1
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Xiang T, Sun Y, Ding D, Yao W, Yu Z, Xie Y. Microscopic Raman-based rapid detection of submicron/nano polypropylene plastics in tea and tea beverages. Food Chem 2024; 454:139657. [PMID: 38810455 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139657] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Polypropylene (PP) is suitable for a broad range of applications and represents the most extensively utilized plastic in food packaging. Micro- and nano-PP plastics are prevalent categories of microplastics (MPs). However, the majority of MPs particles currently utilized in laboratory studies are man-made polystyrene (PS) spheres, and there has been limited research on micrometer- and nanoscale PP plastic particles. This study aims to employ a top-down approach in crafting micro/nanoparticle (M/NPs) models of PP particles, ensuring their enhanced relevance to real-world environments. Micro/nano PP particles, featuring a negatively charged particle size ranging from 203 to 2101 nm, were synthesized through variations in solution concentration and volume. Simultaneously, the devised MPs model was employed to develop a Raman-based qualitative and quantitative detection method for micro/nano PP particles, considering diverse sizes and concentrations. This method integrates Raman spectroscopy and microscopy to measure PP particles with varying sizes, utilizing the coffee ring effect. The Limit of detection (LOD) for 203 nm PP reached 31.25 μg/mL, while those for 382-2101 nm PP were approximately 3.9 μg/mL. The method underwent quantitative analysis by introducing 203 nm PP nanospheres into real food media (i.e., tea beverages, tea leaves), revealing a minimum LOD of approximately 31.25 μg/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongyue Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yingying Sun
- Research Institute, Centre Testing International Group Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Dazhi Ding
- School of Microelectronics (School of Integrated Circuits), Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Weirong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhilong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yunfei Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
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2
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Bai Y, Chen Y, Song Y, Bai R, He W, Zhao M, Zhang J, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Dong S, Bai W. Screening of optimal cleaning methods to reduce microplastic residues on strawberry surfaces: Characterization of microplastics in strawberry wash water. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135310. [PMID: 39067298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135310] [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: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are widespread in facility strawberry greenhouses and can be deposited on the surface of strawberries through air currents. Investigating effective cleaning methods represents a viable strategy to reduce human ingestion of MPs. Therefore, different cleaning methods were compared: ultrasonic cleaning for 30 min, deionized water rinsing once, deionized water immersion for 30 min, and fruit immersion in washing salt for 30 min. The MPs in strawberry washing water were analyzed and compared using laser direct infrared imaging to investigate their characteristics and the optimal reduction of MPs on the surface of strawberries. The quality of the cleaning results was in the following order: water immersion > washing salt immersion > water rinsing > ultrasound. Water immersion was 1.3-2 times more effective in removing microplastics than other treatments. Furthermore, 21 polymer types were detected in the samples. Most MPs were less than 50 µm in size. The main polymers in this size range were polyamide, chlorinated polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, and they mainly existed as fragments, fibers, and beads. This study provides a valuable reference for reducing human intake of microplastics through fresh fruits and vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeran Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yanhua Chen
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Yang Song
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Runhao Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wenqing He
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Jiajia Zhang
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Changping District Farmland Station, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Yukun Zhang
- Changping District Farmland Station, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Shuqi Dong
- Institute of Plant Nutrition, Resources and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China.
| | - Wenbo Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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3
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Das S, M R S, Jeeva JB, Mukherjee A. Release kinetic study of microplastics from N95 face masks and consequent effects on freshwater alga Scenedesmus obliquus. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142851. [PMID: 39019171 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142851] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
The uncontrolled disposal of N95 face masks, widely used during the recent COVID-19 pandemic can release significant amounts of microplastics and other additives into aquatic bodies. This study aimed to: (i) to quantify and analyze the released microplastics and heavy metals from N95 face masks weathered for various time periods (24, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 144 h) and (ii) to assess the cytotoxicity potential of the leachates on a model organism, freshwater alga Scenedesmus obliquus. The mask leachates contained microplastics, polypropylene in different shapes and sizes, and heavy metals like Cu, Cd, and Zn. The leachates significantly reduced cell viability and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, antioxidant enzyme activity, and membrane damage. The effects were also accompanied by a significant drop in the photosynthetic yield. All of the examined parameters indicated a dose-response relationship, with longer leaching periods resulting in higher microplastic concentrations. Mask leachates severely damaged the structural integrity of the algal cells, as seen in scanning electron microscopy images. The findings of our study confirm that the releases from disposable N95 face masks pose a severe threat to freshwater microalgae, and the cascading effects would harm the aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soupam Das
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Sumaiya M R
- Sensor and Biomedical Technology, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - J B Jeeva
- Sensor and Biomedical Technology, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Amitava Mukherjee
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India.
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4
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Cai B, De Jesus Andino F, McGrath JL, Romanick SS, Robert J. Ingestion of polyethylene terephthalate microplastic water contaminants by Xenopus laevis tadpoles negatively affects their resistance to ranavirus infection and antiviral immunity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124340. [PMID: 38851377 PMCID: PMC11321924 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124340] [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: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Small plastic debris (0.1 μm-5 mm) or microplastics (MPs) have become major pollutants of aquatic ecosystems worldwide and studies suggest that MPs exposure can pose serious threats to human and wildlife health. However, to date the potential biological impacts of MPs accumulating in low amount in tissues during early life remains unclear. Here, for a more realistic assessment, we have used environmentally representative, mildly weathered, polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET MPs), cryomilled (1-100 μm) and fluorescently labelled. We leveraged the amphibian Xenopus laevis tadpoles as an animal model to define the biodistribution of PET MPs and determine whether exposure to PET MPs induce perturbations of antiviral immunity. Exposure to PET MPs for 1-14 days resulted in detectable PET MPs biodistribution in intestine, gills, liver, and kidney as determined by fluorescence microscopy on whole mount tissues. PET MPs accumulation rate in tissues was further evaluated via a novel in situ enzymatic digestion and subsequent filtration using silicon nanomembranes, which shows that PET MPs rapidly accumulate in tadpole intestine, liver and kidneys and persist over a week. Longer exposure (1 month) of tadpoles to relatively low concentration of PET MPs (25 μg/ml) significantly increased susceptibility to viral infection and altered innate antiviral immunity without inducing overt inflammation. This study provides evidence that exposure to MPs negatively impact immune defenses of aquatic vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binghong Cai
- University of Rochester Department of Microbiology and Immunology, USA; University of Rochester Biomedical Engineering, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jacques Robert
- University of Rochester Department of Microbiology and Immunology, USA; University of Rochester Department Environmental Medicine, USA.
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5
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Lomonaco T, Persiani E, Biagini D, Gisone I, Ceccherini E, Cecchettini A, Corti A, Ghimenti S, Francesco FD, Castelvetro V, Vozzi F. Type-specific inflammatory responses of vascular cells activated by interaction with virgin and aged microplastics. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 282:116695. [PMID: 38981390 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as a major environmental problem due to their ubiquitous presence in ecosystems and bioaccumulation in food chains. Not only humans are continuously exposed to these pollutants through ingestion and inhalation, but recent findings suggest they may trigger vascular inflammation and potentially worsen the clinical conditions of cardiovascular patients. Here we combine headspace analysis by needle trap microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-NTME-GC-MS) and biological assays to evaluate the effects of polystyrene, high- and low-density polyethylene MPs on phenotype, metabolic activity, and pro-inflammatory status of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs) the most prominent cells in vascular walls. Virgin and artificially aged MPs (4 weeks at 40 °C and 750 W/m2 simulated solar irradiation) were comparatively tested at 1 mg/mL to simulate a realistic exposure scenario. Our results clearly show the activation of oxidative stress and inflammatory processes when VSMCs were cultured with aged polymers, with significant overexpression of IL-6 and TNF-α. In addition, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including pentane, acrolein, propanal, and hexanal as the main components, were released by VSMCs into the headspace. Type-specific VOC response profiles were induced on vascular cells from different MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Lomonaco
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - E Persiani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - D Biagini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - I Gisone
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - E Ceccherini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Cecchettini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Corti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Ghimenti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Di Francesco
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - V Castelvetro
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Vozzi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC-CNR), National Research Council, Pisa, Italy.
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6
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Basaran B, Aytan Ü, Şentürk Y. First occurrence and risk assessment of microplastics in enteral nutrition formulas. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 191:114879. [PMID: 39047973 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics were evaluated in enteral nutrition formulas, for the first time. A total of 30 samples belonging to 9 brands were analysed. Physical and chemical characteristics of microplastics were identified by stereomicroscopy and micro-raman spectroscopy, respectively. The mean number of microplastics was 45 ± 63 MP/L. Two different shapes of microplastics were detected with fibres (62%) being the most common microplastics followed by fragments (38%). The most common color of microplastics was black (37%) followed by blue (26%), orange (15%), green (7%), red (7%), grey (4%) and multicolor (4%). The length of microplastics ranged from 10 to 2086 μm with an average of 548 ± 526 μm. Estimated mean daily microplastic intake for four different scenarios varied between 24 to 61 and 30 to 76 MPs/day for women and men, respectively. The mean polymer hazard index and microplastic load index levels were calculated as 380 and 1.30, respectively. The results of this study showed that microplastics are prevalent in enteral nutrition products. The presence of polymers with high hazard risk scores in enteral nutrition formulas may pose a risk to the health of patients with special nutritional needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burhan Basaran
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Turkey.
| | - Ülgen Aytan
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize 53100, Turkey
| | - Yasemen Şentürk
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize 53100, Turkey
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7
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El Basset W, Cornu R, Zaiter T, Jacquin L, Pellequer Y, Moulari B, Diab-Assaf M, Brunel F, Monteil V, Béduneau A. Impact of polyethylene nanoplastics on human intestinal cells. Nanotoxicology 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39207115 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2024.2393643] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most widely used plastics in the world. Its degradation leads to the production of small particles including microplastics and nanoplastics (NPs). Plastic particles' presence poses a health risk. The aim of this work was to investigate the toxicity of two model surfactant-free PE NPs prepared by polymerization of ethylene from cationic and anionic water-soluble initiators on human cell lines Caco-2 and HT29-MTX. After physicochemical characterization, their acute and subacute toxicity profile, including cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity, was evaluated on both cell lines. Results showed a size increase of PE NPs in culture medium. Zeta potential values close to -10 mV were no longer dependent on the initiator charge after adsorption of serum components in culture medium. However, the cellular toxicity of the cationic and anionic PE NPs was very different. A time-and-concentration dependent cytotoxic, oxidative, and genotoxic effects on Caco-2 cells were only observed for PE NPs prepared with cationic initiators. No toxicity was observed on HT29-MTX, likely due to the protective mucus layer. Genotoxicity correlated with oxidative stress of some PE NPs on Caco-2 cells was observed from a concentration of 0.1 mg.mL-1 after 48-h exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wassim El Basset
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
| | - Raphaël Cornu
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
| | - Taghrid Zaiter
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
| | - Léa Jacquin
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CPE Lyon, CNRS, CP2M UMR 5128, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Yann Pellequer
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
| | - Brice Moulari
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
| | - Mona Diab-Assaf
- EDST, Pharmacology and Cancerology Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fabrice Brunel
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CPE Lyon, CNRS, CP2M UMR 5128, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Vincent Monteil
- Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CPE Lyon, CNRS, CP2M UMR 5128, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Arnaud Béduneau
- Université de Franche-Comté, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, Besançon, France
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8
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Xiao Y, Qin Y, Jiang X, Gao P. Effects of polypropylene microplastics on digestion performance, microbial community, and antibiotic resistance during microbial anaerobic digestion. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 411:131358. [PMID: 39191296 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
As an emerging pollutant, microplastics (MPs) have attracted increasing attention worldwide. The effects of polypropylene (PP) MPs on digestion performance, behaviors of dominant microbial communities, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements in microbial anaerobic digesters were investigated. The results showed that the addition of PP-MPs to digesters led to an increase in methane production of 10.8% when 300 particles/g TSS of PP-MPs was introduced compared with that in digester not treated with PP-MPs. This increase was attributed to the enrichment of acetogens such as Syntrophobacter (42.0%), Syntrophorhabdus (27.0%), and Syntrophomonas (10.6%), and methanogens including Methanobacterium and Methanosaeta. tetX was highly enriched due to PP-MP exposure, whereas parC exhibited the greatest increase (35.5% - 222.7%). Horizontal gene transfer via ISCR1 and intI1 genes might play an important role in the spread of ARGs. Overall, these findings provide comprehensive insight into the ecological dynamics of PP-MPs during microbial anaerobic digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xiao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yan Qin
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaoying Jiang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Pin Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; National & Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Municipal Sewage Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agroenvironmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.
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9
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Galea J, Agius Anastasi A, Briffa SM. Design of a Weathering Chamber for UV Aging of Microplastics in the Mediterranean Region. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:35627-35633. [PMID: 39184482 PMCID: PMC11339838 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are an ever-growing concern in the environment. Their degradation may lead to greater absorption of toxic pollutants, which may ultimately pose a threat to human health. In the pursuit of understanding microplastics' fate, behavior, and toxicity, there is a vital need to understand their aging and weathering. For this, multiple weathering setup designs were put forward. However, standardization of a weathering setup presents a significant challenge to the field due to apparatus costs, wide range of experimental parameters, or the lack of detailed reporting. This work seeks to make much-needed data gathering more accessible by constructing a low-cost weathering chamber that simulates Mediterranean shore conditions. The weathering chamber incorporates UV irradiation, mechanical abrasion, and elevated temperatures. After extensive preliminary testing, the chamber was able to achieve the desired outcome along with UV-A irradiance values, which were similar to those in the Mediterranean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Galea
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
| | - Anthea Agius Anastasi
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
| | - Sophie M. Briffa
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
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10
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Liu S, Chen Q, Ding H, Song Y, Pan Q, Deng H, Zeng EY. Differences of microplastics and nanoplastics in urban waters: Environmental behaviors, hazards, and removal. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 260:121895. [PMID: 38875856 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121895] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous in the aquatic environment and have caused widespread concerns globally due to their potential hazards to humans. Especially, NPs have smaller sizes and higher penetrability, and therefore can penetrate the human barrier more easily and may pose potentially higher risks than MPs. Currently, most reviews have overlooked the differences between MPs and NPs and conflated them in the discussions. This review compared the differences in physicochemical properties and environmental behaviors of MPs and NPs. Commonly used techniques for removing MPs and NPs currently employed by wastewater treatment plants and drinking water treatment plants were summarized, and their weaknesses were analyzed. We further comprehensively reviewed the latest technological advances (e.g., emerging coagulants, new filters, novel membrane materials, photocatalysis, Fenton, ozone, and persulfate oxidation) for the separation and degradation of MPs and NPs. Microplastics are more easily removed than NPs through separation processes, while NPs are more easily degraded than MPs through advanced oxidation processes. The operational parameters, efficiency, and potential governing mechanisms of various technologies as well as their advantages and disadvantages were also analyzed in detail. Appropriate technology should be selected based on environmental conditions and plastic size and type. Finally, current challenges and prospects in the detection, toxicity assessment, and removal of MPs and NPs were proposed. This review intends to clarify the differences between MPs and NPs and provide guidance for removing MPs and NPs from urban water systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuan Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qiqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Haojie Ding
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 123456, China
| | - Yunqian Song
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (ACWEB, formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Qixin Pan
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Huiping Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Eddy Y Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters (Ministry of Education), School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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11
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Bai CL, Wang D, Luan YL, Huang SN, Liu LY, Guo Y. A review on micro- and nanoplastics in humans: Implication for their translocation of barriers and potential health effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142424. [PMID: 38795915 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
As emerging contaminants, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) can absorb and leach various toxic chemicals and ultimately endanger the health of the ecological environment and humans. With extensive research on MNPs, knowledge about MNPs in humans, especially their translocation of barriers and potential health effects, is of utmost importance. In this review, we collected literature published from 2000 to 2023, focusing on MNPs on their occurrence in humans, penetrating characteristics in the placental, blood-brain, and blood-testis barriers, and exposure effects on mammalian health. The characteristics and distributions of MNPs in human samples were analyzed, and the results demonstrated that MNPs were ubiquitous in most human samples, except for kidneys and cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, the phenomenon of MNPs crossing barriers and their underlying mechanisms were discussed. We also summarized the potential factors that may affect the barrier crossing and health effects of MNPs, including characteristics of MNPs, exposure doses, administration routes, exposure durations, co-exposure to other pollutants, and genetic predisposition. Exposure to MNPs may cause cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and developmental and reproductive toxicity in mammals. People are encouraged to reduce their exposure to MNPs to prevent these adverse health effects. Finally, we discussed the shortcomings of current research on MNPs in humans, providing a valuable reference for understanding and evaluating the potential health risks from MNP exposure in mammals, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Lan Bai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Yu-Ling Luan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Si-Nan Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Liang-Ying Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ying Guo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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12
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Safdar A, Ismail F, Safdar M, Imran M. Eco-friendly approaches for mitigating plastic pollution: advancements and implications for a greener future. Biodegradation 2024; 35:493-518. [PMID: 38310578 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10062-1] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global problem since the extensive use of plastic in industries such as packaging, electronics, manufacturing and construction, healthcare, transportation, and others. This has resulted in an environmental burden that is continually growing, which has inspired many scientists as well as environmentalists to come up with creative solutions to deal with this problem. Numerous studies have been reviewed to determine practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions to regulate plastic waste by leveraging microbes' innate abilities to naturally decompose polymers. Enzymatic breakdown of plastics has been proposed to serve this goal since the discovery of enzymes from microbial sources that truly interact with plastic in its naturalistic environment and because it is a much faster and more effective method than others. The scope of diverse microbes and associated enzymes in polymer breakdown is highlighted in the current review. The use of co-cultures or microbial consortium-based techniques for the improved breakdown of plastic products and the generation of high-value end products that may be utilized as prototypes of bioenergy sources is highlighted. The review also offers a thorough overview of the developments in the microbiological and enzymatic biological degradation of plastics, as well as several elements that impact this process for the survival of our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Safdar
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
| | - Maryem Safdar
- University College of Conventional Medicine, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Institute of Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 5180600, Guangdong Province, China.
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13
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Sampsonidis I, Michailidou K, Spritinoudi K, Dimitriadi A, Ainali NM, Bobori DC, Lambropoulou DA, Kyzas GZ, Bikiaris DN, Kalogiannis S. Genotoxicity and metabolic changes induced via ingestion of virgin and UV-aged polyethylene microplastics by the freshwater fish Perca fluviatilis. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142619. [PMID: 38880257 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142619] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to compare and assess the toxicity induced by aged (irradiated with ultraviolet radiation for 120 days) polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) in comparison to virgin (non-irradiated) ones, after feeding the freshwater fish Perca fluviatilis. To this end, MPs mediated genotoxicity was assessed by the investigation of micronucleus nuclear abnormalities frequency in fish blood, and the degree of DNA damage in the liver and muscle tissues, while metabolic alterations were also recorded in both tissues. Results showed that both virgin and aged PE-MPs induced signaling pathways leading to DNA damage and nuclear abnormalities, as well as metabolites changes in all tissues studied. Metabolic changes revealed that the metabolism of nucleic acids, energy, amino acids, and neurotransmitters was more disrupted in the liver and by aged PE-MPs compared to muscles. Fish fed with aged PE-MPs exhibited greater DNA damage, while blood cells of fish fed with virgin PE-MPs seemed to be more vulnerable to nuclear abnormalities in relation to those fed with aged PE-MPs. Moreover, aged PE-MPs induced more acute overall effects on the metabolic profiles of fish tissues, and initiated stronger stress responses, inflammation, and cellular damages in fish tissues in relation to virgin ones. Characterization of both virgin and aged MPs revealed that the latter exhibited lower crystallinity and melting point, more irregular shapes and higher moiety of oxygen and carbonyl groups, which could be attributed for their observed higher toxicity. The research outcomes provide significant insights for advancing toxicological investigations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Sampsonidis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, GR-57400, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kostantina Michailidou
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kalliopi Spritinoudi
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitra C Bobori
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, GR-570 01, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Hephaestus Laboratory, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Kavala, GR-654 04, Greece
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Stavros Kalogiannis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, GR-57400, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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14
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Cai R, Baimanov D, Yuan H, Xie H, Yu S, Zhang Z, Yang J, Zhao F, You Y, Guan Y, Zheng P, Xu M, Qi M, Zhang Z, Zhong S, Li YF, Wang L. Protein Corona-Directed Cellular Recognition and Uptake of Polyethylene Nanoplastics by Macrophages. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39088650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c05215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
The widespread use of plastic products in daily life has raised concerns about the health hazards associated with nanoplastics (NPs). When exposed, NPs are likely to infiltrate the bloodstream, interact with plasma proteins, and trigger macrophage recognition and clearance. In this study, we focused on establishing a correlation between the unique protein coronal signatures of high-density (HDPE) and low-density (LDPE) polyethylene (PE) NPs with their ultimate impact on macrophage recognition and cytotoxicity. We observed that low-density and high-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR and SR-B1), facilitated by apolipoproteins, played an essential role in PE-NP recognition. Consequently, PE-NPs activated the caspase-3/GSDME pathway and ultimately led to pyroptosis. Advanced imaging techniques, including label-free scattered light confocal imaging and cryo-soft X-ray transmission microscopy with 3D-tomographic reconstruction (nano-CT), provided powerful insights into visualizing NPs-cell interactions. These findings underscore the potential risks of NPs to macrophages and introduce analytical methods for studying the behavior of NPs in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Cai
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, PR China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Didar Baimanov
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Hao Yuan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, PR China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Hongxin Xie
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, PR China
| | - Shengtao Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Zehao Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Jiacheng Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Feng Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yue You
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yong Guan
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230029, PR China
| | - Pingping Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Ming Xu
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, PR China
| | - Mengying Qi
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, PR China
| | - Zhiyong Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Shengliang Zhong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, PR China
| | - Yu-Feng Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Liming Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
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15
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Rahman L, Williams A, Wu D, Halappanavar S. Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics Generated from Disposable Water Bottles Induce Interferon Signaling Pathways in Mouse Lung Epithelial Cells. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:1287. [PMID: 39120391 PMCID: PMC11314056 DOI: 10.3390/nano14151287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are present in ambient air in a respirable size fraction; however, their potential impact on human health via inhalation routes is not well documented. In the present study, methods for a lab-scale generation of MPs from regularly used and littered plastic articles were optimized. The toxicity of 11 different types of MPs, both commercially purchased and in-lab prepared MPs, was investigated in lung epithelial cells using cell viability, immune and inflammatory response, and genotoxicity endpoints. The underlying mechanisms were identified by microarray analysis. Although laborious, the laboratory-scale methods generated a sufficient quantity of well characterized MPs for toxicity testing. Of the 11 MPs tested, the small sized polyethylene terephthalate (PETE) MPs prepared from disposable water bottles induced the maximum toxicity. Specifically, the smaller size PETE MPs induced a robust activation of the interferon signaling pathway, implying that PETE MPs are perceived by cells by similar mechanisms as those employed to recognize pathogens. The PETE MPs of heterogenous size and shapes induced cell injury, triggering cell death, inflammatory cascade, and DNA damage, hallmark in vitro events indicative of potential in vivo tissue injury. The study establishes toxicity of specific types of plastic materials in micron and nano size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luna Rahman
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada; (L.R.); (A.W.); (D.W.)
| | - Andrew Williams
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada; (L.R.); (A.W.); (D.W.)
| | - Dongmei Wu
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada; (L.R.); (A.W.); (D.W.)
| | - Sabina Halappanavar
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada; (L.R.); (A.W.); (D.W.)
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
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16
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Pirsaheb M, Nouri M, Massahi T, Makhdoumi P, Baban NA, Hossini H. Microplastics contamination in the most popular brands of Iranian sausages and evaluation of its human exposure. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34363. [PMID: 39100492 PMCID: PMC11295858 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution represents a nascent environmental contaminant that has recently infiltrated human life and the food chain. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the presence of MPs in different brands of Iranian sausages. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of MPs particles were conducted using stereo- and fluorescent microscopy, FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and SEM-EDS (Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) techniques. Samples were collected from the most commonly consumed sausage brands in Iranian markets. The findings showed that the various sausage brands contained an average abundance of 25.7 ± 21.68 (range 10-70) and 55.45 ± 45.5 (range 10-175) particles/kg based on optical and fluorescent microscopy analyses, respectively. Predominantly, MPs were identified in fiber form (77-89 %), with a smaller proportion present in fragmented form (11-23 %). Polymer analysis using FT-IR identified polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) as the primary constituents. Furthermore, the estimated annual intake (EAI) of MPs was calculated at 804 and 3517 particles/kg bw/year for adults and children, respectively, based on optical microscopy observations. In comparison, fluorescent microscopy indicated an intake of 1734 and 7589 particles/kg bw/year for the respective age groups. These results emphasize the potential of MPs contamination to penetrate into different food products including sausages through processing routes, which can threaten human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghdad Pirsaheb
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Monireh Nouri
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Tooraj Massahi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Pouran Makhdoumi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Negin Azadi Baban
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hooshyar Hossini
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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17
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Chowdhury OS, Schmidt PJ, Anderson WB, Emelko MB. Advancing Evaluation of Microplastics Thresholds to Inform Water Treatment Needs and Risks. ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2024; 2:441-452. [PMID: 39049895 PMCID: PMC11264269 DOI: 10.1021/envhealth.3c00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Although human health impacts of microplastics are not well understood, concern regarding chemical contaminants retained on or within them is growing. Drinking water providers are increasingly asked about these risks, but strategies for evaluating them and the extent of treatment needed to manage them are currently lacking. Microplastics can potentially induce health effects if the concentration of contaminants adsorbed to them exceeds predetermined drinking water guidelines (e.g., Maximum Contaminant Levels). The risk posed by microplastics due to adsorbed contaminants is difficult to determine, but a worst-case scenario can be evaluated by using adsorption capacity. Here, a "Threshold Microplastics Concentration" (TMC) framework is developed to evaluate whether waterborne microplastic concentrations can potentially result in the intake of regulated contaminants on/in microplastics at levels of human health concern and identify treatment targets for managing associated health risk. Exceeding the TMC does not indicate an immediate health risk; it informs the need for detailed risk assessment or further treatment evaluation to ensure particle removal targets are achieved. Thus, the TMC concept and framework provide an updateable, science-based screening tool to determine if there is a need for detailed risk assessment or treatment modification due to waterborne microplastics in supplies used for potable water production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar S. Chowdhury
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - Philip J. Schmidt
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - William B. Anderson
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
| | - Monica B. Emelko
- Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L
3G1, Canada
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18
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Liu H, Wen Y, Xu J. Comparative study of polystyrene microplastic transport behavior in three different filter media: Quartz sand, zeolite, and anthracite. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 265:104395. [PMID: 39018629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104395] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that are attracting increasing interest from researchers, and the safety of drinking water is greatly affected by their transportation during filtration. Polystyrene (PS) was selected as a representative MPs, and three filter media (quartz sand, zeolite, and anthracite) commonly found in water plants were used. The retention patterns of PS-MPs by various filter media under various background water quality conditions were methodically investigated with the aid of DLVO theory and colloidal filtration theory. The results show that the different structures and elemental compositions of the three filter media cause them to exhibit different surface roughnesses and surface potentials. A greater surface roughness of the filter media can provide more deposition sites for PS-MPs, and the greater surface roughness of zeolite and anthracite significantly enhances their ability to inhibit the migration of PS-MPs compared with that of quartz sand. However, surface roughness is not the only factor affecting the migration of MPs. The lower absolute value of the surface potential of anthracite causes the DLVO energy between it and PS-MPs to be significantly lower than that between zeolite and PS-MPs, which results in stronger retention of PS-MPs by anthracite, which has a lower surface roughness, than zeolite, which has a higher surface roughness. The transport of PS-MPs in the medium is affected by the combination of the surface roughness of the filter media and the DLVO energy. Under the same operating conditions, the retention efficiencies of the three filter materials for PS-MPs followed the order of quartz sand < zeolite < anthracite. Additionally, the conditions of the solution markedly influenced the transport ability of PS-MPs within the simulated filter column. The transport PS-MPs in the simulated filter column decreased with increasing solution ionic strength and cation valence. Naturally, dissolved organic matter promoted the transfer of PS-MPs in the filter layer, and humic acid had a much stronger facilitating impact than fulvic acid. The study findings might offer helpful insight for improving the ability of filter units ability to retain MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haicheng Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215000, China.
| | - Yu Wen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215000, China
| | - Jingkun Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215000, China
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19
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Basaran B, Aytan Ü, Şentürk Y, Özçifçi Z, Akçay HT. Microplastic contamination in some beverages marketed in türkiye: Characteristics, dietary exposure and risk assessment. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 189:114730. [PMID: 38740239 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114730] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
In this study, microplastic contamination in water, natural mineral water and mineral water, sparkling soft drinks, cold tea and some traditional beverages marketed in Türkiye were assessed. Microplastics physically and chemically characterized by microscope and ATR/FT-IR, respectively. Microplastics were detected in 9 out of 47 beverage samples. A total of 250 microplastics with 5 different polymers, 2 different shapes, and 7 different colours were detected in 47 beverage samples. The average microplastic concentration was 2.24 ± 9.86 particles/L for all beverages analysed. The highest average microplastic concentration was found in mineral waters in glass bottles (average 11.3 particles/L). No microplastics were found in cold tea and other drinks. The total annual microplastic exposure from beverage consumption in male and female individuals aged >15 years was 2029 and 1786 particles/mL/year, respectively. The microplastic load index category of all beverage samples was determined as "moderate". The average pRi level of all beverages was 117 ± 260 and the risk level was determined as "low". The study provides evidence that microplastics are common in beverages and that microplastics are directly ingested by humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burhan Basaran
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye.
| | - Ülgen Aytan
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Yasemen Şentürk
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Zehra Özçifçi
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Hakkı Türker Akçay
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
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20
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Baysal A, Saygin H, Soyocak A. A Comparative Study on the Interaction Between Protein and PET Micro/Nanoplastics: Structural and Surface Characteristics of Particles and Impacts on Lung Carcinoma Cells (A549) and Staphylococcus aureus. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38923375 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The interaction between particles and proteins is a key factor determining the toxicity responses of particles. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the interaction between the emerging pollutant polyethylene terephthalate micro/nanoplastics from water bottles with bovine serum albumin. The physicochemical characteristics of micro/nanoplastics were investigated using nuclear magnetic resonance, x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, dynamic light scattering, and x-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy after exposure to various concentrations and durations of protein. Furthermore, the impact of protein-treated micro/nanoplastics on biological activities was examined using the mitochondrial activity and membrane integrity of A549 cells and the activity and biofilm production of Staphylococcus aureus. The structural characteristics of micro/nanoplastics revealed an interaction with protein. For instance, the assignment of protein-related new proton signals (e.g., CH2, methylene protons of CH2O), changes in available protons s (e.g., CH and CH3), crystallinity, functional groups, elemental ratios, zeta potentials (-11.3 ± 1.3 to -12.4 ± 1.7 to 25.5 ± 2.3 mV), and particle size (395 ± 76 to 496 ± 60 to 866 ± 82 nm) of micro/nanoplastics were significantly observed after protein treatment. In addition, the loading (0.012-0.027 mM) and releasing (0.008-0.013 mM) of protein also showed similar responses with structural characteristics. Moreover, the cell-based responses were changed regarding the structural and surface characteristics of micro/nanoplastics and the loading efficiencies of protein. For example, insignificant mitochondrial activity (2%-10%) and significant membrane integrity (12%-28%) of A549 cells increased compared with control, and reductions in bacterial activity (5%-40%) in many cases and biofilm production specifically at low dose of all treatment stages (13%-46% reduction) were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Baysal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Letters, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasan Saygin
- Application and Research Center for Advanced Studies, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahu Soyocak
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul, Turkey
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21
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Vincoff S, Schleupner B, Santos J, Morrison M, Zhang N, Dunphy-Daly MM, Eward WC, Armstrong AJ, Diana Z, Somarelli JA. The Known and Unknown: Investigating the Carcinogenic Potential of Plastic Additives. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:10445-10457. [PMID: 38830620 PMCID: PMC11191590 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06840] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are routinely ingested and inhaled by humans and other organisms. Despite the frequency of plastic exposure, little is known about its health consequences. Of particular concern are plastic additives─chemical compounds that are intentionally or unintentionally added to plastics to improve functionality or as residual components of plastic production. Additives are often loosely bound to the plastic polymer and may be released during plastic exposures. To better understand the health effects of plastic additives, we performed a comprehensive literature search to compile a list of 2,712 known plastic additives. Then, we performed an integrated toxicogenomic analysis of these additives, utilizing cancer classifications and carcinogenic expression pathways as a primary focus. Screening these substances across two chemical databases revealed two key observations: (1) over 150 plastic additives have known carcinogenicity and (2) the majority (∼90%) of plastic additives lack data on carcinogenic end points. Analyses of additive usage patterns pinpointed specific polymers, functions, and products in which carcinogenic additives reside. Based on published chemical-gene interactions, both carcinogenic additives and additives with unknown carcinogenicity impacted similar biological pathways. The predominant pathways involved DNA damage, apoptosis, the immune response, viral diseases, and cancer. This study underscores the urgent need for a systematic and comprehensive carcinogenicity assessment of plastic additives and regulatory responses to mitigate the potential health risks of plastic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Vincoff
- Department
of Medicine and the Duke Cancer Institute Center for Prostate and
Urologic Cancer, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Beatrice Schleupner
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Jasmine Santos
- Department
of Medicine and the Duke Cancer Institute Center for Prostate and
Urologic Cancer, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Margaret Morrison
- Nicholas
School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Newland Zhang
- Department
of Medicine and the Duke Cancer Institute Center for Prostate and
Urologic Cancer, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Meagan M. Dunphy-Daly
- Division
of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment,
Duke University Marine Laboratory, Duke
University, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, United States
| | - William C. Eward
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Andrew J. Armstrong
- Department
of Medicine and the Duke Cancer Institute Center for Prostate and
Urologic Cancer, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Zoie Diana
- Division
of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment,
Duke University Marine Laboratory, Duke
University, Beaufort, North Carolina 28516, United States
- Department
of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University
of Toronto, 25 Wilcocks
Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S3B2, Canada
| | - Jason A. Somarelli
- Department
of Medicine and the Duke Cancer Institute Center for Prostate and
Urologic Cancer, Duke University Medical
Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
- Nicholas
School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
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22
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Winiarska E, Jutel M, Zemelka-Wiacek M. The potential impact of nano- and microplastics on human health: Understanding human health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118535. [PMID: 38460665 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are used all over the world. Unfortunately, due to limited biodegradation, plastics cause a significant level of environmental pollution. The smallest recognized to date are termed nanoplastics (1 nm [nm] up to 1 μm [μm]) and microplastics (1 μm-5 mm). These nano- and microplastics can enter the human body through the respiratory system via inhalation, the digestive tract via consumption of contaminated food and water, or penetration through the skin via cosmetics and clothes contact. Bioaccumulation of plastics in the human body can potentially lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory disorders like lung cancer, asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, neurological symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness, inflammatory bowel disease and even disturbances in gut microbiota. Most studies to date have confirmed that nano- and microplastics can induce apoptosis in cells and have genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of plastics' actions may help extrapolate the risks to humans. The article provides a comprehensive review of articles in databases regarding the impact of nano- and microplastics on human health. The review included retrospective studies and case reports of people exposed to nanoplastics and microplastics. This research highlights the need for further research to fully understand the extent of the impact of plastics on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Winiarska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
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23
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Gani A, Pathak S, Hussain A, Shukla AK, Chand S. Emerging pollutant in surface water bodies: a review on monitoring, analysis, mitigation measures and removal technologies of micro-plastics. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:214. [PMID: 38842590 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01992-7] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Water bodies play a crucial role in supporting life, maintaining the environment, and preserving the ecology for the people of India. However, in recent decades, human activities have led to various alterations in aquatic environments, resulting in environmental degradation through pollution. The safety of utilizing surface water sources for drinking and other purposes has come under intense scrutiny due to rapid population growth and industrial expansion. Surface water pollution due to micro-plastics (MPs) (plastics < 5 mm in size) is one of the emerging pollutants in metropolitan cities of developing countries because of its utmost resilience and synthetic nature. Recent studies on the surface water bodies (river, pond, Lake etc.) portrait the correlation between the MPs level with different parameters of pollution such as specific conductivity, total phosphate, and biological oxygen demand. Fibers represent the predominant form of MPs discovered in surface water bodies, exhibiting fluctuations across seasons. Consequently, present study prioritizes understanding the adaptation, prevalence, attributes, fluctuations, and spatial dispersion of MPs in both sediment and surface water environments. Furthermore, the study aims to identify existing gaps in the current understanding and underscore opportunities for future investigation. From the present study, it has been reported that, the concentration of MPs in the range of 0.2-45.2 items/L at the Xisha Islands in the south China sea, whereas in India it was found in the range of 96 items/L in water samples and 259 items/kg in sediment samples. This would certainly assist the urban planners in achieving sustainable development goals to mitigate the increasing amount of emergent pollutant load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Gani
- Civil Engineering Department, Netaji Subhas University of Technology, New Delhi, 110073, India
| | - Shray Pathak
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India.
| | - Athar Hussain
- Civil Engineering Department, Netaji Subhas University of Technology, New Delhi, 110073, India
| | - Anoop Kumar Shukla
- Manipal School of Architecture and Planning, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Sasmita Chand
- Manipal School of Architecture and Planning, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
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24
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Sharma S, Bhardwaj A, Thakur M, Saini A. Understanding microplastic pollution of marine ecosystem: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:41402-41445. [PMID: 37442935 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28314-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging as prominent pollutants across the globe. Oceans are becoming major sinks for these pollutants, and their presence is widespread in coastal regions, oceanic surface waters, water column, and sediments. Studies have revealed that microplastics cause serious threats to the marine ecosystem as well as human beings. In the past few years, many research efforts have focused on studying different aspects relating to microplastic pollution of the oceans. This review summarizes sources, migration routes, and ill effects of marine microplastic pollution along with various conventional as well as advanced methods for microplastics analysis and control. However, various knowledge gaps in detection and analysis require attention in order to understand the sources and transport of microplastics, which is critical to deploying mitigation strategies at appropriate locations. Advanced removal methods and an integrated approach are necessary, including government policies and stringent regulations to control the release of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Aprajita Bhardwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Monika Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anita Saini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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25
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Chen Y, Meng Y, Liu G, Huang X, Chai G. Probabilistic Estimation of Airborne Micro- and Nanoplastic Intake in Humans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9071-9081. [PMID: 38748887 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c09189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Little research exists on the magnitude, variability, and uncertainty of human exposure to airborne micro- and nanoplastics (AMNPs), despite their critical role in human exposure to MNPs. We probabilistically estimate the global intake of AMNPs through three main pathways: indoor inhalation, outdoor inhalation, and ingestion during indoor meals, for both children and adults. The median inhalation of AMPs is 1,207.7 (90% CI, 42.5-8.48 × 104) and 1,354.7 (90% CI, 47.4-9.55 × 104) N/capita/day for children and adults, respectively. The annual intake of AMPs is 13.18 mg/capita/a for children and 19.10 mg/capita/a for adults, which is approximately one-fifth and one-third of the mass of a standard stamp, assuming a consistent daily intake of medians. The majority of AMP number intake occurs through inhalation, while the ingestion of deposited AMPs during meals contributes the most in terms of mass. Furthermore, the median ANP intake through outdoor inhalation is 9,638.1 N/day (8.23 × 10-6 μg/d) and 5,410.6 N/day (4.62 × 10-6 μg/d) for children and adults, respectively, compared to 5.30 × 105 N/day (5.79 × 10-4 μg/d) and 6.00 × 105 N/day (6.55 × 10-4 μg/d) via indoor inhalation. Considering the increased toxicity of smaller MNPs, the significant number of ANPs inhaled warrants great attention. Collaborative efforts are imperative to further elucidate and combat the current MPN risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yuchuan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Guodong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xiaohua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Guangming Chai
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- College of Water Resources and Hydropower, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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26
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Eid Z, Mahmoud UM, Sayed AEDH. Deleterious effects of polypropylene released from paper cups on blood profile and liver tissue of Clarias gariepinus: bioremediation using Spirulina. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1380652. [PMID: 38846421 PMCID: PMC11155391 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1380652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous studies on microplastics, the biological impacts of polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) and its toxicity on freshwater fish have yet to be fully revealed. The purpose of this research was to look at the potentially harmful effects of PP-MPs in freshwater African catfish Clarias gariepinus and bioremediation using Spirulina. After acclimatization to laboratory conditions, 108 fish (125 ± 3 gm and 27 ± 2 cm) were assigned into triplicate six experimental groups (12 fish/group), a control group, Spirulina group (SP), PP-MP-treated groups (0.14 and 0.28 mg/l PP-MPs), and PP-MP + Spirulina-treated groups (0.14 mg/l PP-MPs + 200 mg/L SP and 0.28 mg/l PP-MPs +200 mg/L SP) for 15-day exposure and 45-day recovery after that. The hematological parameters exhibiting significance (RBCs, Hct, Hb, and MCV) or non-significance (MCH and MCHC) either decreased with the increase in PP-MP doses from 0.0 in the control to 0.28 mg/L red blood cells (RBCs), hematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), hemoglobin (Hb) and platelets or increased with such an increase in doses (mean corpuscular volume (MCV)). The liver enzyme activity, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) exhibited non-significant (p ≥ 0.05) or significant (p < 0.05) increases in (0.14 and 0.28 mg/L) PP-MP-exposed groups, respectively, except ALP. Furthermore, there was a significant (p < 0.05) or non-significant (p ≥ 0.05) increase in 0.14 and 0.28 mg/l PP-MP +200 mg/L-exposure groups, respectively, compared to the control group and the same exposure group without Spirulina. In comparison to the control group, PP-MPs (0.14 and 0.28 mg/L) induced a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the percentage of poikilocytosis and nuclear abnormalities of RBCs. The liver tissue from fish exposed to PP-MPs exhibited varying degrees of pathological changes. These results indicated that these pathological changes increased with PP-MP concentration, suggesting that the effect of PP-MPs was dose-dependent. After 45 days of recovery under normal conditions, it was obvious that there was a significant improvement in the percentage of poikilocytosis and nuclear abnormalities of RBCs, as well as a non-significant improvement in hemato-biochemical parameters and liver tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Eid
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Usama M. Mahmoud
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Alaa El-Din H. Sayed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Molecular Biology Research & Studies Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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27
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V L Leonard S, Liddle CR, Atherall CA, Chapman E, Watkins M, D J Calaminus S, Rotchell JM. Microplastics in human blood: Polymer types, concentrations and characterisation using μFTIR. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108751. [PMID: 38761430 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are an everyday part of life, and are now ubiquitous in the environment. Crucially, MPs have not just been found within the environment, but also within human bodies, including the blood. We aimed to provide novel information on the range of MP polymer types present, as well as their size and shape characteristics, in human whole blood from 20 healthy volunteers. Twenty-four polymer types were identified from 18 out of 20 (90 %) donors and quantified in blood, with the majority observed for the first time. Using an LOQ approach, five polymer types met the threshold with a lower mean ± SD of 2466 ± 4174 MP/L. The concentrations of plastics analysed in blood samples ranged from 1.84 - 4.65 μg/mL. Polyethylene (32 %), ethylene propylene diene (14 %), and ethylene-vinyl-acetate/alcohol (12 %) fragments were the most abundant. MP particles that were identified within the blood samples had a mean particle length of 127.99 ± 293.26 µm (7-3000 µm), and a mean particle width of 57.88 ± 88.89 µm (5-800 µm). The MPs were predominantly categorised as fragments (88 %) and were white/clear (79 %). A variety of plastic additive chemicals were identified including endocrine disrupting-classed phthalates. The procedural blank samples comprised 7 polymer types, that were distinct from those identified in blood, mainly resin (25 %), polyethylene terephthalate (17 %), and polystyrene (17 %) with a mean ± SD of 4.80 ± 5.59 MP/L. This study adds to the growing evidence that MPs are taken up into the human body and are transported via the bloodstream. The shape and sizes of the particles raise important questions with respect to their presence and associated hazards in terms of potential detrimental impacts such as vascular inflammation, build up within major organs, and changes to either immune cell response, or haemostasis and thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie V L Leonard
- Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Catriona R Liddle
- Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte A Atherall
- Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Chapman
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Watkins
- College of Health and Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, United Kingdom
| | - Simon D J Calaminus
- Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom.
| | - Jeanette M Rotchell
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom; College of Health and Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, United Kingdom.
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28
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Alijagic A, Suljević D, Fočak M, Sulejmanović J, Šehović E, Särndahl E, Engwall M. The triple exposure nexus of microplastic particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants from a human health perspective. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108736. [PMID: 38759545 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) is increasing at a dramatic rate globally, posing risks for exposure and subsequent potential adverse effects on human health. Apart from being physical objects, MP particles contain thousands of plastic-associated chemicals (i.e., monomers, chemical additives, and non-intentionally added substances) captured within the polymer matrix. These chemicals are often migrating from MPs and can be found in various environmental matrices and human food chains; increasing the risks for exposure and health effects. In addition to the physical and chemical attributes of MPs, plastic surfaces effectively bind exogenous chemicals, including environmental pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants). Therefore, MPs can act as vectors of environmental pollution across air, drinking water, and food, further amplifying health risks posed by MP exposure. Critically, fragmentation of plastics in the environment increases the risk for interactions with cells, increases the presence of available surfaces to leach plastic-associated chemicals, and adsorb and transfer environmental pollutants. Hence, this review proposes the so-called triple exposure nexus approach to comprehensively map existing knowledge on interconnected health effects of MP particles, plastic-associated chemicals, and environmental pollutants. Based on the available data, there is a large knowledge gap in regard to the interactions and cumulative health effects of the triple exposure nexus. Each component of the triple nexus is known to induce genotoxicity, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, but knowledge about long-term and inter-individual health effects is lacking. Furthermore, MPs are not readily excreted from organisms after ingestion and they have been found accumulated in human blood, cardiac tissue, placenta, etc. Even though the number of studies on MPs-associated health impacts is increasing rapidly, this review underscores that there is a pressing necessity to achieve an integrated assessment of MPs' effects on human health in order to address existing and future knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi Alijagic
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Damir Suljević
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Muhamed Fočak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jasmina Sulejmanović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Elma Šehović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, 71 000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Eva Särndahl
- Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Magnus Engwall
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Center (MTM), Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
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29
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Bogush AA, Kourtchev I. Disposable surgical/medical face masks and filtering face pieces: Source of microplastics and chemical additives in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123792. [PMID: 38518974 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123792] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
The production and consumption of disposable face masks (DFMs) increased intensely during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a high amount of them being found in the terrestrial and aquatic environment. The main goal of this research study is to conduct a comparative evaluation of the water-leachability of microplastics (MPs) and chemical additives from various types of disposable surgical/medical face masks (MM DFMs) and filtering face pieces (FFPs). Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was used for MPs analysis. Liquid Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry was used to analyse analytes presented in the water-leachates of DFMs. FFPs released 3-4 times more microplastic particles compared to MM DFMs. The release of MPs into water from all tested DFMs without mechanical stress suggests potential MP contamination originating from the DFM production process. Our study for the first time identified bisphenol B (0.25-0.42 μg/L) and 1,4-bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (163.9-115.0 μg/L) as leachables from MM DFMs. MPs in the water-leachates vary in size, with predominant particles <100 μm, and the release order from DFMs is MMIIR > MMII > FFP3>FFP2>MMI. The main type of microplastics identified in the water leachates of the investigated face masks was polypropylene, accounting for 93-97% for MM DFMs and 82-83% for FFPs. Other polymers such as polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyester/polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide/Nylon, polyvinylchloride, and ethylene-propylene copolymer were also identified, but in smaller amounts. FFPs released a wider variety and a higher percentage (17-18%) of other polymers compared to MM DFMs (3-7%). Fragments and fibres were identified in all water-leachate samples, and fragments, particularly debris of polypropylene fibres, were the most common MP morphotype. The findings in this study are important in contributing additional data to develop science-based policy recommendations on the health and environmental impacts of MPs and associated chemical additives originated from DFMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A Bogush
- Research Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, Coventry University, Ryton-on Dunsmore, CV8 3LG, United Kingdom.
| | - Ivan Kourtchev
- Research Centre for Agroecology, Water and Resilience, Coventry University, Ryton-on Dunsmore, CV8 3LG, United Kingdom
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30
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Wang R, Tang H, Yang R, Zhang J. Emerging contaminants in water environments: progress, evolution, and prospects. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2024; 89:2763-2782. [PMID: 38822613 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.151] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
This article employs bibliometric tools like VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and CiteSpace for a comprehensive visual analysis of 1,612 documents on Emerging Contaminants in Waters from the Web of Science database. The objective is to elucidate the historical development, research hotspots, and trends in international studies of this field, offering valuable insights and guidance for future research directions. The analysis reveals a consistent increase in publications from 2003 to 2023, with the United States, China, and Spain being the most prolific contributors. A detailed examination of keyword co-occurrence and cluster analysis shows a predominant focus on themes such as pollutant detection, risk assessment, and biogeochemical cycling. Furthermore, the study underscores the significance of forming interdisciplinary networks among authors and institutions, highlighting its critical role in enhancing the quality and innovation of scientific research. The findings of this study not only chart the progression and focal points of research in this domain but also underscore the pivotal role of international collaboration, serving as an indispensable reference for shaping future research trajectories and fostering global cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Wang
- Nanjing Water Group Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210000, China; R.W. and H.T. contributed equally to this work and should be regarded as co-first authors
| | - Huanchen Tang
- College of Fashion and Art Design, Donghua University, Shanghai 200051, China E-mail: ; R.W. and H.T. contributed equally to this work and should be regarded as co-first authors
| | - Ruitao Yang
- School of Finance and Economics, Jingjiang College, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212028, China
| | - Jingduo Zhang
- College of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
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31
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Farr NTH, Workman VL, Saad S, Roman S, Hearnden V, Chapple CR, Murdoch C, Rodenburg C, MacNeil S. Uncovering the relationship between macrophages and polypropylene surgical mesh. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 159:213800. [PMID: 38377947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213800] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Currently, in vitro testing examines the cytotoxicity of biomaterials but fails to consider how materials respond to mechanical forces and the immune response to them; both are crucial for successful long-term implantation. A notable example of this failure is polypropylene mid-urethral mesh used in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The mesh was largely successful in abdominal hernia repair but produced significant complications when repurposed to treat SUI. Developing more physiologically relevant in vitro test models would allow more physiologically relevant data to be collected about how biomaterials will interact with the body. This study investigates the effects of mechanochemical distress (a combination of oxidation and mechanical distention) on polypropylene mesh surfaces and the effect this has on macrophage gene expression. Surface topology of the mesh was characterised using SEM and AFM; ATR-FTIR, EDX and Raman spectroscopy was applied to detect surface oxidation and structural molecular alterations. Uniaxial mechanical testing was performed to reveal any bulk mechanical changes. RT-qPCR of selected pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory genes was carried out on macrophages cultured on control and mechanochemically distressed PP mesh. Following exposure to mechanochemical distress the mesh surface was observed to crack and craze and helical defects were detected in the polymer backbone. Surface oxidation of the mesh was seen after macrophage attachment for 7 days. These changes in mesh surface triggered modified gene expression in macrophages. Pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory genes were upregulated after macrophages were cultured on mechanochemically distressed mesh, whereas the same genes were down-regulated in macrophages exposed to control mesh. This study highlights the relationship between macrophages and polypropylene surgical mesh, thus offering more insight into the fate of an implanted material than existing in vitro testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas T H Farr
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Victoria L Workman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sanad Saad
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Department of Urology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sabiniano Roman
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Vanessa Hearnden
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Craig Murdoch
- School of Clinical Dentistry, 19 Claremont Crescent, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Cornelia Rodenburg
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK; Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sheila MacNeil
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sir Robert Hadfield Building, Mappin Street, Sheffield, UK
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Cheng X, Xiao K, Jiang W, Peng G, Chen P, Shu T, Huang H, Shi X, Yang J. Selection, identification and evaluation of optimal reference genes in Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) under polypropylene microplastics stress. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:170894. [PMID: 38367736 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170894] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) are emerging environmental contaminants that have the potential to cause adverse effects on aquatic organisms. Reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is a valuable tool for assessing the gene expression profiles under PP-MPs stress. To obtain an accurate gene expression profile of tissue inflammation and apoptosis that reflects the molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of PP-MPs on Chinese sturgeon, identifying reliable reference genes is crucial for RT-qPCR analysis. In this study, we constructed an experiment model of Chinese sturgeon exposed to PP-MPs, assessed the pathological injury, metabolic profile responses and oxidative stress in liver, evaluated the reliability of 8 reliable reference genes by 4 commonly used algorithms including GeNorm, NormFinder, BeatKeeper, Delta Ct, and then analyzed the performance of inflammatory response genes in liver, spleen and kidney with the best reference gene. HE staining revealed that the cytoplasm full small vacuoles and nucleus diameter increased were occurred in the liver cell of PP-MPs in treatment groups. Additionally, oxidative and biochemical parameters were significantly changes in the liver of treatment groups. For the reference genes in PP-MPs exposure experiments, this study screening the optimal reference genes including: EF1α and GAPDH for liver and spleen, and GAPDH and RPS18 for kidney. Besides, 2 inflammatory response genes (NLRP3, TNF-α) were chosen to assess the optimal reference genes using the least stable reference gene (TUB) as a control, verified the practicality of the select reference genes in different tissues. We also found that the low concentration of PP-MPs could induce the liver tissue damage and inflammatory response in Chinese sturgeon. Our study initially evaluated the impact of short-time exposure with PP-MPs in Chinese sturgeon and provided 3 sets of validated optimal reference genes in Chinese sturgeon exposure to PP-MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Kan Xiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Guangyuan Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pei Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Tingting Shu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Hongtao Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Xuetao Shi
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China; Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang, Hubei 443100, China.
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Chen CY, Lin Z. Exploring the potential and challenges of developing physiologically-based toxicokinetic models to support human health risk assessment of microplastic and nanoplastic particles. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 186:108617. [PMID: 38599027 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108617] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) pollution has emerged as a significant and widespread environmental issue. Humans are inevitably exposed to MPs and NPs via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contacts from various sources. However, mechanistic knowledge of their distribution, interaction, and potency in the body is still lacking. To address this knowledge gap, we have undertaken the task of elucidating the toxicokinetic (TK) behaviors of MPs and NPs, aiming to provide mechanistic information for constructing a conceptual physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model to support in silico modeling approaches. Our effort involved a thorough examination of the existing literature and data collation on the presence of MPs in the human body and in vitro/ex vivo/in vivo biodistribution across various cells and tissues. By comprehending the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion mechanisms of MPs and NPs in relation to their physicochemical attributes, we established a foundational understanding of the link between external exposure and internal tissue dosimetry. We observed that particle size and surface chemistry have been thoroughly explored in previous experimental studies. However, certain attributes, such as polymer type, shape, and biofilm/biocorona, warrant attention and further examination. We discussed the fundamental disparities in TK properties of MPs/NPs from those of engineered nanoparticles. We proposed a preliminary PBTK framework with several possible modeling approaches and discussed existing challenges for further investigation. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive compilation of existing TK data of MPs/NPs, a critical overview of TK processes and mechanisms, and proposes potential PBTK modeling approaches, particularly regarding their applicability to the human system, and outlines future perspectives for developing PBTK models and their integration into human health risk assessment of MPs and NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yun Chen
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, FL 32608, United States
| | - Zhoumeng Lin
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, FL 32608, United States.
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Dailianis S, Rouni M, Ainali NM, Vlastos D, Kyzas GZ, Lambropoulou DA, Bikiaris DN. New insights into the size-independent bioactive potential of pristine and UV-B aged polyethylene microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170616. [PMID: 38311086 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigates the morphological, physicochemical, and structural changes occurred by the UV-B aging process of low-density polyethylene microplastics (LDPE MPs), as well as the bioactive potential of both pristine and UVaged MPs towards healthy peripheral blood lymphocytes. Specifically, LDPE MPs (100-180 μm) prepared by mechanical milling of LDPE pellets, were UV-B irradiated for 120 days (wavelength 280 nm; temperature 25 °C; relative humidity 50 %) and further examined for alterations in their particle size and surface, their functional groups, thermal stability, and crystallinity (by means of SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD patterns, and TGA measurements, respectively). In parallel, isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes were treated with different concentrations (25-500 μg mL-1) of either pristine or aged MPs (UVfree and UV120d LDPE MPs) for assessing the cytogenotoxic (by means of trypan blue exclusion test and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay using cytochalasin-B) and oxidative effects (using the DCFH-DA staining) in both cases. According to the results, UVfree and UV120d-LDPE MPs, with a size ranging from 100 to 180 μm, can differentially promote cytogenotoxic and oxidative alterations in human lymphocytes. In fact, UVfree LDPE MPs not being able to be internalized by cells due to their size, could indirectly promote the onset of mild oxidative and cytogenotoxic damage in human peripheral lymphocytes, via a dose-dependent but size-independent manner. The latter is more profound in case of the irregular-shaped UV120d-LDPE MPs, bearing improved dispersibility and sharp edges (by means of cracks and holes), as well as oxygen-containing and carbonyl groups. To our knowledge, the present findings provide new data regarding the bioactive behavior of pristine and UV-B aged LDPE MPs, at least in the in vitro biological model tested, thus giving new evidence for their size-independent and/or indirect mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Dailianis
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece.
| | - Maria Rouni
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - Nina Maria Ainali
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitris Vlastos
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras, GR-26500, Rio, Patras, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-65404 Kavala, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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35
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Covello C, Di Vincenzo F, Cammarota G, Pizzoferrato M. Micro(nano)plastics and Their Potential Impact on Human Gut Health: A Narrative Review. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2658-2677. [PMID: 38534784 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46030168] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are becoming an increasingly severe global problem due to their widespread distribution and complex impact on living organisms. Apart from their environmental impact, the effects of MNPs on living organisms have also continued to attract attention. The harmful impact of MNPs has been extensively documented in marine invertebrates and larger marine vertebrates like fish. However, the research on the toxicity of these particles on mammals is still limited, and their possible effects on humans are poorly understood. Considering that MNPs are commonly found in food or food packaging, humans are primarily exposed to them through ingestion. It would be valuable to investigate the potential harmful effects of these particles on gut health. This review focuses on recent research exploring the toxicological impacts of micro- and nanoplastics on the gut, as observed in human cell lines and mammalian models. Available data from various studies indicate that the accumulation of MNPs in mammalian models and human cells may result in adverse consequences, in terms of epithelial toxicity, immune toxicity, and the disruption of the gut microbiota. The paper also discusses the current research limitations and prospects in this field, aiming to provide a scientific basis and reference for further studies on the toxic mechanisms of micro- and nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Covello
- Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Gastroenterology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Di Vincenzo
- Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Gastroenterology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cammarota
- UOC Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Pizzoferrato
- UOC Gastroenterologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Meng X, Chen S, Li D, Song Y, Sun L. Identification of marine microplastics based on laser-induced fluorescence and principal component analysis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133352. [PMID: 38198873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Although the laser-induced fluorescence method shows great potential for microplastic particle detection, overlapping fluorescence signals make accurate type and proportion identification difficult. This paper presents the identification of marine microplastics based on laser-induced fluorescence and principal component analysis. This method works by measuring the fluorescence spectra of water-containing microplastic samples irradiated with a 405-nm laser, which are then analyzed using the principal component analysis (PCA) method. The nine types of microplastics were differentiated based on their positions in the PCA score plot. The mixed sample was positioned between the pure microplastic samples. The component ratio determines its position relative to that of the pure microplastic samples. The first two principal components of the mixed microplastics were linearly dependent. Natural seawater had less influence on the detection, and a mass concentration as low as 0.03% was detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongfei Meng
- Department of Marine Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China; Department of Navigation and Shipping, ShanDong JiaoTong University, Weihai 264200, China
| | - Shimeng Chen
- Department of Marine Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Dongqing Li
- Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Yongxin Song
- Department of Marine Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China.
| | - Lanjun Sun
- Department of Navigation and Shipping, ShanDong JiaoTong University, Weihai 264200, China
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Zhang W, Zhang W, Teng M, Xu J, Wang J, Yang J, Liu Y. The effect and mechanism of variable particle size microplastics and levofloxacin on the neurotoxicity of Rana nigromaculata based on the microorganism-intestine-brain axis. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120329. [PMID: 38373375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) usually appear in the aquatic environment as complex pollutants in combination with other environmental pollutants, such as levofloxacin (LVFX). After a 45-day exposure to LVFX and MPs with different particle sizes at environmental levels, LVFX was neurotoxic to Rana nigromaculata tadpoles. The order of the effects of the exposure treatment on tadpole behavior was: LVFX-MP3>LVFX-MP1>LVFX-MP2 ≥ LVFX. Results of transcriptome analysis of tadpole brain tissue showed that LVFX in combination with 0.10 and 10.00 μm MP interferes with the nervous system through the cell adhesion molecules pathway. Interestingly, the order of effects of the co-exposure on oxidative stress in the intestine was inconsistent with that of tadpole behavior. We found that Paraacteroides might be a microplastic indicator species for the gut microbiota of aquatic organisms. The results of the targeted metabolism of neurotransmitters in the intestine suggest that in the LVFX-MP2 treatment, LVFX alleviated the intestinal microbiota disorder caused by 1.00 μm MP, by regulating intestinal microbiota participating in the TCA cycle VI and gluconeogenesis and tetrapyrrole biosynthesis I, while downregulating Met and Orn, and upregulating 5HIAA, thereby easing the neurotoxicity to tadpoles exposed to LVFX-MP2. This work is of great significance for the comprehensive assessment of the aquatic ecological risks of microplastics-antibiotic compound pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Miaomiao Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Jiashu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Jiali Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Jiahang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yuxi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
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Motivarash Y, Bhatt A, Kardani H. Microplastic (MP) occurrence in pelagic and demersal fishes of Gujarat, northwest coast of India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:17239-17255. [PMID: 38334930 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32361-7] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are globally observed in marine as well as freshwater habitats, and laboratory studies have shown that marine organisms can accidentally ingest them. Monitoring the MP ingestion by fish in the environment is very crucial for understanding the risk of consuming MP-contaminated fish for human health. In this study, we investigated MP ingestion in 400 fish individuals from the Veraval Coast, in the state of Gujarat, India. There was 100% MP occurrence in the inedible tissues of fish, and 68% of the analyzed fishes presented MPs in edible tissues. The most dominant MPs based on their size in fishes were 0.05-0.1 mm. One hundred percent presence of only fibres in edible tissue was observed, while in inedible tissue, it was 77%, 20.42% and 2.58% of fibre, fragment and film respectively. The most common MP colour was blue. The predominant polymers were low-density polyethylene (LDPE) followed by polypropylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polystyrene. This is the first study performed on MPs in marine fishes from this region. Our findings suggest that the abundance of MPs observed in this area is higher than in other states of the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagnesh Motivarash
- College of Fisheries science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ashishkumar Bhatt
- College of Fisheries science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat, India
| | - Hitesh Kardani
- Fisheries Research Station, Kamdhenu university, Sikka, Gujarat, India
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Lu T, Li D, Yuan X, Wang Z, Shao Z, Feng X, Yang C, Liu H, Zhang G, Wang Y, Liu X, Zhou L, Xu M. Potential Effects of Orally Ingesting Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics on the Mouse Heart. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2024; 24:291-301. [PMID: 38369677 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-024-09837-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET MPs) are widespread in natural environment, and can enter organisms and accumulate in the body, but its toxicity has not been well studied. Therefore, in order to investigate the toxic effects of PET microplastics on mammals, this study investigated the toxic effects of PET MPs on ICR mice and H9C2 cells by different treatment groups. The results indicated the cardiac tissue of mice in the PET-H (50 µg/mL) group showed significant capillary congestion, myocardial fiber breakage, and even significant fibrosis compared to the PET-C (control) group (P < 0.01). Results of the TUNEL assay demonstrated significant apoptosis in myocardial tissue in the PET-H and PET-M (5 µg/mL) groups (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, Western blotting showed increased expression of the apoptosis-related protein Bax and decreased expression of PARP, caspase-3, and Bcl-2 proteins in both myocardial tissues and H9C2 cells. In addition, flow cytometry confirmed that PET MPs decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis in H9C2 cells; however, this trend was reversed by N-acetylcysteamine application. Moreover, PET MP treatment induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in H9C2 cells, while the MDA level in the myocardial tissue was elevated, and the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were decreased (P < 0.01), indicating a change in the redox environment. In conclusion, PET MPs promoted cardiomyocyte apoptosis by inducing oxidative stress and activating mitochondria-mediated apoptotic processes, ultimately leading to myocardial fibrosis. This study provides ideas for the prevention of PET MP toxicity and promotes thinking about enhancing plastic pollution control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Lu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Desheng Li
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Yuan
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Drug Screen and Evaluation Research Center, Shandong International Biotechnology Park Development Co., Ltd, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuang Shao
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaotian Feng
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanqing Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohan Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Maolei Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescription Effect and Clinical Evaluation of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, YanTai, 264003, ShanDong, People's Republic of China.
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40
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Aristizabal M, Jiménez-Orrego KV, Caicedo-León MD, Páez-Cárdenas LS, Castellanos-García I, Villalba-Moreno DL, Ramírez-Zuluaga LV, Hsu JTS, Jaller J, Gold M. Microplastics in dermatology: Potential effects on skin homeostasis. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:766-772. [PMID: 38226412 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16167] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have become a growing concern in dermatology due to their widespread presence in cosmetic formulations and the environment. These minuscule synthetic polymer particles prompt an essential exploration of their potential impact on dermatological homeostasis. AIMS This study aims to investigate the effects of MPs and NPs on the integumentary system. Specifically, it seeks to understand the potential cutaneous alterations, inflammatory responses, and disruptions to the skin's physiological functions caused by these synthetic particles. PATIENTS/METHODS The investigation involves a comprehensive analysis of emerging research on MPs and NPs. This includes their presence in cosmetic formulations and environmental pervasiveness. The study delves into their capacity to breach the cutaneous barrier, raising concerns about the implications of prolonged exposure. RESULTS Evidence suggests that MPs and NPs may indeed incite cutaneous alterations, provoke inflammatory responses, and disturb the homeostasis of the skin's physiological functions. Their small dimensions enhance their capability to breach the cutaneous barrier, further emphasizing the apprehensions associated with prolonged exposure. CONCLUSIONS While a precise understanding of the implications of MPs and NPs on dermatological health remains an ongoing scientific endeavor, this study underscores the growing significance of these synthetic particles. The findings emphasize the need for proactive measures to safeguard both individual well-being and environmental preservation in the context of dermatological health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jeffrey T S Hsu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jose Jaller
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Michael Gold
- Gold Skin Care Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Kataria N, Yadav S, Garg VK, Rene ER, Jiang JJ, Rose PK, Kumar M, Khoo KS. Occurrence, transport, and toxicity of microplastics in tropical food chains: perspectives view and way forward. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:98. [PMID: 38393462 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01862-2] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, which have a diameter of less than 5 mm, are becoming an increasingly prevalent contaminant in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems due to the dramatic increase in plastic production to 390.7 million tonnes in 2021. Among all the plastics produced since 1950, nearly 80% ended up in the environment or landfills and eventually reached the oceans. Currently, 82-358 trillion plastic particles, equivalent to 1.1-4.9 million tonnes by weight, are floating on the ocean's surface. The interactions between microorganisms and microplastics have led to the transportation of other associated pollutants to higher trophic levels of the food chain, where microplastics eventually reach plants, animals, and top predators. This review paper focuses on the interactions and origins of microplastics in diverse environmental compartments that involve terrestrial and aquatic food chains. The present review study also critically discusses the toxicity potential of microplastics in the food chain. This systematic review critically identified 206 publications from 2010 to 2022, specifically reported on microplastic transport and ecotoxicological impact in aquatic and terrestrial food chains. Based on the ScienceDirect database, the total number of studies with "microplastic" as the keyword in their title increased from 75 to 4813 between 2010 and 2022. Furthermore, various contaminants are discussed, including how microplastics act as a vector to reach organisms after ingestion. This review paper would provide useful perspectives in comprehending the possible effects of microplastics and associated contaminants from primary producers to the highest trophic level (i.e. human health).
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Affiliation(s)
- Navish Kataria
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, Haryana, 121006, India
| | - Sangita Yadav
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Vinod Kumar Garg
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151001, India
| | - Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2601 DA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Advanced Environmental Ultra Research Laboratory (ADVENTURE), Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Center for Environmental Risk Management (CERM), Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Pawan Kumar Rose
- Department of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, Haryana, 125055, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Kuan Shiong Khoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India.
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Lu L, Zhang R, Wang K, Tian J, Wu Q, Xu L. Occurrence, influencing factors and sources of atmospheric microplastics in peri-urban farmland ecosystems of Beijing, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168834. [PMID: 38036125 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168834] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Atmosphere is an important component of the microplastics (MPs) cycle. However, studies on atmospheric MPs in peri-urban farmland ecosystems are limited. Herein, the occurrence, influencing factors and geographic sources of atmospheric MPs in peri-urban farmland ecosystems have been analyzed. The average deposition flux of atmospheric MPs was found to be 167.09 ± 92.03 item·m-2·d-1. Around 68 % MPs had particle size <1000 μm, while the main colors of MPs were black (40.71 %) and blue (20.64 %). Approximately 91 % MPs were fibers, while polyethylene terephthalate (49 %) and rayon (36.93 %) were observed as the major microplastic types. The main factors influencing the atmospheric deposition of MPs were gross domestic product (GDP), population density, air pressure, and wind direction. Deposition fluxes exhibited positive correlations with GDP, population density and air pressure, and negative correlations with wind direction. Combined with the backward trajectory model, MPs were mainly found to be originated from the southeast in September and from the northwest in October-February. The study of atmospheric MPs in farmland ecosystems in peri-urban areas is important for the protection of ecological environment, prevention of human diseases and control of MPs pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luli Lu
- College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Key Laboratory of Karst Georesources and Environment, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 500025, China; Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Ruixuan Zhang
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Kang Wang
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Jiayu Tian
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China
| | - Qixin Wu
- College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Key Laboratory of Karst Georesources and Environment, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 500025, China.
| | - Li Xu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing 100097, China; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Agriculture Environment Monitoring, Beijing 100097, China.
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Zhao B, Rehati P, Yang Z, Cai Z, Guo C, Li Y. The potential toxicity of microplastics on human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168946. [PMID: 38043812 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are plastic particles, films, and fibers with a diameter of < 5 mm. Given their long-standing existence in the environment and terrible increase in annual emissions, concerns were raised about the potential health risk of microplastics on human beings. In particular, the increased consumption of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased human contact with microplastics. To date, the emergence of microplastics in the human body, such as feces, blood, placenta, lower airway, and lungs, has been reported. Related toxicological investigations of microplastics were gradually increased. To comprehensively illuminate the interplay of microplastic exposure and human health, we systematically reviewed the updated toxicological data of microplastics and summarized their mode of action, adverse effects, and toxic mechanisms. The emerging critical issues in the current toxicological investigations were proposed and discussed. Our work would facilitate a better understanding of MPs-induced health hazards for toxicological evaluation and provide helpful information for regulatory decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bosen Zhao
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Palizhati Rehati
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Caixia Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| | - Yanbo Li
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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Sun J, Zhu Y, Yin H, Yin J. The release of polypropylene plastic from disposable face masks in different water conditions and their potential toxicity in human cells. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123296. [PMID: 38182010 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Due to their extensive use during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, many disposable face masks are irresponsibly deposited into the water environment, threatening the health of people living nearby. However, the effects of water conditions on the degradation and potential hazards of these masks are generally unclear. This paper entailed the release and cellular toxicity of micro/nano plastics from disposable face masks once discarded in different waters, including soil water, river water, and tap water, with deionized (DI) water as control. At first, polypropylene (PP) was confirmed to be the major component of disposable face masks with Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. To monitor the release rate of PP from masks, a silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-based surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) method was established by employing the unique Raman fingerprint of PP at 2882 cm-1. During 30-d incubation in different waters, the release rates of PP, sizes of PP aggregates, length of fibers, and proportions of plastics smaller than 100 nm were in the order of soil water > river water > tap water > DI water. All the obtained PP exhibited significant toxicity in human lung cancer (A549) cells at concentrations of 70 mg/L for 48 h, and the ones obtained in soil water exhibited the most severe damage. Overall, this paper revealed that environmental waters themselves would worsen the adverse effects of disposable face masks, and the key compounds affecting the degradation of masks remain to be clarified. Such information, along with the established methods, could be beneficial in assessing the health risks of disposable face masks in different waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Sun
- CAS Key Lab of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215163, PR China.
| | - Yan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210098, PR China
| | - Huancai Yin
- CAS Key Lab of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215163, PR China
| | - Jian Yin
- CAS Key Lab of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215163, PR China; Jinan Guo Ke Medical Technology Development Co., Ltd, Jinan, 250001, PR China.
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Wang L, Pei W, Li J, Feng Y, Gao X, Jiang P, Wu Q, Li L. Microplastics induced apoptosis in macrophages by promoting ROS generation and altering metabolic profiles. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 271:115970. [PMID: 38218108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115970] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of Microplastics (MPs) in various environments documented in recent years has recently raised significant concerns about their toxic effects. While macrophages serve as the first line of defense against toxic substances and pathogens, the impact and mechanisms of microplastics on these immune cells remain unclear. This study aims to explore whether MPs induce macrophage apoptosis through the promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and alterations in metabolic profiles. The viability of RAW264.7 cells decreased as the concentration of 0.5 µm or 5 µm MPs ranged from 0.2 to 1.5 mg/mL, with a more pronounced effect observed in the 0.5 µm MPs group. Zebrafish exposed to 0.5 µm or 5 µm MPs at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL exhibited decreased macrophage abundance and increased apoptosis, accompanied by alterations in the expression of inflammatory and apoptosis-related genes. While 0.5 µm MPs were observed to enter macrophages, 5 µm MPs only adhered to the cell membrane surface. Both particle sizes induced ROS generation and disrupted cellular metabolism in RAW264.7 cells. Notably, macrophages exhibited a more pronounced response to 0.5 µm MPs, characterized by heightened ROS generation, increased secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, and a significant decrease in sphingolipid metabolism. These findings suggest that the adverse effects on macrophages are greater with 0.5 µm MPs compared to 5 µm MPs, possibly attributed to particle size effects. This study contributes additional evidence on the impact of MPs on human immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wenlong Pei
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jiacong Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yiming Feng
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xingsu Gao
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Qian Wu
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Lei Li
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Hu C, Yang S, Zhang T, Ge Y, Chen Z, Zhang J, Pu Y, Liang G. Organoids and organoids-on-a-chip as the new testing strategies for environmental toxicology-applications & advantages. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 184:108415. [PMID: 38309193 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108415] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
An increasing number of harmful environmental factors are causing serious impacts on human health, and there is an urgent need to accurately identify the toxic effects and mechanisms of these harmful environmental factors. However, traditional toxicity test methods (e.g., animal models and cell lines) often fail to provide accurate results. Fortunately, organoids differentiated from stem cells can more accurately, sensitively and specifically reflect the effects of harmful environmental factors on the human body. They are also suitable for specific studies and are frequently used in environmental toxicology nowadays. As a combination of organoids and organ-on-a-chip technology, organoids-on-a-chip has great potential in environmental toxicology. It is more controllable to the physicochemical microenvironment and is not easy to be contaminated. It has higher homogeneity in the size and shape of organoids. In addition, it can achieve vascularization and exchange the nutrients and metabolic wastes in time. Multi-organoids-chip can also simulate the interactions of different organs. These advantages can facilitate better function and maturity of organoids, which can also make up for the shortcomings of common organoids to a certain extent. This review firstly discussed the limitations of traditional toxicology testing platforms, leading to the introduction of new platforms: organoids and organoids-on-a-chip. Next, the applications of different organoids and organoids-on-a-chip in environmental toxicology were summarized and prospected. Since the advantages of the new platforms have not been sufficiently considered in previous literature, we particularly emphasized them. Finally, this review also summarized the opportunities and challenges faced by organoids and organoids-on-a-chip, with the expectation that readers will gain a deeper understanding of their value in the field of environmental toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyu Hu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China; Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215163, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China; Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215163, China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China; Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215163, China
| | - Yiling Ge
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China; Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215163, China
| | - Zaozao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China; Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215163, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, China.
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Yan L, Yao X, Wang P, Zhao C, Zhang B, Qiu L. Effect of polypropylene microplastics on virus resistance in spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123054. [PMID: 38043770 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a hot issue of global concern. Polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) age quickly in the marine environment and break down into smaller particles because of their relatively low temperature resistance, poor ultraviolet resistance, and poor antioxidant capacity, making them one of the major pollutants in the ocean. We assessed whether long-term exposure to micron-sized PP-MPs influences fish susceptibility to viral diseases. We found that exposure to PP-MPs (1-6 μm and 10-30 μm) at concentrations of 500 and 5000 μg/L resulted in uptake into spleen and kidney tissues of Lateolabrax maculatus. Increased activation of melanomacrophage centers was visible in histopathological sections of spleen from fish exposed to PP-MPs, and greater deterioration was observed in the spleen of fish infected by largemouth bass ulcerative syndrome virus after PP-MPs exposure. Additionally, exposure to PP-MPs led to significant cytotoxicity and a negative impact on the antiviral ability of cells. PP-MPs exposure had inhibitory or toxic effects on the immune system in spotted sea bass, which accelerated virus replication in vivo and decreased the expression of the innate immune- and acquired immune related genes in spleen and kidney tissues, thus increasing fish susceptibility to viral diseases. These results indicate that the long-term presence of micron-sized PP-MPs might impact fish resistance to disease, thereby posing a far-reaching problem for marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Yan
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yao
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Lihua Qiu
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Fishery Science, Beijing, China.
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Zhou H, Shi S, You Q, Zhang K, Chen Y, Zheng D, Sun J. Polyethylene Terephthalate Hydrolases in Human Gut Microbiota and Their Implications for Human Health. Microorganisms 2024; 12:138. [PMID: 38257965 PMCID: PMC10820491 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010138] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), primarily utilized for food and beverage packaging, consistently finds its way into the human gut, thereby exerting adverse effects on human health. PET hydrolases, critical for the degradation of PET, have been predominantly sourced from environmental microbial communities. Given the fact that the human gut harbors a vast and intricate consortium of microorganisms, inquiry into the presence of potential PET hydrolases within the human gut microbiota becomes imperative. In this investigation, we meticulously screened 22,156 homologous sequences that could potentially encode PET hydrolases using the hidden Markov model (HMM) paradigm, drawing from 4984 cultivated genomes of healthy human gut bacteria. Subsequently, we methodically validated the hydrolytic efficacy of five selected candidate PET hydrolases on both PET films and powders composed of micro-plastics (MPs). Notably, our study also unveiled the influence of both diverse PET MP powders and their resultant hydrolysates on the modulation of cytokine expression in macrophages. In summary, our research underscores the ubiquitous prevalence and considerable potential of the human gut microbiota in PET hydrolysis. Furthermore, our study significantly contributes to the holistic evaluation of the potential health hazards posed by PET MPs to human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heqi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
| | - Songbiao Shi
- South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China;
| | - Qiuhong You
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
| | - Kaikai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
| | - Yuchuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
| | - Dekai Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
| | - Jian Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; (H.Z.); (Q.Y.); (K.Z.); (Y.C.); (D.Z.)
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Ali N, Katsouli J, Marczylo EL, Gant TW, Wright S, Bernardino de la Serna J. The potential impacts of micro-and-nano plastics on various organ systems in humans. EBioMedicine 2024; 99:104901. [PMID: 38061242 PMCID: PMC10749881 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104901] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans are exposed to micro-and-nano plastics (MNPs) through various routes, but the adverse health effects of MNPs on different organ systems are not yet fully understood. This review aims to provide an overview of the potential impacts of MNPs on various organ systems and identify knowledge gaps in current research. The summarized results suggest that exposure to MNPs can lead to health effects through oxidative stress, inflammation, immune dysfunction, altered biochemical and energy metabolism, impaired cell proliferation, disrupted microbial metabolic pathways, abnormal organ development, and carcinogenicity. There is limited human data on the health effects of MNPs, despite evidence from animal and cellular studies. Most of the published research has focused on specific types of MNPs to assess their toxicity, while other types of plastic particles commonly found in the environment remain unstudied. Future studies should investigate MNPs exposure by considering realistic concentrations, dose-dependent effects, individual susceptibility, and confounding factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurshad Ali
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, London, SW7 2AZ, UK; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, 3114, Bangladesh.
| | - Jenny Katsouli
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Emma L Marczylo
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK; Toxicology Department, Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Timothy W Gant
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK; Toxicology Department, Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Stephanie Wright
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jorge Bernardino de la Serna
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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50
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Baysal A, Soyocak A, Saygin H, Saridag AM. Exposure to phagolysosomal simulated fluid altered the cytotoxicity of PET micro(nano)plastics to human lung epithelial cells. Toxicol Mech Methods 2024; 34:72-97. [PMID: 37697451 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2023.2256847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of micro(nano)plastics into various environmental and biological settings influences their physicochemical and toxic behavior. Simulated body fluids are appropriate media for understanding the degradation, stability, and interaction with other substances of any material in the human body. When the particles enter the human body via inhalation, which is one of the avenues for micro(nano)plastics, they first come into contact with the lung lining fluid under neutral conditions and then are phagocytosed under acidic conditions to be removed. Therefore, it is important to examine the physicochemical transformation and toxicity characteristics after interaction with phagolysosomal simulant fluid (PSF). Here, we focused on exploring how the physicochemical differences (e.g. surface chemistry, elemental distribution, and surface charge) of micro(nano)plastics under pH 4.5 phagolysosome conditions impact cytotoxicity and the oxidative characteristics of lung epithelia cells. The cytotoxicity of lung epithelia cells to those treated with PSF and non-treated micro(nano)plastics was tested by various viability indicators including cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), MTT, and LDH. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity background was examined through the oxidative processes (e.g. reactive oxygen species, antioxidant, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and reduced glutathione). The results showed that all tested surface physicochemical characteristics were significantly influenced by the phagolysosome conditions. The staged responses were observed with the treatment duration, and significant changes were calculated in carbonyl, carbon-nitrogen, and sulfonyl groups. Moreover, the negativity of the zeta potentials declined between exposure of 2-40 h and then increased at 80 h compared to control owing to the chemical functional groups and elemental distribution of the plastic particles. The tested viability indicators showed that the micro(nano)plastics treated with PSF were cytotoxic to the lung epithelia cells compared to non-treated micro(nano)plastics, and SOD was the dominant enzyme triggering cytotoxicity due to the particle degradation and instability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Baysal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Letters, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, Turkey
| | - Ahu Soyocak
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasan Saygin
- Application and Research Center for Advanced Studies, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul Turkey
| | - Ayse Mine Saridag
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
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