soil is investigated herein. Pristine (BIO-0) and UV-aged film samples (BIO-A192) were buried for 16 months at an experimental field in southern Italy. Visual, physical, chemical, morphological, and mechanical analyses were carried out before and after samples burial. Film residues in the form of macro- and microplastics in soil were analyzed at the end of the trial. Progressive deterioration of both pristine and UV-aged samples, with surface loss and alterations in mechanical properties, occurred from 42 days of burial. After 478 days, the apparent surface of BIO-0 and BIO-A192 films decreased by 57 % and 66 %, respectively. Burial determined a rapid depletion of starch from the polymeric blend, especially for the BIO-A192, while the degradation of the polyester phase was slower. Upon burial, an enrichment of aromatic moieties of PBAT in the film residues was observed, as well as microplastics release to soil. The analysis of the MF degradation products extracted from soil (0.006-0.008 % by mass in the soil samples) revealed the predominant presence of adipate moieties. After 478 days of burial, about 23 % and 17 % of the initial amount of BIO-0 and BIO-A192, respectively, were extracted from the soil. This comprehensive study underscores the complexity of biodegradation phenomena that involve the new generation of mulch films in the field. The different biodegradability of the polymeric components, the climate, and the soil conditions that did not strictly meet the parameters required for the standard test method devised for MFs, have significantly influenced their degradation rate. This finding further emphasizes the importance of implementing field experiments to accurately assess the real effects of biodegradable MFs on soil health and overall agroecosystem sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Convertino
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Carola Carroccio
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Cocca
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
| | - Sandro Dattilo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Catania, Italy
| | | | - Luca Gargiulo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
| | - Luca Nizzetto
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway; Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Paolo Maria Riccobene
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Catania, Italy
| | - Evelia Schettini
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | - Giuliano Vox
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Domenico Zannini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies "G. Natta" (CNR-SCITEC), Genova, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Cerruti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (CNR-IPCB), Pozzuoli (Naples), Italy
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Dogra K, Kumar M, Deoli Bahukhandi K, Zang J. Traversing the prevalence of microplastics in soil-agro ecosystems: Origin, occurrence, and pollutants synergies. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 266:104398. [PMID: 39032427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquity of plastics in modern life has made them a significant environmental concern and a marker of the Anthropocene era. The degradation of plastics results in the formation of microplastics (MPs), which measure 5 mm or less. The coexistence of MPs with other pollutants found in sludge, water treatment plant effluents, surface water, and groundwater, shapes the environmental landscape together. Despite extensive investigation, the long-term implications of MPs in soils remain uncertain, underscoring the importance of delving into their transportation and interactions with soil biota and other contaminants. The present article provides a comprehensive overview of MPs contamination in soil, encompassing its sources, prevalence, features, and interactions with soil flora and fauna, heavy metals, and organic compounds. The sources of MPs in soil agroecosystems are mulching, composting, littering, sewage sludge, irrigation water, and fertilizer application. The concentration of MPs reported in plastic mulch, littering, and sewage sludge is 503 ± 2760 items per kg-1, 4483 ± 2315 MPs/kg, and 11,100 ± 570 per/kg. The transport of MPs in soil agroecosystems is due to their horizontal and vertical migration including biotic and abiotic mobility. The article also highlighted the analytical process, which includes sampling planning, collection, purification, extraction, and identification techniques of MPs in soil agroecosystems. The mechanism in the interaction of MPs and organic pollutants includes surface adsorption or adhesion cation bridging, hydrogen bonding, charge transfer, ligand exchange, van der Waals interactions, and ion exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Dogra
- Sustainability Cluster, School of Advanced Engineering, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Sustainability Cluster, School of Advanced Engineering, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India; Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| | - Kanchan Deoli Bahukhandi
- Sustainability Cluster, School of Advanced Engineering, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Jian Zang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Green Buildings and Built Environments, School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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20
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Cao X, Wang C, Luo X, Yue L, White JC, Wang Z, Xing B. Nano- and Microplastics Increase the Occurrence of Bacterial Wilt in Tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum L.). ACS NANO 2024; 18:18071-18084. [PMID: 38924759 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05875] [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: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Concern over nano- and microplastic contamination of terrestrial ecosystems has been increasing. However, little is known about the effect of nano- and microplastics on the response of terrestrial ecosystems already under biotic stress. Here, nano- and microplastics at 150-500 mg·kg-1 were exposed to tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.), and the results demonstrate that the presence of nano- and microplastics increased the occurrence of bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum in tomatoes as a function of contaminant concentration, surface modification, and size. Our work shows that nanoplastics (30 nm, 250 mg·kg-1) increased the disease incidence by 2.19-fold. The disease severities in amino- and carboxyl-modified nanoplastic treatments were 30.4 and 21.7% higher than that in unmodified nanoplastic treatment, respectively. The severity of disease under the influence of different-sized nano- and microplastic treatments followed the order 30 > 100 nm > 1 > 50 μm. Mechanistically, nanoplastics disrupted the structure of the tomato rhizosphere soil bacterial community and suppressed the induced systemic resistance in tomato; nanoplastics in planta decreased the salicylic acid and jasmonic acid content in tomatoes, thus inhibiting systemic acquired resistance; and microplastics increased the soil water retention, leading to increased pathogen abundance in the rhizosphere. Additionally, the leachates from nano- and microplastics had no effect on disease occurrence or the growth of tomatoes. Our findings highlight a potential risk of nano- and microplastic contamination to agriculture sustainability and food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesong Cao
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Chuanxi Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xing Luo
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Le Yue
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jason C White
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, United States
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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21
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Li Y, Shi X, Zeng M, Qin P, Fu M, Luo S, Tang C, Mo C, Yu F. Effect of polyethylene microplastics on antibiotic resistance genes: A comparison based on different soil types and plant types. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134581. [PMID: 38743972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134581] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are two types of contaminants that are widely present in the soil environment. MPs can act as carriers of microbes, facilitating the colonization and spread of ARGs and thus posing potential hazards to ecosystem safety and human health. In the present study, we explored the microbial networks and ARG distribution characteristics in different soil types (heavy metal (HM)-contaminated soil and agricultural soil planted with different plants: Bidens pilosa L., Ipomoea aquatica F., and Brassica chinensis L.) after the application of MPs and evaluated environmental factors, potential microbial hosts, and ARGs. The microbial communities in the three rhizosphere soils were closely related to each other, and the modularity of the microbial networks was greater than 0.4. Moreover, the core taxa in the microbial networks, including Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Myxococcota, were important for resisting environmental stress. The ARG resistance mechanisms were dominated by antibiotic efflux in all three rhizosphere soils. Based on the annotation results, the MP treatments induced changes in the relative abundance of microbes carrying ARGs, and the G1-5 treatment significantly increased the abundance of MuxB in Verrucomicrobia, Elusimicrobia, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Acidobacteria. Path analysis showed that changes in MP particle size and dosage may indirectly affect soil enzyme activities by changing pH, which affects microbes and ARGs. We suggest that MPs may provide surfaces for ARG accumulation, leading to ARG enrichment in plants. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that MPs, as potentially persistent pollutants, can affect different types of soil environments and that the presence of ARGs may cause substantial environmental risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Xinwei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Meng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Peiqing Qin
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Mingyue Fu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Shiyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Chijian Tang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Cuiju Mo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Fangming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China.
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22
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Colpaert R, de Vaufleury A, Rieffel D, Amiot C, Crini N, Gimbert F. The effects of polystyrene microparticles on the environmental availability and bioavailability of As, Cd and Hg in soil for the land snail Cantareus aspersus. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 947:174451. [PMID: 38969124 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The combined contamination of terrestrial environments by metal(loid)s (MEs) and microplastics (MPs) is a major environmental issue. Once MPs enter soils, they can interact with MEs and modify their environmental availability, environmental bioavailability, and potential toxic effects on biota. Although research efforts have been made to describe the underlying mechanisms driving MP and ME interactions, the effects of MPs on ME bioavailability in terrestrial Mollusca have not yet been documented. To fill this gap, we exposed the terrestrial snail Cantareus aspersus to different combinations of polystyrene (PS) and arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), or mercury (Hg) concentrations. Using kinetic approaches, we then assessed the variations in the environmental availability of As, Cd or Hg after three weeks of equilibration and in the environmental bioavailability of As, Cd or Hg to snails after four weeks of exposure. We showed that while environmental availability was influenced by the total ME concentration, the effects of PS were limited. Although an increase in As availability was observed for the highest exposure concentrations at the beginning of the experiment, the soil ageing processes led to rapid adsorption in the soil regardless of the PS particle concentration. Concerning transfers to snail, ME bioaccumulation was ME concentration-dependent but not modified by the PS concentration in the soils. Nevertheless, the kinetic approaches evidenced an increase in As (2- to 2.6-fold) and Cd (1.6-fold), but not Hg, environmental bioavailability or excretion (2.3- to 3.6-fold for As, 1.8-fold for Cd) at low PS concentrations. However, these impacts were no longer observable at the highest PS exposure concentrations because of the increase in the bioaccessibility of MEs in the snail digestive tract. The generalization of such hormetic responses and the identification of the precise mechanisms involved necessitate further research to deepen our understanding of the MP-mediated behaviour of MEs in co-occurring scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Colpaert
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France
| | - Annette de Vaufleury
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France
| | - Dominique Rieffel
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France
| | - Caroline Amiot
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France
| | - Nadia Crini
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Gimbert
- Chrono-environnement UMR6249, CNRS Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000 Besançon, France.
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23
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Hao F, Yan ZY, Wang Z, Yan XP. Persistent Luminescence Nanoplatform for Autofluorescence-Free Tracking of Submicrometer Plastic Particles in Plant. Anal Chem 2024; 96:10662-10668. [PMID: 38875183 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The uptake of plastic particles by plants and their transport through the food chain make great risks to biota and human health. Therefore, it is important to trace plastic particles in the plant. Traditional fluorescence imaging in plants usually suffers significant autofluorescence background. Here, we report a persistent luminescence nanoplatform for autofluorescence-free imaging and quantitation of submicrometer plastic particles in plant. The nanoplatform was fabricated by doping persistent luminescence nanoparticles (PLNPs) onto polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles. Cr3+-doped zinc gallate PLNP was employed as the dopant for autofluorescence-free imaging due to its persistent luminescence nature. In addition, the Ga element in PLNP was used as a proxy to quantify the PS in the plant by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Thus, the developed nanoplatform allows not only dual-mode autofluorescence-free imaging (persistent luminescence and laser-ablation ICP-MS) but also ICP-MS quantitation for tracking PS in plant. Application of this nanoplatform in a typical plant model Arabidopsis thaliana revealed that PS mainly distributed in the root (>99.45%) and translocated very limited (<0.55%) to the shoot. The developed nanoplatform has great potential for quantitative tracing of submicrometer plastic particles to investigate the environmental process and impact of plastic particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Hao
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhu-Ying Yan
- Analysis and Testing Center, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, and School of Environment and Ecology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiu-Ping Yan
- Institute of Analytical Food Safety, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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24
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Song X, Li C, Qiu Z, Wang C, Zeng Q. Ecotoxicological effects of polyethylene microplastics and lead (Pb) on the biomass, activity, and community diversity of soil microbes. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:119012. [PMID: 38704010 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119012] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and heavy metals are ubiquitous and persistent contaminants that are widely distributed worldwide, yet little is known about the effects of their interaction on soil ecosystems. A soil incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the individual and combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) and lead (Pb) on soil enzymatic activities, microbial biomass, respiration rate, and community diversity. The results indicate that the presence of PE-MPs notably reduced soil pH and elevated soil Pb bioavailability, potentially exacerbated the combined toxicity on the biogeochemical cycles of soil nutrients, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, and the activities of soil urease, sucrase, and alkaline phosphatase. Soil CO2 emissions increased by 7.9% with PE-MPs alone, decreased by 46.3% with single Pb, and reduced by 69.4% with PE-MPs and Pb co-exposure, compared to uncontaminated soils. Specifically, the presence of PE-MPs and Pb, individually and in combination, facilitated the soil metabolic quotient, leading to reduced microbial metabolic efficiency. Moreover, the addition of Pb and PE-MPs modified the composition of the microbial community, leading to the enrichment of specific taxa. Tax4Fun analysis showed the effects of Pb, PE-MPs and their combination on the biogeochemical processes and ecological functions of microbes were mainly by altering amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, membrane transport, and signal transduction. These findings offer valuable insights into the ecotoxicological effects of combined PE-MPs and Pb on soil microbial dynamics, reveals key assembly mechanisms and environmental drivers, and highlights the potential threat of MPs and heavy metals to the multifunctionality of soil ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiliang Song
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Changjiang Li
- School of Environment Science & Spatial Informatics, China University of Mining & Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Zhennan Qiu
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Chenghui Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China
| | - Qiangcheng Zeng
- College of Life Sciences, Dezhou University, De'zhou, 253023, China.
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25
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Ferrante F, Pasquini E, Cappa F, Bellocchio L, Baracchi D. Unravelling the microplastic menace: Different polymers additively increase bee vulnerability. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 352:124087. [PMID: 38703977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124087] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are growing and ubiquitous environmental pollutants and represent one of the greatest contemporary challenges caused by human activities. Current research has predominantly examined the singular toxicological effects of individual polymers, neglecting the prevailing reality of organisms confronted with complex contaminant mixtures and potential synergistic effects. To fill this research gap, we investigated the lethal and sublethal effects of two common MPs, polystyrene (PS - 4.8-5.8 μm) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA - 1-40 μm), and their combination (MIX), on the pollinating insect Apis mellifera. For each treatment, we evaluated the oral toxicity of two ecologically relevant and one higher concentration (0.5, 5 and 50 mg/L) and analysed their effects on the immune system and worker survival. As immune activation can alter the cuticular hydrocarbon profile of honey bees, we used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to investigate whether MPs lead to changes in the chemical profile of foragers and behavioural assay to test whether such changes affect behavioural patterns of social recognition, undermining overall colony integrity. The results indicate an additive negative effect of PS and PMMA on bee survival and immune response, even at ecologically relevant concentrations. Furthermore, alterations in cuticle profiles were observed with both MPs at the highest and intermediate concentrations, with PMMA being mainly responsible. Both MPs exposure resulted in a reduction in the abundance of several cuticular compounds. Hive entry guards did not show increased inspection or aggressive behaviour towards exposed foragers, allowing them to enter the colony without being treated differently from uncontaminated foragers. These findings raise concerns not only for the health of individual bees, but also for the entire colony, which could be at risk if contaminated nestmates enter the colony undetected, allowing MPs to spread throughout the hive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Ferrante
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy; Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Viterbo, Largo dell'Università, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Elisa Pasquini
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy; Center for Mind/Brain Science (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Federico Cappa
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Bellocchio
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
| | - David Baracchi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano, 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy.
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26
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Ji Q, Zhang Y, Xia Y, Wang X, He M, Yang Y, Sabel CE, Huang B, Zhu F, Shao M, Xie E, Yan G, Li G, Zhou A, He H, Zhang L, Jin Z. Centennial Records of Microplastics in Lake Cores in Huguangyan Maar Lake, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11140-11151. [PMID: 38867458 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01970] [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: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic records from lake cores can reconstruct the plastic pollution history. However, the associations between anthropogenic activities and microplastic accumulation are not well understood. Huguangyan Maar Lake (HML) is a deep-enclosed lake without inlets and outlets, where the sedimentary environment is ideal for preserving a stable and historical microplastic record. Microplastic (size: 10-500 μm) characteristics in the HML core were identified using the Laser Direct Infrared Imaging system. The earliest detectable microplastics appeared unit in 1955 (1.1 items g-1). The microplastic abundance ranged from n.d. to 615.2 items g-1 in 1955-2019 with an average of 134.9 items g-1. The abundance declined slightly during the 1970s and then increased rapidly after China's Reform and Opening Up in 1978. Sixteen polymer types were detectable, with polyethylene and polypropylene dominating, accounting for 23.5 and 23.3% of the total abundance, and the size at 10-100 μm accounted for 80%. Socioeconomic factors dominated the microplastic accumulation based on the random forest modeling, and the contributions of GDP per capita, plastic-related industry yield, and total crop yield were, respectively, 13.9, 35.1, and 9.3% between 1955-2019. The total crop yield contribution further increased by 1.7% after 1978. Coarse sediment particles increased with soil erosion exacerbated microplastics discharging into the sediment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingsong Ji
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yanxia Zhang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
- BERTHA - Big Data Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - Yubao Xia
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xinkai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Maoyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Science (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Clive E Sabel
- BERTHA - Big Data Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, U.K
| | - Bin Huang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Fengxiao Zhu
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Min Shao
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Enze Xie
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Guojing Yan
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Guonai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Aoyu Zhou
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Huan He
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhangdong Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an 710061, China
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Seo Y, Zhou Z, Lai Y, Chen G, Pembleton K, Wang S, He JZ, Song P. Micro- and nanoplastics in agricultural soils: Assessing impacts and navigating mitigation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172951. [PMID: 38703838 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Micro-/nanoplastic contamination in agricultural soils raises concerns on agroecosystems and poses potential health risks. Some of agricultural soils have received significant amounts of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) through plastic mulch film and biosolid applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of the MNP impacts on soils and plants remains elusive. The interaction between soil particles and MNPs is an extremely complex issue due to the different properties and heterogeneity of soils and the diverse characteristics of MNPs. Moreover, MNPs are a class of relatively new anthropogenic pollutants that may negatively affect plants and food. Herein, we presented a comprehensive review of the impacts of MNPs on the properties of soil and the growth of plants. We also discussed different strategies for mitigating or eliminating MNP contamination. Moreover, perspectives for future research on MNP contamination in the agricultural soils are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonjung Seo
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Zhezhe Zhou
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia; Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Yunru Lai
- Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
| | - Guangnan Chen
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
| | - Keith Pembleton
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia
| | - Shaobin Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Ji-Zheng He
- School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pingan Song
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia; Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Australia.
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Wang M, Jiang X, Wei Z, Wang L, Song J, Cen P. Enhanced Cadmium Adsorption Dynamics in Water and Soil by Polystyrene Microplastics and Biochar. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:1067. [PMID: 38998672 PMCID: PMC11243743 DOI: 10.3390/nano14131067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are prevalent emerging pollutants in soil environments, acting as carriers for other contaminants and facilitating combined pollution along with toxic metals like cadmium (Cd). This interaction increases toxic effects and poses substantial threats to ecosystems and human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the hydrodynamic adsorption of Cd by conducting experiments where polystyrene microplastics (PS) and biochar (BC) coexisted across various particle sizes (10 µm, 20 µm, and 30 µm). Then, soil incubation experiments were set up under conditions of combined pollution, involving various concentrations (0.5 g·kg-1, 5 g·kg-1, 50 g·kg-1) and particle sizes of PS and BC to assess their synergistic effects on the soil environment. The results suggest that the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.8642) provides a better description of the adsorption dynamics of Cd by PS and BC compared to the pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.7711), with an adsorption saturation time of 400 min. The Cd adsorption process in the presence of PS and BC is more accurately modeled using the Freundlich isotherm (R2 > 0.98), indicating the predominance of multilayer physical adsorption. The coexistence of 10 µm and 20 µm PS particles with BC enhanced Cd absorption, while 30 µm PS particles had an inhibitory effect. In soil incubation experiments, variations in PS particle size increased the exchangeable Cd speciation by 99.52% and decreased the residual speciation by 18.59%. The addition of microplastics notably impacted the exchangeable Cd speciation (p < 0.05), with smaller PS particles leading to more significant increases in the exchangeable content-showing respective increments of 45.90%, 106.96%, and 145.69%. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the mitigation mechanisms of biochar in the face of combined pollution from microplastics and heavy metals, offering theoretical support and valuable insights for managing such contamination scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Wang
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Xuyou Jiang
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Zhangdong Wei
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Lin Wang
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Jiashu Song
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Peitong Cen
- Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (M.W.); (X.J.); (J.S.); (P.C.)
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29
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Li S, Li F, Bao Y, Peng A, Lyu B. Polyethylene and sulfa antibiotic remediation in soil using a multifunctional degrading bacterium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 930:172619. [PMID: 38649045 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172619] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
To obtain a multifunctional bacterium that can effectively degrade polyethylene (PE) and sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs), PE and SAs were selected as the primary research objects. Multifunctional degrading bacteria were isolated and screened from an environment in which plastics and antibiotics have existed for a long time. An efficient degrading strain, Raoultella sp., was screened by measuring the degradation performance of PE and SAs. We analyzed the changes in the microbial community of indigenous bacteria using 16S rRNA. After 60 d of degradation at 28 °C, the Raoultella strain to PE degradation rate was 4.20 %. The SA degradation rates were 96 % (sulfonathiazole, (ST)), 86 % (sulfamerazine, (SM)), 72 % (sulfamethazine, (SM2)) and 64 % (sulfamethoxazole, (SMX)), respectively. This bacterium increases the surface roughness of PE plastic films and produces numerous gullies, pits, and folds. In addition, after 60 d, the contact angle of the plastic film decreased from 92.965° to 70.205°, indicating a decrease in hydrophobicity. High-throughput sequencing analysis of the degrading bacteria revealed that the Raoultella strain encodes enzymes involved in PE and SA degradation. The results of this study not only provide a theoretical basis for further study of the degradation mechanism of multifunctional and efficient degrading bacteria but also provide potential strain resources for the biodegradation of waste plastics and antibiotics in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Fachao Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yanwei Bao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Ankai Peng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Boya Lyu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Carbon Neutrality and Eco-Environmental Technology Innovation Center of Qingdao, Qingdao 266071, China
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30
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Zhang C, Lin Y, Xue Q, Mo X, He M, Liu J. Nitrogen supply neutralizes the nanoplastic-plant interaction in a coastal wetland. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118572. [PMID: 38437902 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118572] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The presence of nanoplastics posed a potential threat to coastal saline-alkaline wetlands where nitrogen (N) fertilizer is being implemented as an important ecological restoration measure. Notwithstanding, the effects of N inputs on plant community in polypropylene-nanoplastics (PP-NPs) coexistence environments are largely unknown. To address this, we investigated the effects of PP-NPs addition alone or combined N supply on community aboveground biomass, morphological traits, diversity, composition, niche differentiation, interspecific interactions, and assembly. Our results showed that the PP-NPs addition alone reduced community aboveground biomass and morphological traits. However, the addition of high concentration (0.5%) PP-NPs alone favored community α-diversity and reduced community stability, which could be weakened through combined N supply. Overall, the effect of PP-NPs addition alone on plant community composition was greater than that of combined N supply. We also demonstrated PP-NPs addition alone and combined N supply reduced the niche breadth of the plant community and affected the niche overlap of dominant species. In the assembly of plant communities, stochastic processes played a dominant role. We conclude that N fertilization can amend the terrestrial nanoplastics pollution, thus mitigating the effects of PP-NPs on the plant community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730020, China
| | - Yingchao Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center on Biomass Resource Utilization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Qing Xue
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Xunqiang Mo
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Mengxuan He
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China.
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730020, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center on Biomass Resource Utilization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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31
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Yarahmadi A, Heidari S, Sepahvand P, Afkhami H, Kheradjoo H. Microplastics and environmental effects: investigating the effects of microplastics on aquatic habitats and their impact on human health. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1411389. [PMID: 38912266 PMCID: PMC11191580 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1411389] [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: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are particles with a diameter of <5 mm. The disposal of plastic waste into the environment poses a significant and pressing issue concern globally. Growing worry has been expressed in recent years over the impact of MPs on both human health and the entire natural ecosystem. MPs impact the feeding and digestive capabilities of marine organisms, as well as hinder the development of plant roots and leaves. Numerous studies have shown that the majority of individuals consume substantial quantities of MPs either through their dietary intake or by inhaling them. MPs have been identified in various human biological samples, such as lungs, stool, placenta, sputum, breast milk, liver, and blood. MPs can cause various illnesses in humans, depending on how they enter the body. Healthy and sustainable ecosystems depend on the proper functioning of microbiota, however, MPs disrupt the balance of microbiota. Also, due to their high surface area compared to their volume and chemical characteristics, MPs act as pollutant absorbers in different environments. Multiple policies and initiatives exist at both the domestic and global levels to mitigate pollution caused by MPs. Various techniques are currently employed to remove MPs, such as biodegradation, filtration systems, incineration, landfill disposal, and recycling, among others. In this review, we will discuss the sources and types of MPs, the presence of MPs in different environments and food, the impact of MPs on human health and microbiota, mechanisms of pollutant adsorption on MPs, and the methods of removing MPs with algae and microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aref Yarahmadi
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Parisa Sepahvand
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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32
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Xiong Z, Zhang Y, Chen X, Sha A, Xiao W, Luo Y, Han J, Li Q. Soil Microplastic Pollution and Microbial Breeding Techniques for Green Degradation: A Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1147. [PMID: 38930528 PMCID: PMC11205638 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061147] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), found in many places around the world, are thought to be more detrimental than other forms of plastics. At present, physical, chemical, and biological methods are being used to break down MPs. Compared with physical and chemical methods, biodegradation methods have been extensively studied by scholars because of their advantages of greenness and sustainability. There have been numerous reports in recent years summarizing the microorganisms capable of degrading MPs. However, there is a noticeable absence of a systematic summary on the technology for breeding strains that can degrade MPs. This paper summarizes the strain-breeding technology of MP-degrading strains for the first time in a systematic way, which provides a new idea for the breeding of efficient MP-degrading strains. Meanwhile, potential techniques for breeding bacteria that can degrade MPs are proposed, providing a new direction for selecting and breeding MP-degrading bacteria in the future. In addition, this paper reviews the sources and pollution status of soil MPs, discusses the current challenges related to the biodegradation of MPs, and emphasizes the safety of MP biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jialiang Han
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025, Chengluo Avenue, Longquanyi District, Chengdu 610106, China; (Z.X.); (Y.Z.); (X.C.); (A.S.); (W.X.); (Y.L.)
| | - Qiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Engineering & Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, No. 2025, Chengluo Avenue, Longquanyi District, Chengdu 610106, China; (Z.X.); (Y.Z.); (X.C.); (A.S.); (W.X.); (Y.L.)
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33
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Du A, Hu C, Wang X, Zhao Y, Xia W, Dai X, Wang L, Zhang S. Experimental Study on the Migration and Distribution of Microplastics in Desert Farmland Soil Under Drip Irrigation. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:1250-1259. [PMID: 38563658 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The microplastics (MPs) formed by broken plastic film may migrate in the soil under drip irrigation. To investigate the migration distribution of MPs in desert farmland soil under drip irrigation conditions, our study was conducted on farmland in Xinjiang (China). A MP drip irrigation penetration migration testing device was set up in combination with Xinjiang farmland irrigation methods to conduct a migration simulation experiment. The results showed that the migration amount of MPs in soil was significantly positively correlated with the amount of drip irrigation, and significantly negatively correlated with the soil depth; in addition, the relationship between the migration amount of MPs in different types of soil was: clay < sandy loam < sandy soil. Under drip irrigation conditions, the migration rates of MPs were 30.51%, 19.41%, and 10.29% in sandy soil, sandy loam soil, and clay, respectively. The migration ability of these three particle sizes of polyethylene MPs in soil was ranked as follows: 25 to 147 μm > 0 to 25 μm > 147 to 250 μm. When the drip irrigation volume was 2.6 to 3.2 L, horizontal migration distances of MPs exceeded 5 cm, and vertical migration distances reached more than 30 cm. Our findings provide reference data for the study of soil MP migration. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1250-1259. © 2024 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Du
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Can Hu
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Xufeng Wang
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Yachuan Zhao
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Wenhao Xia
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Xianxing Dai
- College of Agriculture, Tarim University, Alar, China
| | - Long Wang
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
| | - Shufeng Zhang
- College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Tarim University, Alaer, China
- The Key Laboratory of Colleges & Universities under the Department of Education of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Alaer, China
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Xu L, Xie W, Dai H, Wei S, Skuza L, Li J, Shi C, Zhang L. Effects of combined microplastics and heavy metals pollution on terrestrial plants and rhizosphere environment: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142107. [PMID: 38657695 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can enter the soil environment through industry, agricultural production and daily life sources. Their interaction with heavy metals (HMs) poses a significant threat to a variety of terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural ones, thereby affecting crop quality and threatening human health. This review initially addresses the impact of single and combined contamination with MPs and HMs on soil environment, including changes in soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and diversity, fertility, enzyme activity and resistance genes, as well as alterations in heavy metal speciation. The article further explores the effects of this pollution on the growth characteristics of terrestrial plants, such as plant biomass, antioxidant systems, metabolites and photosynthesis. In general, the combined contaminants tend to significantly affect soil environment and terrestrial plant growth, i.e., the impact of combined contaminants on plants weight ranged from -87.5% to 4.55%. Similarities and differences in contamination impact levels stem from the variations in contaminant types, sizes and doses of contaminants and the specific plant growth environments. In addition, MPs can not only infiltrate plants directly, but also significantly affect the accumulation of HMs in terrestrial plants. The heavy metals concentration in plants under the treatment of MPs were 70.26%-36.80%. The co-occurrence of these two pollution types can pose a serious threat to crop productivity and safety. Finally, this study proposes suggestions for future research aiming to address current gaps in knowledge, raises awareness about the impact of combined MPs + HMs pollution on plant growth and eco-environmental security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Wenjun Xie
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China.
| | - Huiping Dai
- College of Biological Science & Engineering, Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Bio-resources, Qinling-Bashan Mountains Bioresources Comprehensive Development C.I.C, State Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecological Environment Jointly Built By Qinba Province and Ministry, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001, China
| | - Shuhe Wei
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environment Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Lidia Skuza
- Institute of Biology, Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-415, Poland
| | - Jianan Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Cailing Shi
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Lichang Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
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Teampanpong J, Duengkae P. Terrestrial wildlife as indicators of microplastic pollution in western Thailand. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17384. [PMID: 38784402 PMCID: PMC11114113 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17384] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution in terrestrial wildlife represents a new conservation challenge, with research in this area, especially within protected areas (PAs), being scant. This study documents the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in terrestrial wildlife both inside and outside PAs in western Thailand. Carcasses of road-killed vertebrates in good condition, as well as live tadpoles, were collected to examine their exposure to plastic pollution. The digestive tracts of the vertebrate carcasses and the entire bodies of tadpoles were analyzed for MPs, which were identified if they measured over 50 µm. A total of 136 individuals from 48 vertebrate species were examined. The sample comprised snakes (44.12%), birds (11.03%), lizards (5.15%), tadpoles (32.25%), amphibians (5.88%), and mammals (1.47%). In total, 387 MPs were found in 44 species (91.67%), with an average occurrence of 3.25 ± 3.63 MPs per individual or 0.05 ± 0.08 MPs per gram of body weight. The quantities of MPs significantly varied among the animal groups, both in terms of number per individual (p < 0.05) and number per gram of body weight (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a significant difference in MP quantities was observed between specimens collected inside and outside PAs on an individual basis (p < 0.05), but not on a body weight basis (p = 0.07). Most MPs were fibers (77%), followed by fragments (22.22%), with only a minimal presence of film (0.52%) and foam (0.26%). Of all the MPs identified, 36.84% were confirmed as plastics or fibers made from natural materials, and 31.58% were plastics, including Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), and polyester (PES). Additionally, fibers made of cotton, and those containing polyurethane (PU), rayon, PES, and combinations of rayon and PU, were identified. The quantities of MPs were significantly influenced by animal body weight, factors associated with human settlement/activity, and land use types. Our findings highlight the prevalence of plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrates within Thai PAs. Further toxicological studies are required to establish plastic pollution standards. It is proposed that snakes, obtained from road kills, could serve as a non-invasive method for monitoring plastic pollution, thus acting as an indicator of the pollution threat to species within terrestrial ecosystems. There is an urgent need for the standardization of solid waste management at garbage dump sites in remote areas, especially within PAs. Conservation education focusing on MP occurrence, potential sources, and impacts could enhance awareness, thereby influencing changes in behaviors and attitudes toward plastic waste management at the household level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiraporn Teampanpong
- Department of Conservation, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prateep Duengkae
- Department of Forest Biology, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Bose S, Pal D, Ariya PA. On the Role of Starchy Grains in Ice Nucleation Processes. ACS FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 4:1039-1051. [PMID: 38779384 PMCID: PMC11106773 DOI: 10.1021/acsfoodscitech.3c00561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about the role of starchy food on climate change processes like ice nucleation. Here, we investigate the ice nucleation efficiency (INE) of eight different starchy food materials, namely, corn (CO), potato (PO), barley (BA), brown rice (BR), white rice (WR), oats (OA), wheat (WH), and sweet potato (SP), in immersion freezing mode under mixed-phase cloud conditions. Notably, among all these food materials, PO and BA exhibit the highest ice nucleation efficiency with ice nucleation temperatures as high as -4.3 °C (T50 ∼ -7.0 ± 0.5 °C) and -6.5 °C (T50 ∼ -7.2 ± 0.2 °C), respectively. We also explore the effect of environmentally relevant physicochemical conditions on ice nucleation efficiency, including different pH, temperature, UV/O3/NOx exposure, and various cocontaminants. The change in shape, size, surface properties, hydrophobicity, and crystallinity of materials accounted for the altered INE. The increase in shape, size, and hydrophobicity of the sample generally reduces the INE, whereas an increase in crystallinity enhances the INE of the sample under our experimental conditions. The results suggest that environmentally relevant concentrations slightly alter INE, indicating their role as catalysts in environmental matrices. The outcome of studies on the ice nucleation properties of these food-containing aerosols might help in the physicochemical understanding of other biomolecule-induced ice nucleation, which is still an underdeveloped research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Bose
- Department
of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Devendra Pal
- Department
of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, McGill
University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B9, Canada
| | - Parisa A. Ariya
- Department
of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B8, Canada
- Department
of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, McGill
University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B9, Canada
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Magni S, Fossati M, Pedrazzani R, Abbà A, Domini M, Menghini M, Castiglioni S, Bertanza G, Binelli A, Della Torre C. Plastics in biogenic matrices intended for reuse in agriculture and the potential contribution to soil accumulation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123986. [PMID: 38636833 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123986] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The spread of biogenic matrices for agricultural purposes can lead to plastic input into soils, raising a question on possible consequences for the environment. Nonetheless, the current knowledge concerning the presence of plastics in biogenic matrices is very poor. Therefore, the objective of the present study was a quali-quantitative characterization of plastics in different matrices reused in agriculture as manures, digestate, compost and sewage sludges. Plastics were quantified and characterized using a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy coupled with an optical microscope (μFT-IR) in Attenuated Total Reflectance mode. Our study showed the presence of plastics in all the investigated samples, albeit with differences in the content among the matrices. We measured a lower presence in animal matrices (0.06-0.08 plastics/g wet weight w.w.), while 3.14-5.07 plastics/g w.w. were measured in sewage sludges. Fibres were the prevalent shape and plastic debris were mostly in the micrometric size. The most abundant polymers were polyester (PEST), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The worst case was observed in the compost sample, where 986 plastics/g w.w. were detected. The majority of these plastics were compostable and biodegradable, with only 8% consisting of fragments of PEST and PE. Our results highlighted the need to thoroughly evaluate the contribution of reused matrices in agriculture to the plastic accumulation in the soil system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Magni
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Fossati
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCSS, Italy
| | - Roberta Pedrazzani
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Industriale, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Abbà
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile, Architettura, Territorio, Ambiente e di Matematica, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Italy
| | - Marta Domini
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile, Architettura, Territorio, Ambiente e di Matematica, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Italy
| | - Michele Menghini
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica e Industriale, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio Bertanza
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile, Architettura, Territorio, Ambiente e di Matematica, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Binelli
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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Iqbal S, Xu J, Arif MS, Worthy FR, Jones DL, Khan S, Alharbi SA, Filimonenko E, Nadir S, Bu D, Shakoor A, Gui H, Schaefer DA, Kuzyakov Y. Do Added Microplastics, Native Soil Properties, and Prevailing Climatic Conditions Have Consequences for Carbon and Nitrogen Contents in Soil? A Global Data Synthesis of Pot and Greenhouse Studies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:8464-8479. [PMID: 38701232 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10247] [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: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics threaten soil ecosystems, strongly influencing carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) contents. Interactions between microplastic properties and climatic and edaphic factors are poorly understood. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the interactive effects of microplastic properties (type, shape, size, and content), native soil properties (texture, pH, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC)) and climatic factors (precipitation and temperature) on C and N contents in soil. We found that low-density polyethylene reduced total nitrogen (TN) content, whereas biodegradable polylactic acid led to a decrease in soil organic carbon (SOC). Microplastic fragments especially depleted TN, reducing aggregate stability, increasing N-mineralization and leaching, and consequently increasing the soil C/N ratio. Microplastic size affected outcomes; those <200 μm reduced both TN and SOC contents. Mineralization-induced nutrient losses were greatest at microplastic contents between 1 and 2.5% of soil weight. Sandy soils suffered the highest microplastic contamination-induced nutrient depletion. Alkaline soils showed the greatest SOC depletion, suggesting high SOC degradability. In low-DOC soils, microplastic contamination caused 2-fold greater TN depletion than in soils with high DOC. Sites with high precipitation and temperature had greatest decrease in TN and SOC contents. In conclusion, there are complex interactions determining microplastic impacts on soil health. Microplastic contamination always risks soil C and N depletion, but the severity depends on microplastic characteristics, native soil properties, and climatic conditions, with potential exacerbation by greenhouse emission-induced climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
- Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe 654400, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe 654400, Yunnan, China
- CIFOR-ICRAF China Program, World Agroforestry (ICRAF), Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Muhammad Saleem Arif
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Allama Iqbal Road, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Fiona R Worthy
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Fungal Diversity and Green Development, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Davey L Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, U.K
- Soils West, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6105, Australia
| | - Sehroon Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Science and Technology Bannu, Main Campus Bannu-Township, Bannu 28100, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Sulaiman Ali Alharbi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ekaterina Filimonenko
- Center for Isotope Biogeochemistry, University of Tyumen, Volodarskogo Str., 6, Tyumen 625003, Russia
| | - Sadia Nadir
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Science and Technology Bannu, Main Campus Bannu-Township, Bannu 28100, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Dengpan Bu
- Joint Laboratory on Integrated Crop-Tree-Livestock Systems, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), and World Agroforestry Center (ICRAF), Beijing 100193, China
| | - Awais Shakoor
- Teagasc, Environment, Soils and Land Use Department, Johnstown Castle, Co., Wexford Y35 Y521, Ireland
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Heng Gui
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
- Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe 654400, Yunnan, China
| | - Douglas Allen Schaefer
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
- Honghe Centre for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Honghe 654400, Yunnan, China
| | - Yakov Kuzyakov
- Department of Soil Science of Temperate Ecosystems, Department of Agricultural Soil Science, University of Goettingen, Goettingen 37077, Germany
- Peoples Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow 117198, Russia
- Institute of Environmental SciencesKazan Federal University, Kazan 420049, Russia
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Kazan Federal University, 420049 Kazan, Russia
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39
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Peng H, Lin Z, Lu D, Yu B, Li H, Yao J. How do polystyrene microplastics affect the adsorption of copper in soil? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171545. [PMID: 38458454 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) commonly coexist with heavy metals in the soil environment. MPs can influence the activity of heavy metals, and the specific mechanisms need to be further explored. Here, different contents of polystyrene (PS) MPs were added to soil to explore their effects on the adsorption and desorption characteristics of copper (Cu2+) in soil. The adsorption process was mainly chemical adsorption and belonged to a spontaneous, endothermic reaction. The hydrophobicity of MPs slowed down the adsorption and desorption rates. The main adsorption mechanisms included complexation by oxygen-containing functional groups, ion exchange (accounting for 33.97-36.04 % of the total adsorption amounts), and electrostatic interactions. MPs lacked oxygen-containing functional groups and were predominantly engaged in ion exchange and electrostatic interactions. MPs diluted, blocked the soil, and covered the active sites of soil, which reduced adsorption (3.56-16.18 %) and increased desorption (0.90-2.07 %) of Cu2+ in soil samples, thus increasing the activity and mobility of Cu2+. These findings provide new insights into the effects of MPs on the fate and risk of heavy metals in soil. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: The existing literature concerning the effects of microplastics on the adsorption of heavy metals in soil is insufficient. Our investigation unveiled that the main adsorption mechanisms of different soil samples included complexation by oxygen-containing functional groups, ion exchange (accounting for 33.97-36.04 % of the total adsorption amounts), and electrostatic interactions. MPs lacked oxygen-containing functional groups and were predominantly engaged in ion exchange and electrostatic interactions. MPs diluted, blocked the soil, and covered the active sites of soil, which reduced adsorption (3.56-16.18 %) and increased desorption (0.90-2.07 %) of Cu2+ in soil samples, thus increasing the activity and mobility of Cu2+.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjia Peng
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Zuhong Lin
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Denglong Lu
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Bolun Yu
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Haipu Li
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Jingjing Yao
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Water Environment and Agriculture Product Safety, Changsha 410083, PR China.
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An Q, Zhen Z, Zhong N, Qiu D, Xie Y, Yan C. Effects of biodegradable microplastics on arsenic migration and transformation in paddy soils: a comparative analysis with conventional microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:134053. [PMID: 38508111 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134053] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The combined pollution of microplastics (MPs) and arsenic (As) in paddy soils has attracted more attention worldwide. However, there are few comparative studies on the effects of biodegradable and conventional MPs on As migration and transformation. Therefore, conventional (polystyrene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride) and biodegradable (polybutadiene styrene, polylactic acid, polybutylene adipate terephthalate) MPs were selected to explore and demonstrate their influences and mechanism on As migration from paddy soils to overlying water and As speciation transformation through microcosmic experiment with measuring the changes of As chemical distribution, physicochemical indexes and microbial community in paddy soils. The results showed that biodegradable MPs enhanced As migration and transformation more effective than conventional MPs during 60 d. Biodegradable MPs indirectly increased the content of As(Ⅲ) and bioavailable As by changing the microbial community structure and affecting the biogeochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and iron in soils, and promoted the As migration and transformation. PBS showed the strongest promoting effect, transforming to more As(Ⅲ) (11.43%) and bioavailable As (4.28%) than control. This helps to a better understanding of the effects of MPs on As biogeochemical cycle and to clarify the ecological and food safety risks of their combined pollution in soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuying An
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhuo Zhen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Nijing Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Donghua Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yunhe Xie
- Hunan Institute of Agro-Environment and Ecology/Key Laboratory of Agro, Environment in Midstream of Yangtze Plain, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Changzhou Yan
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
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41
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Witt T, Robinson N, Palma AC, Cernusak LA, Pratt S, Redding M, Batstone DJ, Schmidt S, Laycock B. Evaluating novel biodegradable polymer matrix fertilizers for nitrogen-efficient agriculture. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2024; 53:287-299. [PMID: 38453688 DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Enhanced efficiency fertilizers (EEFs) can reduce nitrogen (N) losses in temperate agriculture but are less effective in the tropics. We aimed to design a new EEF and evaluate their performance in simple-to-complex tests with tropical soils and crops. We melt-extruded urea at different loadings into biodegradable polymer matrix composites using biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) or polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) polymers with urea distributed throughout the pellet. These contrast with commercially coated EEF that have a polymer-coated urea core. We hypothesized that matrix fertilizers would have an intermediate N release rate compared to fast release from urea or slow release from coated EEF. Nitrogen release rates in water and sand-soil columns confirmed that the matrix fertilizer formulations had a more progressive N release than a coated EEF. A more complex picture emerged from testing sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] grown to maturity in large soil pots, as the different formulations resulted in minor differences in plant N accumulation and grain production. This confirms the need to consider soil interactions, microbial processes, crop physiology, and phenology for evaluating fertilizer performance. Promisingly, crop δ15N signatures emerged as an integrated measure of efficacy, tracking likely N conversions and losses. The three complementary evaluations combine the advantages of standardized high-throughput screening and more resource-intensive and realistic testing in a plant-soil system. We conclude that melt-blended biodegradable polymer matrix fertilizers show promise as EEF because they can be designed toward more abiotically or more microbially driven N release by selecting biopolymer type and N loading rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Witt
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole Robinson
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ana C Palma
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lucas A Cernusak
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Steven Pratt
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew Redding
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Damien J Batstone
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Susanne Schmidt
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Laycock
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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42
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Müller ND, Kirtane A, Schefer RB, Mitrano DM. eDNA Adsorption onto Microplastics: Impacts of Water Chemistry and Polymer Physiochemical Properties. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:7588-7599. [PMID: 38624040 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10825] [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: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Adsorption of biomacromolecules onto polymer surfaces, including microplastics (MPs), occurs in multiple environmental compartments, forming an ecocorona. Environmental DNA (eDNA), genetic material shed from organisms, can adsorb onto MPs which can potentially either (1) promote long-range transport of antibiotic resistant genes or (2) serve to gain insights into the transport pathways and origins of MPs by analyzing DNA sequences on MPs. However, little is known about the capacity of MPs to adsorb eDNA or the factors that influence sorption, such as polymer and water chemistries. Here we investigated the adsorption of extracellular linear DNA onto a variety of model MP fragments composed of three of the most environmentally prevalent polymers (polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene) in their pristine and photochemically weathered states. Batch adsorption experiments in a variety of water chemistries were complemented with nonlinear modeling to quantify the rate and extent of eDNA sorption. Ionic strength was shown to strongly impact DNA adsorption by reducing or inhibiting electrostatic repulsion. Polyethylene terephthalate exhibited the highest adsorption capacity when normalizing for MP specific surface area, likely due to the presence of ester groups. Kinetics experiments showed fast adsorption (majority adsorbed under 30 min) before eventually reaching equilibrium after 1-2 h. Overall, we demonstrated that DNA quickly binds to MPs, with pseudo-first- and -second-order models describing adsorption kinetics and the Freundlich model describing adsorption isotherms most accurately. These insights into DNA sorption onto MPs show that there is potential for MPs to act as vectors for genetic material of interest, especially considering that particle-bound DNA typically persists longer in the environment than dissolved DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas D Müller
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anish Kirtane
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roman B Schefer
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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Hamdani SS, Elkholy HM, Alford A, Jackson K, Naveed M, Wyman I, Wang Y, Li K, Haider SW, Rabnawaz M. Synthesis of Water-Dispersible Poly(dimethylsiloxane) and Its Potential Application in the Paper Coating Industry as an Alternative for PFAS-Coated Paper and Single-Use Plastics. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1006. [PMID: 38611264 PMCID: PMC11014279 DOI: 10.3390/polym16071006] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene-, polyvinylidene chloride-, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance-coated paper generate microplastics or fluorochemicals in the environment. Here, we report an approach for the development of oil-resistant papers using an environmentally friendly, fluorine-free, water-dispersible poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) coating on kraft paper. Carboxylic-functionalized PDMS (PDMS-COOH) was synthesized and subsequently neutralized with ammonium bicarbonate to obtain a waterborne emulsion, which was then coated onto kraft paper. The water resistance of the coated paper was determined via Cobb60 measurements. The Cobb60 value was reduced to 2.70 ± 0.14 g/m2 as compared to 87.6 ± 5.1 g/m2 for uncoated paper, suggesting a remarkable improvement in water resistance. Similarly, oil resistance was found to be 12/12 on the kit test scale versus 0/12 for uncoated paper. In addition, the coated paper retained 70-90% of its inherent mechanical properties, and more importantly, the coated paper was recycled via pulp recovery using a standard protocol with a 91.1% yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Shamila Hamdani
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Hazem M. Elkholy
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Alexandra Alford
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Kang Jackson
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Ian Wyman
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, Western Michigan University, 1903 W, Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Kecheng Li
- Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, Western Michigan University, 1903 W, Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Syed W. Haider
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Muhammad Rabnawaz
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
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Zhang Y, Hunter JR, Ullah A, Shao Q, Shi J. Lignin derived hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents for the extraction of nanoplastics from water. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133695. [PMID: 38341895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
As a growing concern in aqueous systems, micro- and nano-plastics, especially nanoplastics (NPs), have been widely detected in the environment and organisms, posing a potential threat to ecosystems and human health. Hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs) have emerged as environmentally friendly solvents that have shown promise for extracting pollutants from water, either for detection or removal purposes. Herein, we investigated the extraction of polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) NPs from aqueous solution using lignin based HDESs as sustainable solvents. Rapid extraction of both PET and PS NPs was observed with the high extraction efficiency achieved (> 95%). The extraction capacities for PET and PS could reach up to 525.877 mg/mL and 183.520 mg/mL, respectively, by the Thymol-2,6-dimethoxyphenol 1:2 HDES. Moreover, the extraction mechanism was studied using various techniques including Fourier-transform infrared analysis, contact angle measurements, molecular dynamics simulation, kinetics, and isotherm studies. This work lays a foundational basis for the future development of innovative HDES-based technologies in the detection and remediation of NPs as part of the grand challenge of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Zhang
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA.
| | - Jameson R Hunter
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Ahamed Ullah
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Jian Shi
- Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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Redondo-Hasselerharm PE, Rico A, Huerta Lwanga E, van Gestel CAM, Koelmans AA. Source-specific probabilistic risk assessment of microplastics in soils applying quality criteria and data alignment methods. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133732. [PMID: 38350316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
The risk characterization of microplastics (MP) in soil is challenging due to the non-alignment of existing exposure and effect data. Therefore, we applied data alignment methods to assess the risks of MP in soils subject to different sources of MP pollution. Our findings reveal variations in MP characteristics among sources, emphasizing the need for source-specific alignments. To assess the reliability of the data, we applied Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) screening tools. Risk assessment was carried out probabilistically, considering uncertainties in data alignments and effect thresholds. The Hazardous Concentrations for 5% (HC5) of the species were significantly higher compared to earlier studies and ranged between 4.0 × 107 and 2.3 × 108 particles (1-5000 µm)/kg of dry soil for different MP sources and ecologically relevant metrics. The highest risk was calculated for soils with MP entering via diffuse and unspecified local sources, i.e., "background pollution". However, the source with the highest proportion of high-risk values was sewage, followed by background pollution and mulching. Notably, locations exceeding the risk threshold obtained low scores in the QA/QC assessment. No risks were observed for soils with compost. To improve future risk assessments, we advise to primarily test environmentally relevant MP mixtures and adhere to strict quality criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula E Redondo-Hasselerharm
- IMDEA Water Institute, Science and Technology Campus of the University of Alcalá, Avenida Punto Com 2, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Andreu Rico
- IMDEA Water Institute, Science and Technology Campus of the University of Alcalá, Avenida Punto Com 2, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, C/ Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Esperanza Huerta Lwanga
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081H Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Albert A Koelmans
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Wei J, Abdurexit A, Jamal R, Abdiryim T, You J, Li Z, Shang J, Cheng Q. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Recycled Polypropylene/Polyolefin Elastomer Composites with High Mechanical Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:972. [PMID: 38611230 PMCID: PMC11013364 DOI: 10.3390/polym16070972] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of waste plastics has gradually become a hot topic in the current scientific community. In response to the needs for high-impact performance R-PP-based composites, carbon fiber (CF)-reinforced polyolefin elastomer (POE)/recycled polypropylene (R-PP) composite (CF/POE/R-PP) was prepared by the mechanical blending method, and its mechanical and thermal properties were systematically studied. It was found that the CF could effectively improve the bending and notch impact strength as well as enhance the thermal stability of POE/R-PP. Furthermore, a stable and dispersed composite interface formed by the combination of maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) with the surface of CF and the fusion alkyl chains in R-PP and POE further enhanced the CF's reinforcing effect. As a result, the addition of 9 wt.% CF successfully improved the heat resistance of the composite material, and the residual carbon content increased by 97.84% after sintering. The composite toughening of POE and CF effectively improved the impact strength of the composite material, with a maximum increase of over 1000%. This study ultimately resulted in a high-impact-resistant composite material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, College of Chemistry, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (J.W.); (J.Y.); (J.S.); (Q.C.)
| | - Abdukeyum Abdurexit
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Fine Chemicals, Ministry of Education & Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, College of Chemical Engineering Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (A.A.); (R.J.); (Z.L.)
| | - Ruxangul Jamal
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Fine Chemicals, Ministry of Education & Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, College of Chemical Engineering Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (A.A.); (R.J.); (Z.L.)
| | - Tursun Abdiryim
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, College of Chemistry, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (J.W.); (J.Y.); (J.S.); (Q.C.)
| | - Jiangan You
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, College of Chemistry, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (J.W.); (J.Y.); (J.S.); (Q.C.)
| | - Zhiwei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Fine Chemicals, Ministry of Education & Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, College of Chemical Engineering Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (A.A.); (R.J.); (Z.L.)
| | - Jin Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, College of Chemistry, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (J.W.); (J.Y.); (J.S.); (Q.C.)
| | - Qian Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources, College of Chemistry, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China; (J.W.); (J.Y.); (J.S.); (Q.C.)
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Xiang Y, Rillig MC, Peñuelas J, Sardans J, Liu Y, Yao B, Li Y. Global Responses of Soil Carbon Dynamics to Microplastic Exposure: A Data Synthesis of Laboratory Studies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:5821-5831. [PMID: 38416534 PMCID: PMC10993418 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06177] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) contamination presents a significant global environmental challenge, with its potential to influence soil carbon (C) dynamics being a crucial aspect for understanding soil C changes and global C cycling. This meta-analysis synthesizes data from 110 peer-reviewed publications to elucidate the directional, magnitude, and driving effects of MPs exposure on soil C dynamics globally. We evaluated the impacts of MPs characteristics (including type, biodegradability, size, and concentration), soil properties (initial pH and soil organic C [SOC]), and experimental conditions (such as duration and plant presence) on various soil C components. Key findings included the significant promotion of SOC, dissolved organic C, microbial biomass C, and root biomass following MPs addition to soils, while the net photosynthetic rate was reduced. No significant effects were observed on soil respiration and shoot biomass. The study highlights that the MPs concentration, along with other MPs properties and soil attributes, critically influences soil C responses. Our results demonstrate that both the nature of MPs and the soil environment interact to shape the effects on soil C cycling, providing comprehensive insights and guiding strategies for mitigating the environmental impact of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhou Xiang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic State Monitoring of Watershed, School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Matthias C Rillig
- Institut für Biologie, Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin D-14195, Germany
| | - Josep Peñuelas
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit CREAF-CSIC-UAB, Bellaterra, Catalonia 08193, Spain
- CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Jordi Sardans
- CSIC Global Ecology Unit CREAF-CSIC-UAB, Bellaterra, Catalonia 08193, Spain
- CREAF - Ecological and Forestry Applications Research Centre, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Biological Sciences, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
| | - Bin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Ecolog Conservation and Restoration, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems in Gansu Qingyang, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
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48
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Wang B, Iglesias-Ledon L, Bishop M, Chadha A, Rudolph SE, Longo BN, Cairns DM, Chen Y, Kaplan DL. Impact of Micro- and Nano-Plastics on Human Intestinal Organoid-Derived Epithelium. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e1027. [PMID: 38588063 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.1027] [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] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The development of patient-derived intestinal organoids represents an invaluable model for simulating the native human intestinal epithelium. These stem cell-rich cultures outperform commonly used cell lines like Caco-2 and HT29-MTX in reflecting the cellular diversity of the native intestinal epithelium after differentiation. In our recent study examining the effects of polystyrene (PS), microplastics (MPs), and nanoplastics (NPs), widespread pollutants in our environment and food chain, on the human intestinal epithelium, these organoids have been instrumental in elucidating the absorption mechanisms and potential biological impacts of plastic particles. Building on previously established protocols in human intestinal organoid culture, we herein detail a streamlined protocol for the cultivation, differentiation, and generation of organoid-derived monolayers. This protocol is tailored to generate monolayers incorporating microfold cells (M cells), key for intestinal particle uptake but often absent in current in vitro models. We provide validated protocols for the characterization of MPs/NPs via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for detailed imaging and their introduction to intestinal epithelial monolayer cells via confocal immunostaining. Additionally, protocols to test the impacts of MP/NP exposure on the functions of the intestinal barrier using transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements and assessing inflammatory responses using cytokine profiling are detailed. Overall, our protocols enable the generation of human intestinal organoid monolayers, complete with the option of including or excluding M cells, offering crucial techniques for observing particle uptake and identifying inflammatory responses in intestinal epithelial cells to advance our knowledge of the potential effects of plastic pollution on human gut health. These approaches are also amendable to the study of other gut-related chemical and biological exposures and physiological responses due to the robust nature of the systems. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Human intestinal organoid culture and generation of monolayers with and without M cells Support Protocol 1: Culture of L-WRN and production of WRN-conditioned medium Support Protocol 2: Neuronal cell culture and integration into intestinal epithelium Support Protocol 3: Immune cell culture and integration into intestinal epithelium Basic Protocol 2: Scanning electron microscopy: sample preparation and imaging Basic Protocol 3: Immunostaining and confocal imaging of MP/NP uptake in organoid-derived monolayers Basic Protocol 4: Assessment of intestinal barrier function via TEER measurements Basic Protocol 5: Cytokine profiling using ELISA post-MP/NP exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | | | - Matthew Bishop
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Anushka Chadha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Sara E Rudolph
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Brooke N Longo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Dana M Cairns
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts
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Arif Y, Mir AR, Zieliński P, Hayat S, Bajguz A. Microplastics and nanoplastics: Source, behavior, remediation, and multi-level environmental impact. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 356:120618. [PMID: 38508005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120618] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastics introduced into the natural environment persist, degrade, and fragment into smaller particles due to various environmental factors. Microplastics (MPs) (ranging from 1 μm to 5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs) (less than 1 μm) have emerged as pollutants posing a significant threat to all life forms on Earth. Easily ingested by living organisms, they lead to ongoing bioaccumulation and biomagnification. This review summarizes existing studies on the sources of MPs and NPs in various environments, highlighting their widespread presence in air, water, and soil. It primarily focuses on the sources, fate, degradation, fragmentation, transport, and ecotoxicity of MPs and NPs. The aim is to elucidate their harmful effects on marine organisms, soil biota, plants, mammals, and humans, thereby enhancing the understanding of the complex impacts of plastic particles on the environment. Additionally, this review highlights remediation technologies and global legislative and institutional measures for managing waste associated with MPs and NPs. It also shows that effectively combating plastic pollution requires the synergization of diverse management, monitoring strategies, and regulatory measures into a comprehensive policy framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamshi Arif
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Anayat Rasool Mir
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Piotr Zieliński
- Department of Water Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1J, 15-245, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Shamsul Hayat
- Department of Botany, Plant Physiology Section, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Andrzej Bajguz
- Department of Biology and Plant Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Ciolkowskiego 1J, 15-245, Bialystok, Poland.
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Palazot M, Soccalingame L, Froger C, Jolivet C, Bispo A, Kedzierski M, Bruzaud S. First national reference of microplastic contamination of French soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170564. [PMID: 38311079 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The recent emergence of studies on plastic contamination of terrestrial environments has revealed the presence of microplastics (MP) in a variety of soil types, from the most densely populated areas to the most remote ones. However, the concentrations and chemical natures of MP in soils vary between studies, and only a few ones have focused on this issue in France. The MICROSOF project aimed to establish the first national references for French soil contamination by microplastics. 33 soil samples randomly chosen on the French soil quality-monitoring network were analyzed. The study collected data on the abundance of microplastics in the [315-5000] μm range, their chemical nature and size, as well as mass abundance estimates and other relevant information. Results demonstrated that 76 % of the soil samples contained microplastics, in concentrations ranging from <6.7 to 80 MP.kg-1 (dry soil). Most samples from croplands, grasslands and vineyards and orchards were contaminated, whereas only one sample from forest contained MP, suggesting an increased risk of microplastic contamination in soils exposed to agricultural practices. The MP abundances are not statistically different from similar studies, indicating an intermediate level of contamination in French soils. Despite intervention reports and surveys, the sources remain unclear at this stage. For the first time, an overview of the state of soil contamination in France, as well as the potential risks is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maialen Palazot
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | - Lata Soccalingame
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | | | | | | | - Mikaël Kedzierski
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France.
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
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