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Soininen T, Uurasjärvi E, Hämäläinen L, Huusari N, Feodoroff J, Moshnikoff J, Niiranen E, Feodoroff P, Mustonen T, Koistinen A. Microplastics in Arctic waters of the Finnish Sámi area. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 940:173666. [PMID: 38823697 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
We explored the presence of microplastics in the Finnish Arctic Sámi home area. A dialogue between Indigenous knowledge and scientific field work produced data about microplastics in remote wilderness aquatic ecosystems. Methods included geographical Indigenous knowledge analysis, water sampling with fraction filtration, and imaging Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The MPs found were small; the mean particle size was 126 ± 121 μm. Particle concentrations of MPs in freshwater and marine samples varied between 45 and 423 MPs m-3 and the most common polymer types were polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. In conclusion, because microplastics are present even in the wilderness areas, their abundance should be monitored to assess plastic pollution in the relatively pristine Arctic environments. Sámi Indigenous knowledge proved to be a beneficial and important initiator, because locals recognize the possible sources and transport pathways of plastic litter, and practical sampling sites in the complex freshwater systems of the area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuomo Soininen
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
| | - Emilia Uurasjärvi
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Arto Koistinen
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
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2
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Wang D, Xiong F, Wu L, Liu Z, Xu K, Huang J, Liu J, Ding Q, Zhang J, Pu Y, Sun R. A progress update on the biological effects of biodegradable microplastics on soil and ocean environment: A perfect substitute or new threat? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118960. [PMID: 38636648 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Conventional plastics are inherently difficult to degrade, causing serious plastic pollution. With the development of society, biodegradable plastics (BPs) are considered as an alternative to traditional plastics. However, current research indicated that BPs do not undergo complete degradation in natural environments. Instead, they may convert into biodegradable microplastics (BMPs) at an accelerated rate, thereby posing a significant threat to environment. In this paper, the definition, application, distribution, degradation behaviors, bioaccumulation and biomagnification of BPs were reviewed. And the impacts of BMPs on soil and marine ecosystems, in terms of physicochemical property, nutrient cycling, microorganisms, plants and animals were comprehensively summarized. The effects of combined exposure of BMPs with other pollutants, and the mechanism of ecotoxicity induced by BMPs were also addressed. It was found that BMPs reduced pH, increased DOC content, and disrupted the nitrification of nitrogen cycle in soil ecosystem. The shoot dry weight, pod number and root growth of soil plants, and reproduction and body length of soil animals were inhibited by BMPs. Furthermore, the growth of marine plants, and locomotion, body length and survival of marine animals were suppressed by BMPs. Additionally, the ecotoxicity of combined exposure of BMPs with other pollutants has not been uniformly concluded. Exposure to BMPs induced several types of toxicity, including neurotoxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, reproductive toxicity, immunotoxicity and genotoxicity. The future calls for heightened attention towards the regulation of the degradation of BPs in the environment, and pursuit of interventions aimed at mitigating their ecotoxicity and potential health risks to human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daqin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lingjie Wu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Kai Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiawei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jinyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qin Ding
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Rongli Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Labor and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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3
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Valentine K, Hughes C, Boxall A. Plastic Litter Emits the Foraging Infochemical Dimethyl Sulfide after Submersion in Freshwater Rivers. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 38661488 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is widespread throughout aquatic environments globally, with many organisms known to interact with and ingest plastic. In marine environments, microbial biofilms that form on plastic surfaces can produce the odorous compound dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is a known foraging cue. This has been shown to increase the ingestion of plastic by some invertebrates and therefore act as a biological factor which influences the risks of plastic to marine ecosystems. In freshwater however, the production of DMS has been largely overlooked, despite the known sensitivity of some freshwater species to this compound. To address this gap, the present study analyzed the production of DMS by biofilms which formed on low-density polyethylene and polylactic acid films after 3 and 6 weeks of submersion in either a rural or an urban United Kingdom river. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, the production of DMS by these biofilms was consistently identified. The amount of DMS produced varied significantly across river locations and materials, with surfaces in the urban river generally producing a stronger signal and plastics producing up to seven times more DMS than glass control surfaces. Analysis of biofilm weight and photosynthetic pigment content indicated differences in biofilm composition across conditions and suggested that DMS production was largely driven by nonphotosynthetic taxa. For the first time this work has documented the production of DMS by plastic litter after submersion in freshwater rivers. Further work is now needed to determine if, as seen in marine systems, this production of DMS can encourage the interaction of freshwater organisms with plastic litter and therefore operate as a biological risk factor in the impacts of plastic on freshwater environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-12. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katey Valentine
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- BeZero Carbon, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Hughes
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair Boxall
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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4
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Bocci V, Galafassi S, Levantesi C, Crognale S, Amalfitano S, Congestri R, Matturro B, Rossetti S, Di Pippo F. Freshwater plastisphere: a review on biodiversity, risks, and biodegradation potential with implications for the aquatic ecosystem health. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1395401. [PMID: 38699475 PMCID: PMC11064797 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1395401] [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: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The plastisphere, a unique microbial biofilm community colonizing plastic debris and microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments, has attracted increasing attention owing to its ecological and public health implications. This review consolidates current state of knowledge on freshwater plastisphere, focussing on its biodiversity, community assembly, and interactions with environmental factors. Current biomolecular approaches revealed a variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic taxa associated with plastic surfaces. Despite their ecological importance, the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria and mobile genetic elements (i.e., antibiotic resistance genes) raises concerns for ecosystem and human health. However, the extent of these risks and their implications remain unclear. Advanced sequencing technologies are promising for elucidating the functions of plastisphere, particularly in plastic biodegradation processes. Overall, this review emphasizes the need for comprehensive studies to understand plastisphere dynamics in freshwater and to support effective management strategies to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on freshwater resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Bocci
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina Levantesi
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Crognale
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Amalfitano
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberta Congestri
- Laboratory of Biology of Algae, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruna Matturro
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Rossetti
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Pippo
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
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5
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Zhou Z, Tang J, Tang K, An M, Liu Z, Wu Z, Cao X, He C. Selective enrichment of bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in microplastic biofilms and their potential hazards in coral reef ecosystems. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141309. [PMID: 38281603 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141309] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics become hotspots for bacteria to trigger a series of ecological effects, but few studies have focused on the potential impacts of microplastic biofilms in coral reef ecosystems. Here, we measured the bacterial communities and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the seawater and microplastic biofilms. Results showed that microbial biofilms were formed on the surface of microplastics. The alpha diversity of the bacterial community in the microplastic biofilms was lower than that in the seawater, and the bacterial communities were distinct between the two. Further analysis revealed that several bacteria in the microplastic biofilms carried ARGs, and the proportion of which was correlated to the concentration of antibiotics in the seawater. Specifically, Vibrio was positively correlated to sul1 in the microplastic biofilms under higher concentrations of sulfonamides. Pathway analysis reflected significant overrepresentation of human disease related pathways in the bacterial community of microplastic biofilms. These results suggest that the microplastic biofilms could selectively enrich bacteria from the reef environments, causing the development of ARGs under antibiotic driving. This may pose a serious threat to coral reef ecosystems and human health. Our study provides new insights into the ecological impacts of microplastic biofilms in coral reef ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China.
| | - Jia Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Kai Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Mingxun An
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zhaoqun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Zhongjie Wu
- Hainan Academy of Ocean and Fisheries Sciences, Haikou 571126, China.
| | - Xiaocong Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; Hainan Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Haikou 571126, China
| | - Chunlong He
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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Doytchinov VV, Peykov S, Dimov SG. Study of the Bacterial, Fungal, and Archaeal Communities Structures near the Bulgarian Antarctic Research Base "St. Kliment Ohridski" on Livingston Island, Antarctica. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:278. [PMID: 38398787 PMCID: PMC10890693 DOI: 10.3390/life14020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
As belonging to one of the most isolated continents on our planet, the microbial composition of different environments in Antarctica could hold a plethora of undiscovered species with the potential for biotechnological applications. This manuscript delineates our discoveries after an expedition to the Bulgarian Antarctic Base "St. Kliment Ohridski" situated on Livingston Island, Antarctica. Amplicon-based metagenomics targeting the 16S rRNA genes and ITS2 region were employed to assess the metagenomes of the bacterial, fungal, and archaeal communities across diverse sites within and proximal to the research station. The predominant bacterial assemblages identified included Oxyphotobacteria, Bacteroidia, Gammaprotobacteria, and Alphaprotobacteria. A substantial proportion of cyanobacteria reads were attributed to a singular uncultured taxon within the family Leptolyngbyaceae. The bacterial profile of a lagoon near the base exhibited indications of penguin activity, characterized by a higher abundance of Clostridia, similar to lithotelm samples from Hannah Pt. Although most fungal reads in the samples could not be identified at the species level, noteworthy genera, namely Betamyces and Tetracladium, were identified. Archaeal abundance was negligible, with prevalent groups including Woesearchaeales, Nitrosarchaeum, Candidatus Nitrosopumilus, and Marine Group II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesselin V Doytchinov
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Slavil Peykov
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Svetoslav G Dimov
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
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7
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Xu C, Hu C, Lu J, Yang T, Shen C, Li F, Wang J. Lake plastisphere as a new biotope in the Anthropocene: Potential pathogen colonization and distinct microbial functionality. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132693. [PMID: 37804763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132693] [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] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The not-homogenous microplastics (MPs) distribution in freshwaters results in distinct microbial communities. Yet knowledge regarding plastisphere in metabolic pathways and element cycling behaviors remains limited. In this study, we collected MPs from 15 sampling sites in the Taihu Lake in China, and found that MPs were widely distributed in this freshwater lake, and dominantly composed of fibrous polyethylene terephthalate. Based on the metagenomic analysis, we found that MPs were colonized by Bacteroidia, Alpha-Proteobacteria, and Bacilli as a filter, but depleted in Verrucomicrobiae. Potential pathogens of plant eudicots and monocots were significantly enriched in plastisphere. Predicted functional profiles involved in the metabolism of other amino acids, biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites, and glycan biosynthesis and metabolism were overrepresented in plastisphere. Regarding elemental cycling, functional genes related to nitrogen fixation and nitrification showed 39.6% and 67.5% decline in plastisphere, whereas the genes involved in denitrification and nitrate reduction were significantly enriched. For sulfur cycles, the plastisphere exhibited higher sulfate reduction and sulfur oxidation system activities. Additionally, the taxonomic compositions and predicted functions in the plastispheres were mainly driven by the stochastic processes, while the deterministic processes were more important for the planktonic communities. The distinctions in the microbial composition, the predicted functionality, and the underly mechanisms between plastisphere and planktonic communities illustrated the unique ecology of the new anthropogenic-related plastisphere ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenye Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Chun Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jiawei Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Tong Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Chensi Shen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Fang Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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Zhang W, Bhagwat G, Palanisami T, Liang S, Wan W, Yang Y. Lacustrine plastisphere: Distinct succession and assembly processes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities and role of site, time, and polymer types. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 248:120875. [PMID: 37992636 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120875] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics as a carrier can promote microbial diffusion, potentially influencing the ecological functions of microbial communities in aquatic environments. However, our understanding of the assembly mechanism of microbial communities on different microplastic polymers in freshwater lakes during succession is still insufficient, especially for the eukaryotes. Here, the colonization time, site, and polymer types of microplastics were comprehensively considered to investigate the composition and assembly of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities and their driving factors during the lacustrine plastisphere formation. Results showed that the particle-associated microorganisms in water were the main source of the plastisphere prokaryotes, while the free-living microorganisms in water mainly accounted for the plastisphere eukaryotes. The response of prokaryotic communities to different microplastic polymers was stronger than eukaryotic communities. The assembly of plastisphere prokaryotic communities was dominated by homogenizing processes (mainly homogenous selection), while the assembly of eukaryotic communities was dominated by differentiating processes (mainly dispersal limitation). Colonization time was an important factor affecting the composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities during the formation of the plastisphere. The Chao1 richness of prokaryotic communities in the plastisphere increased with the increase of colonization time, whereas the opposite was true in eukaryotic communities. This differential response of species diversity and composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities in the plastisphere during dynamic succession could lead to their distinct assembly processes. Overall, the results suggest that distinct assembly of microbial communities in the plastisphere may depend more on specific microbial sub-communities and colonization time than polymer types and colonization site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Geetika Bhagwat
- Environmental Plastic and Innovation Cluster, Global Innovation Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials, The University of Newcastle, 2308, NSW, Australia
| | - Thava Palanisami
- Environmental Plastic and Innovation Cluster, Global Innovation Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials, The University of Newcastle, 2308, NSW, Australia
| | - Shuxin Liang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China; School of Ecology and Environment, Tibet University, Lhasa 850000, China
| | - Wenjie Wan
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan 430074, China.
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9
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Jiang C, Almuhtaram H, McKie MJ, Andrews RC. Assessment of Biofilm Growth on Microplastics in Freshwaters Using a Passive Flow-Through System. TOXICS 2023; 11:987. [PMID: 38133388 PMCID: PMC10748376 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11120987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms that colonize on the surface of microplastics (MPs) in freshwaters may pose a potential health risk. This study examined factors that influence MP-associated biofilm growth, including polymer type, degree of weathering, and source water quality. Weathered MPs produced in-lab were employed in biofilm trials conducted on site using a passive flow-through system with raw water at drinking water treatment facility intakes. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was used to quantify biofilm abundance; biofilm composition was assessed via metagenomic sequencing. Biofilm growth was observed on all polymer types examined and most prevalent on polyvinyl chloride (PVC), where ATP levels were 6 to 12 times higher when compared to other polymers. Pathogen-containing species including Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli were present on all polymers with relative abundance up to 13.7%. S. enterica was selectively enriched on weathered MPs in specific water matrices. These findings support the need to research the potential accumulation of pathogenic organisms on microplastic surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Husein Almuhtaram
- Department of Civil and Mineral Engineering, University of Toronto, 35 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 1A4, Canada
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10
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Yang Y, Zhou J, Shi D, Yang Z, Zhou S, Yang D, Chen T, Li J, Li H, Jin M. Landscape of antibiotic resistance genes and bacterial communities in groundwater on the Tibetan Plateau, and distinguishing their difference with low-altitude counterparts. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132300. [PMID: 37595466 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132300] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Groundwater is a vital source of drinking water for Tibetans. Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and bacterial communities in groundwater on the Tibetan Plateau remain unclear. Furthermore, the characterization of their differences between high-altitude and low-altitude groundwater is still unrevealed. Herein, 32 groundwater samples were collected on the plateau, and intra- and extracellular ARGs (iARGs and eARGs), and bacterial communities were characterised through qPCR assays to 19 ARGs and 16S rRNA sequencing. It showed top four abundant intra- and extracellular last-resort ARGs (LARGs) were blaOXA-48, mcr-1, vanA, and vanB, whereas dominant common ARGs (CARGs) were tetA and ermB, respectively. CARGs had higher abundances than LARGs, and iARGs were more frequently detected than eARGs. Proteobacteria, an invasive resident phylum, and Firmicutes dominated eDNA release. Network analysis revealed all observed LARGs co-occurred with pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria. Community diversity was significantly associated with longitude and elevation, while nitrate correlated with ARGs. Comparative analysis demonstrated eARG frequencies and abundances were higher at high altitudes than at low altitudes. Additionally, Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas specifically dominated at high altitudes. This study reveals the widespread prevalence of ARGs, particularly LARGs, in groundwater on the less-disturbed Tibetan Plateau and underlines the potential risks associated with the LARG-carrying bacteria. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), which are defined as emerging environmental contaminants, are becoming a global concern due to their ability to confer antibiotic resistance to pathogens. Our findings highlight the prevalence of ARGs, particularly LARGs, in groundwater on the Tibetan Plateau, and the possibility that naturally-occurring pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria carry multiple LARGs. In addition, we further reveal differences in the distribution of ARGs and bacterial community between high-altitude and low-altitude groundwater. Collectively, our findings offer an important insight into the potential public risks related to groundwater on the Tibetan Plateau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidi Yang
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jiake Zhou
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Danyang Shi
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zhongwei Yang
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Shuqing Zhou
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Dong Yang
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Tianjiao Chen
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Junwen Li
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Haibei Li
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China.
| | - Min Jin
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Environmental & Operational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Risk Assessment and Control for Environment & Food Safety, Tianjin 300050, China.
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11
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Zheng Z, Huang Y, Liu L, Wang L, Tang J. Interaction between microplastic biofilm formation and antibiotics: Effect of microplastic biofilm and its driving mechanisms on antibiotic resistance gene. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132099. [PMID: 37517232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
As two pollutants with similar transport pathways, microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics (ATs) inevitably co-exist in water environments, and their interaction has become a topic of intense research interest for scholars over the past few years. This paper comprehensively and systematically reviews the current interaction between MPs and ATs, in particular, the role played by biofilm developed MPs (microplastic biofilm). A summary of the formation process of microplastic biofilm and its unique microbial community structure is presented in the paper. The formation of microplastic biofilm can enhance the adsorption mechanisms of ATs on primary MPs. Moreover, microplastic biofilm system is a diverse and vast reservoir of genetic material, and this paper reviews the mechanisms by which microplastics with biofilm drive the production of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and the processes that selectively enrich for more ARGs. Meanwhile, the enrichment of ARGs may lead to the development of microbial resistance and the gradual loss of the antimicrobial effect of ATs. The transfer pathways of ARGs affected by microplastic biofilm are outlined, and ARGs dependent transfer of antibiotic resistance bacteria (ARB) is mainly through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Furthermore, the ecological implications of the interaction between microplastic biofilm and ATs and perspectives for future research are reviewed. This review contributes to a new insight into the aquatic ecological environmental risks and the fate of contaminants (MPs, ATs), and is of great significance for controlling the combined pollution of these two pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yao Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, People's Republic of China
| | - Linan Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Lan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jingchun Tang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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12
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Sun Y, Wu M, Zang J, Du L, Huang M, Chen C, Wang J. Plastisphere microbiome: Methodology, diversity, and functionality. IMETA 2023; 2:e101. [PMID: 38868423 PMCID: PMC10989970 DOI: 10.1002/imt2.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Broad topics of the plastisphere in various environments are reviewed, including its methodologies, diversity, functionality, and outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanze Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental SciencesChina Agricultural UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Mochen Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental SciencesChina Agricultural UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jingxi Zang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental SciencesChina Agricultural UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Linna Du
- College of Advanced Materials EngineeringJiaxing Nanhu UniverisityJiaxingChina
| | - Muke Huang
- China International Engineering Consulting CorporationBeijingChina
| | - Cheng Chen
- China International Engineering Consulting CorporationBeijingChina
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental SciencesChina Agricultural UniversityBeijingChina
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13
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Xiong X, Gao L, Chen C, Zhu K, Luo P, Li L. The microplastics exposure induce the kidney injury in mice revealed by RNA-seq. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 256:114821. [PMID: 36989554 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) may pollute drinking water, accumulate in the food chain, and release toxic chemicals that may cause a variety of diseases. The detrimental effects of MPs on kidney injury and fibrosis under long-term accumulation have not been fully documented. In this study, mice were exposed to MPs with three different diameters (80 nm, 0.5 µm, and 5 µm) to investigate the detrimental influences of MPs on the kidney. The results showed that MPs of different diameters caused varying degrees of injury to the murine kidney. MPs exposure can induce an inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis in the kidney and induce kidney injury, which ultimately promotes kidney fibrosis. Furthermore, transcriptome data revealed that chronic exposure to MPs could alter the expressions of multiple genes related to immune response (80 nm) and circadian rhythm (0.5 µm, and 5 µm). Overall, our data provide new evidence and potential research for investigating the harm of MPs to kidney of mammals and even humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Xiong
- Department of Urology, Wuhan Third Hospital, Medical School of Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Likun Gao
- Department of Pathology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, the Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Urology, Wuhan Third Hospital, Medical School of Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Kai Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Pengcheng Luo
- Department of Urology, Wuhan Third Hospital, Medical School of Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430060, China.
| | - Lili Li
- Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.
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14
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Gosavi SM, Phuge SK. First report on microplastics contamination in a meteorite impact Crater Lake from India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:64755-64770. [PMID: 37079229 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27074-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a worldwide concern affecting all environmental matrices, including pristine lakes. Lentic lakes operate as a sink for microplastics (MPs), which interfere with a biogeochemical cycle and, therefore, deserve immediate attention. We present a comprehensive assessment of MPs contamination in the sediment and surface water of a geo-heritage site, Lonar lake (India). It is the third largest natural saltwater lake and only basaltic crater in the world formed by meteoric impact around 52,000 years ago. Mean MPs abundance in lakeshore sediment and surface water was 14.44 particles/kg and 2.66 particles/L, respectively. Small-sized MPs dominate the hypersaline region of the lake. Transparent and green fragments and filaments morphotypes were abundant. Most of the MPs in Lonar lake were secondary in origin. FTIR-ATR analysis revealed 16 types of polymers in the lake, of which polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyester were the most common. The overall pollution load index (PLI) for Lonar lake sediment and water was 1.39 and 2.58, respectively. Although all sampling stations had significant MPs pollution (PLI > 1), there was noticeable station-specific variability, which could be linked to anthropogenic activities. Irresponsible tourist behavior and religious activities, coupled with poor waste management are the leading causes of MPs contamination in the lake. The current work fills a gap in the investigation of MP pollution in a crater lake formed by a meteorite impact by being the first to provide a precise estimate of the MPs contamination in the Lonar lake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin M Gosavi
- Department of Zoology, Maharashtra College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Samadhan K Phuge
- Department of Zoology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Education and Extension, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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15
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Citterich F, Lo Giudice A, Azzaro M. A plastic world: A review of microplastic pollution in the freshwaters of the Earth's poles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161847. [PMID: 36709890 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is of great environmental concern. MPs have been found all over the Earth, including in the poles, which is indicative for the important threat they constitute. Yet, while the ocean is object of major interest, the data available in the literature about MP pollution in the freshwaters of the Earth's poles are still limited. Here, we review the current knowledge of MP pollution in the freshwaters of the Arctic, Antarctica and Third Pole, and we assess its ecological implications. This review highlights the presence of MPs in the lakes, rivers, snow, and glaciers of the investigated sites, questions the transport patterns through which MPs reach these remote areas, and illustrates that MP pollution is a real problem not only in marine systems, but also in the freshwater environments of the Earth's poles. MPs can indeed be ingested by animals and can physically damage their digestive tracts, as well as escalate the trophic levels. MPs can also alter microbial communities by serving as surfaces onto which microbes can grow and develop, and can enhance ice melting when trapped in glaciers. Hence, considered the limited data available, we encourage more research on the theme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Citterich
- Institute of Polar Sciences (ISP), National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Angelina Lo Giudice
- Institute of Polar Sciences (ISP), National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Azzaro
- Institute of Polar Sciences (ISP), National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
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16
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Dietrich M, Filippelli GM. Positive outcomes from U.S. lead regulations, continued challenges, and lessons learned for regulating emerging contaminants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:57178-57187. [PMID: 36897455 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26319-4] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Albeit slow and not without its challenges, lead (Pb) emissions and sources in the United States (U.S.) have decreased immensely over the past several decades. Despite the prevalence of childhood Pb poisoning throughout the twentieth century, most U.S. children born in the last two decades are significantly better off than their predecessors in regard to Pb exposure. However, this is not equal across demographic groups and challenges remain. Modern atmospheric emissions of Pb in the U.S. are nearly negligible since the banning of leaded gasoline in vehicles and regulatory controls on Pb smelting plants and refineries. This is evident in the rapid decrease of atmospheric Pb concentrations across the U.S. over the last four decades. One of the most significant remaining contributors to air Pb is aviation gasoline (avgas), which is minor compared to former Pb emissions. However, continual exposure risks to Pb exist in older homes and urban centers, where leaded paint and/or historically contaminated soils + dusts can still harm children. Thus, while effective in eliminating nearly all primary sources of Pb in the environment, the slow rate of U.S. Pb regulation has led to legacy sources of Pb in the environment. More proactive planning, communication, and research of commonly used emerging contaminants of concern that can persist in the environment long after their initial use (i.e., PFAS) should be prioritized so that the same mistakes are not made again.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dietrich
- Department of Earth Sciences, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- The Polis Center, IU Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Gabriel M Filippelli
- Department of Earth Sciences, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Environmental Resilience Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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17
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Miao L, Li W, Adyel TM, Yao Y, Deng Y, Wu J, Zhou Y, Yu Y, Hou J. Spatio-temporal succession of microbial communities in plastisphere and their potentials for plastic degradation in freshwater ecosystems. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 229:119406. [PMID: 36462255 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastics in the environment provide a new and unique habitat for microorganisms - known as the plastisphere. The microbial succession within the plastisphere and their potentials for plastic degradation in freshwater ecosystems is still not clear. Here, we investigated variation of microbial communities in plastisphere and their capacity to biodegrade non-biodegradable plastics (non-BPs), i.e., polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), and biodegradable plastics (BPs), i.e., polylactic acid+polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PLA+PBAT) for four-time periods (15, 30, 45, and 80 days) in three freshwaters. Results showed that the aging degree of plastics increased with succession of plastisphere, with higher degradation rates of BP blends than those of non-BPs. High-throughput sequencing from 112 biofilm samples revealed that bacterial and fungal community structure of the plastisphere were potentially affected by plastic types and gradually converge during biofilm succession. The plastisphere of BPs reached the mature phase more quickly than those of non-BPs and increased co-exclusion to complete for resources. Furthermore, ecological networks involving plastic aging indices, environmental factors and bacterial and fungal operational taxonomic units were established. Ecological networks revealed that BPs may pose the ability to attract and retain key microorganisms (of the orders Bacillales, Myxococcales and Xanthomonadales) that significantly influence community composition such that biodegradative functions were increased in freshwaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Wanyi Li
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Yu Yao
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ye Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, China.
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhou
- Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology Chinese academy of Science, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
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18
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Nguyen NHA, Marlita M, El-Temsah YS, Hrabak P, Riha J, Sevcu A. Early stage biofilm formation on bio-based microplastics in a freshwater reservoir. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159569. [PMID: 36272481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bio-based plastics (BP) produced from renewable biomass resources, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), is currently increasing in terms of both products and applications. However, their biodegradability and environmental fate are not yet fully understood, especially in freshwaters. Here, we present the results of an in-situ study in a freshwater reservoir, where we submerged HDPE, PLA and PHBV microscale BP (mBP) in dialysis bags to enable exchange of small organic and inorganic molecules, including nutrients, with the surrounding water. After one and two months, the bacterial biofilm that formed on each mBP was characterised by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. After two-months, Oxalobacteraceae, Pedosphaeraceae, Flavobacteriaceae (Flavobacterium) and Chitinophagaceae (Ferruginibacter) had increased by up to four times. Both these and other common members (≥1 % relative total biomass) of the microbial community were similarly abundant on all mBP. Low-abundance (0.3-1 %) bacterial taxa, however, were significantly more diverse and differed on each mBP. Notably, some low-abundance families and genera increased on specific materials, e.g. Sphingomonadaceae on HDPE, Sphingobacteriaceae on PHBV, Gemmatimonas and Crenothrix on PLA. Overall, abundant bacteria were regarded as a pioneering community, while low-abundance bacteria were more diverse and preferred mBP types in the early stages of biofilm formation on mBP. It could be influenced by the environmental conditions, where nutrient levels and low temperatures might shape the low-abundance of attached bacterial communities than the plastic material itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhung H A Nguyen
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
| | - Marlita Marlita
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Yehia S El-Temsah
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Centre for Biosafety, Postboks 6418, 9294 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Pavel Hrabak
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Riha
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Sevcu
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
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19
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Depta J, Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej P. The Phenomenon of Antibiotic Resistance in the Polar Regions: An Overview of the Global Problem. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:1979-1995. [PMID: 37034396 PMCID: PMC10081531 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s369023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance is a global problem in human and animal health. This leads to a reduction in the therapeutic effectiveness of the measures used so far and to the limitation of treatment options, which may pose a threat to human health and life. The problem of phenomenon of antibiotic resistance affects more and more the polar regions. This is due to the increase in tourist traffic and the number of people staying at research stations, unmodernised sewage systems in inhabited areas, as well as the migration of animals or the movement of microplastics, which may contain resistant bacteria. Research shows that the presence of antibiotic resistance genes is more dominant in zones of human and wildlife influence than in remote areas. In a polluted environment, there is evidence of a direct correlation between human activity and the spread and survival of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Attention should be paid to the presence of resistance to synthetic and semi-synthetic antibiotics in the polar regions, which is likely to be correlated with human presence and activity, and possible steps to be taken. We need to understand many more aspects of this, such as bacterial epigenetics and environmental stress, in order to develop effective strategies for minimizing the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Studying the diversity and abundance of antibiotic resistance genes in regions with less anthropogenic activity could provide insight into the diversity of primary genes and explain the historical evolution of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Depta
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-412, Poland
| | - Paulina Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-412, Poland
- Correspondence: Paulina Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej, Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-412, Poland, Tel +48 91 444 15 15, Email
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20
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Kim JS, Kim SH, Lee W, Seo CW, Lee JW, Park KH, Lim YW. Five Previously Unrecorded Fungal Species Isolated from Marine Plastic Wastes in South Korea. MYCOBIOLOGY 2022; 50:420-428. [PMID: 36721788 PMCID: PMC9848266 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2022.2152951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic wastes have a negative impact on marine environments; however, they can be used as carbon sources and habitats by certain microbes. Microbes in the marine plastisphere can migrate worldwide through the ocean and cause serious environmental problems when they encounter suitable environments. Therefore, efforts to investigate the microbes inhabiting the marine plastisphere are increasing. In the present study, fungal strains were isolated from plastic wastes buried in Korean sea sands and mudflats and identified using molecular and morphological analyses. Five species were identified that were previously unrecorded from South Korea: Cladosporium funiculosum, Neosetophoma poaceicola, Neosetophoma rosigena, Parasarocladium gamsii, and Trichoderma fomiticola. Their molecular phylogenies and morphological characteristics are described in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Seon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wonjun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Wan Seo
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun Won Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Hyeong Park
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Woon Lim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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21
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Chaudhary A, Dunn ST, Kelly J, Hoellein TJ. Plastic microbiome development in a freshwater ecosystem. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 848:157697. [PMID: 35914595 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To understand biological interactions of plastic litter in freshwater ecosystems, as well the potential effects of plastics on ecosystem processes, studies of the activity and composition of plastic-associated microbial communities are needed. The physical properties and chemical composition of plastic polymers are key components of plastic product design, and may also select for distinct microbial biofilms colonizing plastic litter. We monitored growth and succession of biofilm communities on plastic substrates of common morphotypes (i.e., hard, soft, foam, and film) and a natural surface (i.e., an unglazed ceramic tile) incubated in an urban stream. We measured biofilm biomass, metabolism, extracellular enzyme activity, and bacterial, fungal and algal community composition over four weeks during primary succession. Results demonstrated a general increase in biofilm biomass and enzymatic activity corresponding to carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism during biofilm development for all substrate types. We observed higher respiration rates and negative net ecosystem productivity on foam and tile surfaces in comparison to hard, soft and film plastic surfaces. Biofilm bacterial, fungal and algal assemblages showed few significant differences in composition among substrates. However, all microbial communities changed significantly in composition over time. While substrate type was not the major factor driving biofilm composition and activity, these data show plastic litter in streams is well colonized by an active and dynamic biofilm community. As plastic litter is increasing across all types of aquatic ecosystems, it should be considered a medium for biologically active organisms that contribute to key ecosystem processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adit Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America.
| | - Samuel T Dunn
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - John Kelly
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Timothy J Hoellein
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
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22
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Eronen-Rasimus EL, Näkki PP, Kaartokallio HP. Degradation Rates and Bacterial Community Compositions Vary among Commonly Used Bioplastic Materials in a Brackish Marine Environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:15760-15769. [PMID: 36269217 PMCID: PMC9671047 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c06280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution threatens both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. As a result of the pressures of replacing oil-based materials and reducing the accumulation of litter in the environment, the use of bioplastics is increasing, despite little being known about their accurate biodegradation in natural conditions. Here, we investigated the weight attrition and degradation behavior of four different bioplastic materials compared to conventional oil-based polyethylene during a 1-year in situ incubation in the brackish Baltic Sea and in controlled 1 month biodegradation experiments in the laboratory. Bacterial communities were also investigated to verify whether putative plastic-degrading bacteria are enriched on bioplastics. Poly-l-lactic acid showed no signs of degradation, whereas poly(3-hydroxybutyrate/3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHB/HV), plasticized starch (PR), and cellulose acetate (CA) degraded completely or almost completely during 1-year in situ incubations. In accordance, bacterial taxa potentially capable of using complex carbon substrates and belonging, e.g., to class Gammaproteobacteria were significantly enriched on PHB/HV, PR, and CA. An increase in gammaproteobacterial abundance was also observed in the biodegradation experiments. The results show substantial differences in the persistence and biodegradation rates among bioplastics, thus highlighting the need for carefully selecting materials for applications with risk of becoming marine litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eeva L. Eronen-Rasimus
- Department
of Microbiology, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
- Marine
Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
- E-mail:
| | - Pinja P. Näkki
- Marine
Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hermanni P. Kaartokallio
- Marine
Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Agnes Sjöbergin katu 2, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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Chaiyasat P, Kamlangmak N, Hangmi K, Rattanawongwiboon T, Chaiyasat A. Fabrication of cellulose-based particles/capsules using gamma radiation-initiated radical precipitation polymerization. INT J POLYM MATER PO 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00914037.2022.2132249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Preeyaporn Chaiyasat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Advanced Materials Design and Development (AMDD) Research Unit, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Netnapha Kamlangmak
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Kanokporn Hangmi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | | | - Amorn Chaiyasat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Advanced Materials Design and Development (AMDD) Research Unit, Rajamangala University of Technology, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
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24
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Hung CM, Chen CW, Huang CP, Hsieh SL, Dong CD. Ecological responses of coral reef to polyethylene microplastics in community structure and extracellular polymeric substances. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 307:119522. [PMID: 35640726 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The relationships and interactions between extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and microplastics (MPs) in coral reef ecosystems were symmetrically investigated. The current study aims to investigate the responses of scleractinian coral (Goniopora columna) to exposure of model MPs, exemplified by polyethylene (PE), in the size range of 40-48 μm as affected by MPs concentration of MP in the range between 0 and 300 mg L-1 for 14 days. The structure of EPS-associated microbial community was studied using a series of techniques including high-throughput sequencing of 16 S rRNA, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), hydrodynamic diameter, surface charge (via zeta potential), X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflectance‒Fourier transform infrared (ATR‒FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (FEEM) spectroscopy. Microbial interactions between PE-MPs and coral caused aggregation and formation of EPS matrix, which resulted in increase and decrease in the relative abundance of Donghicola (Proteobacteria phylum) and Marivita (Proteobacteria phylum) in PE-MP-associated EPS, respectively. Particle size, electrostatic interactions, and complexation with the functional groups of the EPS-based matrix affected the humification index. FEEM spectroscopy analyses suggested the presence of humic- and fulvic-like fluorophores in EPS and dissolved organic matter (DOM) in PE-MP-derived DOM. The findings provided insights into the potential environmental implications of coral-based EPS and co-existing microbial assemblages due to EPS-PE-MP-microbiome interactions throughout the dynamic PE-MP exposure process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Mao Hung
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Wen Chen
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Pao Huang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Shu-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Di Dong
- Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
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25
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Wang J, Peng C, Dai Y, Li Y, Jiao S, Ma X, Liu X, Wang L. Slower antibiotics degradation and higher resistance genes enrichment in plastisphere. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 222:118920. [PMID: 35964510 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly entering the urban aquatic ecosystems, and the environmental significance and health risks of plastisphere, a special biofilm on MPs, have received widespread attention. In this study, MPs of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and quartzite were incubated in an urban water environment, and the tetracycline (TC) degradation ability was compared. Approximatedly 24% of TC biodegraded in 28 d in the water-quartzite system, which is significantly higher than that in the water-PLA (17.3%) and water-PVC systems (16.7%). Re-incubation of microorganisms in biofilms affirmed that quartzite biofilm has a higher TC degradation capacity than the plastisphere. According to high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and metagenomic analysis, quartzite biofilm contained more abundant potential TC degrading bacteria, genes related to TC degradation (eutG, aceE, and DLAT), and metabolic pathways related to TC degradation. An oligotrophic environment on the quartzite surface might lead to the higher metabolic capacity of quartzite biofilm for unconventional carbons, e.g., TC. It is also found that, compared with quartzite biofilm, the distinct microbes in the plastisphere carried more antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Higher affinity of MPs surface to antibiotics may lead to higher antibiotics stress on the plastisphere, which further amplify the carrying capacity for ARGs of microorganisms in the plastisphere. Compared to the nondegradable PVC MPs, surface of the biodegradable PLA plastics harbored significantly higher amounts of biomass and ARGs. Compared to the mineral particles, the capability of plastisphere has lower ability to degrade unconventional carbon sources such as the refractory organic pollutants, due to the abundance of carbon sources (adsorbed organic carbon and endogenous organic carbon) on the MPs surface. Meanwhile, the stronger adsorption capacity for pollutants also leads to higher pollutant stress (such as antibiotic stress) in plastisphere, which in turn affects the microbiological characteristics of the plastisphere itself, such as carrying more ARGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
| | - Chu Peng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yexin Dai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
| | - Shipu Jiao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
| | - Xiaodong Ma
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Xianhua Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Liu Y, Cao W, Hu Y, Zhang J, Shen W. Horizontal and vertical distribution of microplastics in dam reservoir after impoundment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:154962. [PMID: 35378186 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In freshwater ecosystems, microplastics (MPs) are commonly found in reservoirs. However, limited information is available on the distribution of MPs in the reservoirs. In this study, we investigated the horizontal and vertical distribution characteristics of MPs in the Guanyingyan reservoir (the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, China) after impoundment and the influence of free-floating plant residues on the distribution of MPs. Results indicated that the MPs abundance in the horizontal distribution of the reservoir decreased significantly while the distance from the dam increased. The abundance of MPs in shoreline waters (average: 8.45 items L-1) was significantly higher than that in central waters (average: 4.80 items L-1). As for the vertical distribution, the percentages of fibers in the three water layers (surface, intermediate, and deep) have less variation when compared to other types of MPs. Besides, MPs who are less than 0.5 mm in size are the majority. With deeper underwater, there would be more MPs with particles smaller than 200 μm in size. At the same time, there would be fewer MPs with particles ranging from 200 to 500 μm in size. PS, PP, and PE are the main polymer types of surface water, while PVC, PE, and PET are the common type in deep water. In shoreline water, the dry weight of floating plant residues showed a positive correlation with microplastic abundance in different layers. As above said, this study confirmed that MPs in reservoirs after impoundment would tend to accumulate in the front section of the reservoir and the shoreline water. Besides, free-floating plant residues would accumulate in reservoirs, resulting in the sinking of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Weigang Cao
- Science and Technology Resource Coordination Center of Hanzhong, Hanzhong, Shaanxi 723000, PR China
| | - Yue Hu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Jie Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Weibo Shen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
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Bao R, Pu J, Xie C, Mehmood T, Chen W, Gao L, Lin W, Su Y, Lin X, Peng L. Aging of biodegradable blended plastic generates microplastics and attached bacterial communities in air and aqueous environments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 434:128891. [PMID: 35430459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The use of biodegradable plastics (BPs) has been widely promoted in recent years, but before their complete degradation, the phase of microplastics (MPs) is inevitable. However, little information concerning the production of MPs from blended polymers is available. This study aimed to explore the characteristics of MPs produced from blended plastics and the development of biofilms on plastic surfaces under long-term aging. Here, three blended materials (i.e., PBAT (53%)+PLA (10%)+Starch (20%), PBAT (80%)+Starch (20%), HDPE (60%)+CaCO3 (40%)) were aged for 90 days in air, deionized (DI) water and seawater. The results showed massive production of MPs (9653 ± 3920-20,348 ± 5857 items/g) from blended plastics accompanied by a large quantity of flocculent substances during 90 days aging period. Furthermore, the richness of bacteria communities on hydrophobic plastics (i.e., PBAT (53%)+PLA (10%)+Starch (20%), PBAT (80%)+Starch (20%)) was higher than hydrophilic plastics (i.e., HDPE (60%)+CaCO3 (40%)), and bacterial communities attached to blended plastics exhibited significantly variation with aging times. Overall, promoting the marketable application of blended plastics is risky if their environmental behavior is not effectively addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Bao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Jingrun Pu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Chaolin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Tariq Mehmood
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Liu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Wenlu Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Su
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Xubing Lin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China
| | - Licheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Forestry Environmental Processes and Ecological Regulation of Hainan Province (Hainan University), Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China; College of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan Province 570228, PR China.
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Peng C, Wang J, Liu X, Wang L. Differences in the Plastispheres of Biodegradable and Non-biodegradable Plastics: A Mini Review. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:849147. [PMID: 35547108 PMCID: PMC9082994 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.849147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a steady rise in the production and disposal of biodegradable plastics. Unlike the microorganisms present in the biofilms on non-biodegradable plastic surfaces (the “plastisphere”), the plastisphere of biodegradable plastic has not been well-characterized. As the polymer structure of biodegradable plastic has a higher microbial affinity than that of non-biodegradable plastic, their plastispheres are assumed to be different. This review summarizes the reported differences in microbial communities on the surface of biodegradable and non-biodegradable plastics, discusses the driving forces behind these differences, and discusses the potential environmental risks. Overall, the plastisphere biomass on the surface of non-biodegradable plastic was observed to be lower than that of biodegradable plastic. The community structure of microbes in both plastispheres was diverse, mainly due to the properties of the plastic surface, such as surface charge, hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, roughness, and bioavailability of polymer components for microbes. Further research should focus on developing biodegradable plastic that degrade faster in the environment, revealing the mechanism of enrichment of ARGs and potential pathogens on plastics, and understanding the potential influence of plastispheres on the evolution and selection of plastic-degrading microbial potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu Peng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianhua Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Kuśnierz M, Domańska M, Hamal K, Pera A. Application of Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge in a Conventional Wastewater Treatment Plant. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105985. [PMID: 35627522 PMCID: PMC9141865 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is often only at the operation stage of a wastewater treatment plant that there is a need to adjust the treatment process in terms of variable hydraulic capacity, increased pollutant load, high/low concentration of suspended biomass, or the unfavorable phenomenon of reduced sedimentation capacity of the activated sludge. One of the ways to improve the treatment process efficiency is to increase the biologically active surface by using bio-carriers in the form of fibers, materials, or bio-balls. This paper presents the results of a wastewater treatment plant operation during the period of six months after the implementation of the integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) technology. The research showed that microorganisms developed both in the activated sludge and on the fibers, positively influencing the activated sludge condition. During the start-up of the IFAS process, ciliates predominated over the other species. However, as oxygen content was high (2 mg/dm3 and more) and textile beds were used, the protozoan population developed intensively, and small metazoans became increasingly common. Throughout the research period, nitrifying and phosphorus-accumulating bacteria were observed both in the activated sludge and on the fibers. Between the 59th and 184th day of operation, numerous microorganisms were detected on the fibers and in the activated sludge, testifying to low biological oxygen demand, good aerobic conditions for nitrification, and long sludge age. However, the process seemed to break down after day 72, when the occurrence of metazoan led to reduced sludge production; after day 88, chemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids in the outflow increased, and oligochaetes and rotifers dominated the suspended sludge and fibers. Results also showed that the textile bed and low ammonia concentration became an excellent substrate for the development of Stentor sp. With regard to chemical and biological oxygen demand, total nitrogen- and total phosphorus-effluent concentrations were mostly within the legally permissible limits throughout the 184 days of operation.
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