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Xia Q, Wei Y, Hu LJ, Zeng FM, Chen YW, Xu D, Sun Y, Zhao LW, Li YF, Pang GH, Peng W, He M. Inhalation of Microplastics Induces Inflammatory Injuries in Multiple Murine Organs via the Toll-like Receptor Pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:18603-18618. [PMID: 39389766 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c06637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have detected microplastics (MPs) in human biological samples, such as lungs, alveolar lavage fluid, and thrombus. However, whether MPs induce health effects after inhalation are unclear. In this study, fluorescent polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) were found in the thymus, spleen, testes, liver, kidneys, and brain on day 1 or day 3 after one intratracheal instillation. Furthermore, mice showed inflammation in multiple organs, manifested as obvious infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages, increased Toll-like receptors (TLRs), myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), as well as proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β) in the lungs, thymus, spleen, liver, and kidneys after four intratracheal instillations of PS-MPs at once every 2 weeks. Hepatic and renal function indexes were also increased. Subsequently, the inflammatory response in multiple murine organs was significantly alleviated by TLR2 and TLR4 inhibitors. Unexpectedly, we did not find any elevated secretion of monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 or TNF-α by RAW264.7 macrophages in vitro. Thus, PS-MPs induced inflammatory injuries in multiple murine organs via the TLRs/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in vivo, but not macrophages in vitro. These results may provide theoretical support for healthy protection against PS-MPs and their environmental risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xia
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Wei
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Long-Ji Hu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Fan-Mei Zeng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Wei Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Lu-Wei Zhao
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Fei Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Guan-Hua Pang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Wen Peng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
| | - Miao He
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Damage Research and Assessment, Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
- Ministry of Education, China, Key Laboratory of Environmental Stress and Chronic Disease Control & Prevention (China Medical University), Shenyang 110122, P. R. China
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2
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Matias RS, Monteiro M, Sousa V, Pinho B, Guilhermino L, Valente LMP, Gomes S. A multiple biomarker approach to understand the effects of microplastics on the health status of European seabass farmed in earthen ponds on the NE Atlantic coast. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 263:120208. [PMID: 39442660 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.120208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2024] [Revised: 10/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquaculture environments is a growing concern due to their potential negative effects on fish health and, ultimately, on seafood safety. Earthen pond aquaculture, a prevalent aquaculture system worldwide, is typically located in coastal and estuarine areas thus vulnerable to MP contamination. The present study investigated the possible relation between MP levels of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) farmed in an earthen pond and its health status. More precisely, two groups of fish were established based on the lowest and highest number of MPs found collectively in their gastrointestinal tract (GIT), liver, and dorsal muscle: fish with ≤2 MP/g and fish with ≥4 MP/g. The intestinal integrity and oxidative stress biomarkers in the liver and dorsal muscle were evaluated in the established groups. No significant differences in the biometric and organosomatic parameters between groups were observed. The results indicated a significant increase in the number of acid goblet cells (GC) in the rectum of fish with higher MP levels (p = 0.016). Increased acid GC number may constitute a first defence strategy against foreign particles to protect the intestinal epithelium. No significant differences in oxidative stress biomarkers between the two fish groups were observed, namely in the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione S-transferase in the liver, or in lipid peroxidation levels in the liver and dorsal muscle. The overall results suggest that MP levels were possibly related to an intestinal response but its potential implications on the health status of pond-farmed seabass warrant further investigation. Monitoring MP occurrence across stages of aquaculture production could help to elucidate the potential threats of MPs to fish health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo S Matias
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Monteiro
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Sousa
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bia Pinho
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lúcia Guilhermino
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luisa M P Valente
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Gomes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
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3
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Zhang W, Tian D, Yu Y, Tong D, Zhou W, Yu Y, Lu L, Li W, Liu G, Shi W. Micro/nanoplastics impair the feeding of goldfish by disrupting the complicated peripheral and central regulation of appetite. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174112. [PMID: 38908581 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174112] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of plastic particles in water bodies poses a potential threat to aquatic species. Although numerous adverse effects of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have been documented, their effects on fish feeding, one of the most important behaviors of animals, are far from being fully understood. In this study, the effects of MPs and NPs (at environmentally realistic levels) on fish food consumption and feeding behavior were assessed using goldfish (Carassius auratus) and polystyrene (PS) particles as representatives. In addition, to reveal the potential mechanisms, the effects of MPs and NPs on peripheral and central regulation of appetite were evaluated by examining appetite-regulation related intestinal, serous, and hypothalamic parameters. The results obtained indicated that the 28-day MP- and NP-exposure significantly impaired goldfish feeding by disrupting peripheral and central appetite regulation. Based on differences observed in their effects on the abovementioned behavioral, histological, and physiological parameters, MPs and NPs may interfere with appetite regulation in a size-dependent manner. Blocking the gastrointestinal tract and causing histopathological and functional damage to inner organs may be the main routes through which MPs and NPs disrupt appetite regulation. Our findings suggested that plastic particles exposure may have far-reaching effects on fish species through impaired feeding, which warrants further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixia Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Dandan Tian
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yihan Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Difei Tong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Weishang Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yingying Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lingzheng Lu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Weifeng Li
- College of Marine Sciences, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Marine Biodiversity Conservation, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, PR China
| | - Guangxu Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Wei Shi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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4
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Li Y, Ye Y, Zhu X, Li S, Rihan N, Yao Z, Sun Z, Gao P, Zhao Y, Lai Q. Polystyrene nanoplastics induce apoptosis, histopathological damage, and glutathione metabolism disorder in the intestine of juvenile East Asian river prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176718. [PMID: 39366565 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2024] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are widely distributed in the aquatic environment and have become a global concern as a new type of pollutant. Many researchers have studied the physiological effects of NPs on aquatic organisms, but relatively little is known about their effects on intestinal immune function in crustaceans. Therefore, we used NPs concentrations of 0, 5, 10, 20, 40 mg/L for 28 days of stress, evaluated the effects of NPs exposure on intestinal cell apoptosis, histopathological damage, and glutathione (GSH) metabolism of juvenile East Asian river prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense). As NPs concentration increased, the contents of total GSH and oxidized glutathione decreased gradually (P < 0.05), the concentration of GSH first increased and then decreased (P < 0.05), and the activities of lysozyme, acid phosphatase, phenoloxidase, and alkaline phosphatase first increased and then decreased (P < 0.05). Additionally, intestinal tissue structure was damaged, and the apoptosis rate significantly increased (P < 0.05). The expression of intestinal autophagy genes (CTL, ALF, Crustin, ATG8, and BCL-2) increased at first and then decreased, the expression levels of TNF and Wnt4 significantly decreased, and the expression of Beclin significantly increased with increasing NPs concentration. We also found that AP-1 and PTEN were highly expressed in the hepatopancreas and were involved in intestinal immune responses. Our results showed that exposure to NPs may induce apoptosis of intestinal tissue cells, induce autophagy, and inhibit GSH metabolism, thereby reducing intestinal immune function of M. nipponense. These findings provide a reference for healthy aquaculture and ecological risk assessment of prawns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Li
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Yucong Ye
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhu
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Siwen Li
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Na Rihan
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zongli Yao
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Pengcheng Gao
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Yunlong Zhao
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Qifang Lai
- East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai 200090, China.
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5
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Banaee M, Multisanti CR, Impellitteri F, Piccione G, Faggio C. Environmental toxicology of microplastic particles on fish: A review. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 287:110042. [PMID: 39306266 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.110042] [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: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
The increase in plastic debris and its environmental impact has been a major concern for scientists. Physical destruction, chemical reactions, and microbial activity can degrade plastic waste into particles smaller than 5 mm, known as microplastics (MPs). MPs may eventually enter aquatic ecosystems through surface runoff. The accumulation of MPs in aquatic environments poses a potential threat to finfish, shellfish, and the ecological balance. This study investigated the effect of MP exposure on freshwater and marine fish. MPs could cause significant harm to fish, including physical damage, death, inflammation, oxidative stress, disruption of cell signalling and cellular biochemical processes, immune system suppression, genetic damage, and reduction in fish growth and reproduction rates. The activation of the detoxification system of fish exposed to MPs may be associated with the toxicity of MPs and chemical additives to plastic polymers. Furthermore, MPs can enhance the bioavailability of other xenobiotics, allowing these harmful substances to more easily enter and accumulate in fish. Accumulation of MPs and associated chemicals in fish can have adverse effects on the fish and humans who consume them, with these toxic substances magnifying as they move up the food chain. Changes in migration and reproduction patterns and disruptions in predator-prey relationships in fish exposed to MPs can significantly affect ecological dynamics. These interconnected changes can lead to cascading effects throughout aquatic ecosystems. Thus, implementing solutions like reducing plastic production, enhancing recycling efforts, using biodegradable materials, and improving waste management is essential to minimize plastic waste and its environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Banaee
- Aquaculture Department, Faculty of Natural Resources and the Environment, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Iran.
| | | | - Federica Impellitteri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy; Department of Eco-sustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy.
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6
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Wu XQ, Chen XM, Pan YY, Sun C, Tian JX, Qian AD, Niu XT, Kong YD, Li M, Wang GQ. Changes of intestinal barrier in the process of intestinal inflammation induced by Aeromonas hydrophila in snakehead (Channa argus). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 152:109775. [PMID: 39019126 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109775] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial intestinal inflammation frequently occurs in cultured fish. Nevertheless, research on intestinal barrier dysfunction in the process of intestinal inflammation is deficient. In this study, we explored the changes of intestinal inflammation induced by Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila) in snakehead and the relationship between intestinal barrier and inflammation. Snakehead [(13.05 ± 2.39) g] were infected via anus with A. hydrophila. Specimens were collected for analysis at 0, 1, 3, 7 and 21 d post-injection. The results showed that with the increase of exposure time, the hindgut underwent stages of normal function, damage, damage deterioration, repair and recovery. Relative to 0 d, the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in serum, and the expression of nod1, tlr1, tlr5, nf-κb, tnf-α and il-1β in intestine were significantly increased, and showed an upward then downward pattern over time. However, the expression of tlr2 and il-10 were markedly decreased, and showed the opposite trend. In addition, with the development of intestinal inflammation, the diversity and richness of species, and the levels of phylum and genus in intestine were obviously altered. The levels of trypsin, LPS, AMS, T-SOD, CAT, GPx, AKP, LZM and C3 in intestine were markedly reduced, and displayed a trend of first decreasing and then rebounding. The ultrastructure observation showed that the microvilli and tight junction structure of intestinal epithelial cells experienced normal function initially, then damage, and finally recovery over time. The expression of claudin-3 and zo-1 in intestine were significantly decreased, and showed a trend of first decreasing and then rebounding. Conversely, the expression of mhc-i, igm, igt and pigr in intestine were markedly increased, and displayed a trend of increasing first and then decreasing. The above results revealed the changes in intestinal barrier during the occurrence and development of intestinal inflammation, which provided a theoretical basis for explaining the relationship between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qin Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Xiu-Mei Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China.
| | - Yi-Yu Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Chuang Sun
- Fisheries Technology Extension Station of Baicheng, Jilin Province, Baicheng, 137000, China
| | - Jia-Xin Tian
- College of Life Sciences, Tonghua Normal University, Tonghua, 134002, China
| | - Ai-Dong Qian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Xiao-Tian Niu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Yi-di Kong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Gui-Qin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Key Laboratory for Animal Production, Product Quality and Safety of Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China.
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7
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Li H, Liu H, Bi L, Liu Y, Jin L, Peng R. Immunotoxicity of microplastics in fish. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 150:109619. [PMID: 38735599 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109619] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste degrades slowly in aquatic environments, transforming into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), which are subsequently ingested by fish and other aquatic organisms, causing both physical blockages and chemical toxicity. The fish immune system serves as a crucial defense against viruses and pollutants present in water. It is imperative to comprehend the detrimental effects of MPs on the fish immune system and conduct further research on immunological assessments. In this paper, the immune response and immunotoxicity of MPs and its combination with environmental pollutants on fish were reviewed. MPs not only inflict physical harm on the natural defense barriers like fish gills and vital immune organs such as the liver and intestinal tract but also penetrate cells, disrupting intracellular signaling pathways, altering the levels of immune cytokines and gene expression, perturbing immune homeostasis, and ultimately compromising specific immunity. Initially, fish exposed to MPs recruit a significant number of macrophages and T cells while activating lysosomes. Over time, this exposure leads to apoptosis of immune cells, a decline in lysosomal degradation capacity, lysosomal activity, and complement levels. MPs possess a small specific surface area and can efficiently bind with heavy metals, organic pollutants, and viruses, enhancing immune responses. Hence, there is a need for comprehensive studies on the shape, size, additives released from MPs, along with their immunotoxic effects and mechanisms in conjunction with other pollutants and viruses. These studies aim to solidify existing knowledge and delineate future research directions concerning the immunotoxicity of MPs on fish, which has implications for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqi Li
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Huanpeng Liu
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Liuliu Bi
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yinai Liu
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Libo Jin
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Renyi Peng
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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8
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Del Piano F, Almroth BC, Lama A, Piccolo G, Addeo NF, Paciello O, Martino G, Esposito S, Mercogliano R, Pirozzi C, Meli R, Ferrante MC. Subchronic oral exposure to polystyrene microplastics affects hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative balance in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116455. [PMID: 38772140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose a clear threat to aquatic organisms affecting their health. Their impact on liver homeostasis, as well as on the potential onset of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is still poorly investigated and remains almost unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of subchronic exposure to polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs; 1-20 μm; 0, 25, or 250 mg/kg b.w./day) on lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative balance in the liver of gilthead seabreams (Sparus aurata Linnaeus, 1758) exposed for 21 days via contaminated food. PS-MPs induced an up-regulation of mRNA levels of crucial genes associated with lipid synthesis and storage (i.e., PPARy, Srebp1, Fasn) without modifications of genes involved in lipid catabolism (i.e., PPARα, HL, Pla2) or transport and metabolism (Fabp1) in the liver. The increase of CSF1R and pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression (i.e., TNF-α and IL-1β) was also observed in exposed fish in a dose-dependent manner. These findings were confirmed by hepatic histological evaluations reporting evidence of lipid accumulation, inflammation, and necrosis. Moreover, PS-MPs caused the impairment of the hepatic antioxidant defense system through the alteration of its enzymatic (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase) and non-enzymatic (glutathione) components, resulting in the increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as biomarkers of oxidative damage. The alteration of detoxifying enzymes was inferred by the decreased Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity and the increased activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) at the highest PS-MP dose. The study suggests that PS-MPs affect the liver health of gilthead seabream. The liver dysfunction and damage caused by exposure to PS-MPs result from a detrimental interplay of inflammation, oxidative damage, and antioxidant and detoxifying enzymatic systems modifications, altering the gut-liver axis homeostasis. This scenario is suggestive of the involvement of MP-induced effects in the onset and progression of hepatic lipid dysfunction in gilthead seabream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Del Piano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy; Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy; Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Povo, Trento 38123, Italy
| | - Giovanni Piccolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Nicola Francesco Addeo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Orlando Paciello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Sergio Esposito
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Raffaelina Mercogliano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Claudio Pirozzi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meli
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Ferrante
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy.
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König Kardgar A, Doyle D, Warwas N, Hjelleset T, Sundh H, Carney Almroth B. Microplastics in aquaculture - Potential impacts on inflammatory processes in Nile tilapia. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30403. [PMID: 38726173 PMCID: PMC11079099 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30403] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture is essential for meeting the growing global demand for fish consumption. However, the widespread use of plastic and the presence of microplastics in aquaculture systems raise concerns about their impact on fish health and the safety of aquaculture products. This study focused on the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), one of the most important aquaculture fish species globally. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary exposure to a mixture of four conventional fossil fuel-based polymers (microplastics) on the health of adult and juvenile Nile tilapia. Two experiments were conducted, with 36 juvenile tilapia (10-40 g weight) exposed for 30 days and 24 adult tilapia (600-1000 g) exposed for 7 days, the former including a natural particle (kaolin) treatment. In the adult tilapia experiment, no significant effects on intestinal health (Ussing chamber method), oxidative stress, or inflammatory pathways (enzymatic and genetic biomarkers) were observed after exposure to the microplastic mixture. However, in the juvenile tilapia experiment, significant alterations in inflammatory pathways were observed following 30 days of exposure to the microplastic mixture, indicating potential adverse effects on fish health. These results highlight the potential negative impacts of microplastics on fish health and the economics and safety of aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azora König Kardgar
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Darragh Doyle
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Niklas Warwas
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Terese Hjelleset
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Sundh
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Fatema K, Islam MJ, Sarker MAI, Elahi KS, Alam MJ, Hasan SJ, Rashid H. Occurrence of microplastics in fish gastrointestinal tracts belongs to different feeding habits from the Bangladesh coast of the Bay of Bengal. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:24329-24343. [PMID: 38443534 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32681-8] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The Bay of Bengal (BoB) is home to a range of commercially important species with different food habits and feeding features. Microplastic (MP) contamination in the fish of BoB, like in many other marine environments, is a significant environmental concern. The study aimed to investigate the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) of selected commercial marine fishes from the Bangladesh coast of the BoB. Six fish species (Escualosa thoracata, Tenualosa ilisha, Johnius belangerii, Trichiurus lepturus, Planiliza parsia, and Mystus gulio) were investigated (n = 120) following hydrogen peroxide digestion, and floatation (saline solution) protocols. After analyses, a total number of 696 MPs (dimension 0.3 to 5 mm) were identified. Moreover, the highest occurrence of MPs in fish GITs was found in planktivorous fish (average of 7.7 items/individual), followed by omnivorous (average of 5.2 items/individual), and carnivorous fish (average of 4.6 items/individual) (p < 0.001). However, planktivorous E. thoracata showed the highest number of MPs per g of GIT (average of 30.99 items/g GIT), whereas T. ilisha showed the lowest count (average of 0.77 items/g GIT). Different types of MPs (fibers (19 to 76%), fragments (6 to 61%), films (8 to 35%), microbeads (0 to 5%), and foams (0 to 2%)) were also observed. In terms of the color of MPs, the transparent, black, green, and blue types were the most common. Polymers were found as polyethylene (35 to 43%), polyethylene terephthalate (28 to 35%), polyamide (20 to 31%), and polystyrene (0 to 7%). The study provides a significant incidence of MPs in fish from the Bangladesh part of the BoB, which is very concerning. Therefore, long-term research is indispensable to ascertain the variables affecting the presence of MPs in fish, their origins, and their potential effects on the BoB fisheries. Stringent policies on plastic use and disposal should be strongly urged in this coastal region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaniz Fatema
- Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
- Department of Fisheries Management, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, 5200, Bangladesh
| | - Md Jakiul Islam
- Department of Fisheries Technology and Quality Control, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ashraful Islam Sarker
- Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
- Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kazi Shahrukh Elahi
- Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Md Jahangir Alam
- Department of Fisheries Management, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali, 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Shanur Jahedul Hasan
- Marine Station, Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh
| | - Harunur Rashid
- Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh.
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Duan Z, Chen Y, Dou Y, Fan H, Wang J, Cong J, Sun H, Wang L. Plastic food? Energy compensation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) after long-term exposure to polylactic acid biomicroplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133604. [PMID: 38280326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
The extensive use of bio-based plastics has led to their widespread distribution in the environment. However, their long-term ecological impact on aquatic animals is not well understood. In this study, adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to 1000 items·L-1 of either polylactic acid (PLA) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics (MPs), for 90 days. PLA is a typical bio-based plastic, while PET is a typical petroleum-derived plastic. The abundances of PLA and PET MPs in fish intestines were 981 ± 66 and 671 ± 151 items per fish, respectively, indicating a greater amount of PLA MP residues than PET MPs. However, the inhibitory effect of PET on fish weight was 1.8 times higher than that of PLA, suggesting energy compensation in PLA-treated zebrafish. Proliferation of Lactobacillus was observed in the fish intestines of the PLA group, indicating increased utilization capacity of intestinal flora for lactic acid production during PLA degradation. Metabolomics showed that the tricarboxylic acid pathway was up-regulated in the PLA group compared with that in the PET group, providing evidence of energy compensation. However, more ingested PLA MPs caused more significant histological damage to fish intestines than PET MPs. Therefore, the ecological risks of bio-based plastics still require attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenghua Duan
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Yizhuo Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Yuhang Dou
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Huiyu Fan
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Jiaoyue Cong
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lei Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Zhu Y, Che R, Zong X, Wang J, Li J, Zhang C, Wang F. A comprehensive review on the source, ingestion route, attachment and toxicity of microplastics/nanoplastics in human systems. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 352:120039. [PMID: 38218169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs)/nanoplastics (NPs) are widely found in the natural environment, including soil, water and the atmosphere, which are essential for human survival. In the recent years, there has been a growing concern about the potential impact of MPs/NPs on human health. Due to the increasing interest in this research and the limited number of studies related to the health effects of MPs/NPs on humans, it is necessary to conduct a systematic assessment and review of their potentially toxic effects on human organs and tissues. Humans can be exposed to microplastics through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact, however, ingestion and inhalation are considered as the primary routes. The ingested MPs/NPs mainly consist of plastic particles with a particle size ranging from 0.1 to 1 μm, that distribute across various tissues and organs within the body, which in turn have a certain impact on the nine major systems of the human body, especially the digestive system and respiratory system, which are closely related to the intake pathway of MPs/NPs. The harmful effects caused by MPs/NPs primarily occur through potential toxic mechanisms such as induction of oxidative stress, generation of inflammatory responses, alteration of lipid metabolism or energy metabolism or expression of related functional factors. This review can help people to systematically understand the hazards of MPs/NPs and related toxicity mechanisms from the level of nine biological systems. It allows MPs/NPs pollution to be emphasized, and it is also hoped that research on their toxic effects will be strengthened in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhu
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Ruijie Che
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Xinyan Zong
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Jinhan Wang
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Jining Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Chaofeng Zhang
- Sino-Jan Joint Lab of Natural Health Products Research, School of Traditional Chinese Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Fenghe Wang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China.
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Cuesta A, Espinosa C, Esteban MA, González-Fernández C. Application of transcriptomic profiling to investigate the toxicity mechanisms caused by dietary exposure of nanoplastics in fish. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 264:106712. [PMID: 37813046 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106712] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, nanoplastics (NPs) are one of the main concerns regarding plastic pollution. The increasing presence of plastic particles, fibers and fragments in the marine environment pose an additional risk to both, wild and cultured fish. Ingestion is the main mechanism by which particles are internalized. Thus, this study evaluated the impact of a diet containing NPs in one of the most cultivated species across the Mediterranean Sea, the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Polystyrene NPs (50 nm) were supplied in the food for a period of 21 days and the transcriptomic changes were measured in the intestine through RNA-seq. Additionally, enzymatic and bactericidal activities were measured in the liver or serum, respectively of the same fish to evaluate the organism stress. No significant changes in the enzymatic activities were observed in the liver, whilst the seric bactericidal activity decreased by NPs dietary treatments. This suggests that ingestion of NPs at low dosages might have an impact on fish health. In addition, our data suggested that NPs impact some important biological pathways related to fish morphogenesis, organ development, membrane receptors, and fish immunity. These routes are extremely important for fish development and growth and can have long-term impact, since the early stages of fish are the most sensitive to this kind of pollution. This study provides information on the impact of the ingestion of NPs in sea bass and can serve as a basis for future investigations on the prevention and treatment of such pollutants in aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cuesta
- Immunobiology for Aquaculture Group, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Cristóbal Espinosa
- Immunobiology for Aquaculture Group, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - María A Esteban
- Immunobiology for Aquaculture Group, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
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