1
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Xiang T, Sun Y, Ding D, Yao W, Yu Z, Xie Y. Microscopic Raman-based rapid detection of submicron/nano polypropylene plastics in tea and tea beverages. Food Chem 2024; 454:139657. [PMID: 38810455 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Polypropylene (PP) is suitable for a broad range of applications and represents the most extensively utilized plastic in food packaging. Micro- and nano-PP plastics are prevalent categories of microplastics (MPs). However, the majority of MPs particles currently utilized in laboratory studies are man-made polystyrene (PS) spheres, and there has been limited research on micrometer- and nanoscale PP plastic particles. This study aims to employ a top-down approach in crafting micro/nanoparticle (M/NPs) models of PP particles, ensuring their enhanced relevance to real-world environments. Micro/nano PP particles, featuring a negatively charged particle size ranging from 203 to 2101 nm, were synthesized through variations in solution concentration and volume. Simultaneously, the devised MPs model was employed to develop a Raman-based qualitative and quantitative detection method for micro/nano PP particles, considering diverse sizes and concentrations. This method integrates Raman spectroscopy and microscopy to measure PP particles with varying sizes, utilizing the coffee ring effect. The Limit of detection (LOD) for 203 nm PP reached 31.25 μg/mL, while those for 382-2101 nm PP were approximately 3.9 μg/mL. The method underwent quantitative analysis by introducing 203 nm PP nanospheres into real food media (i.e., tea beverages, tea leaves), revealing a minimum LOD of approximately 31.25 μg/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongyue Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yingying Sun
- Research Institute, Centre Testing International Group Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Dazhi Ding
- School of Microelectronics (School of Integrated Circuits), Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Weirong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhilong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yunfei Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No.1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
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2
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Jin T, Liu Y, Lyu H, He Y, Sun H, Tang J, Xing B. Plastic takeaway food containers may cause human intestinal damage in routine life usage: Microplastics formation and cytotoxic effect. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 475:134866. [PMID: 38870856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134866] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The microplastics and organic additives formed in routine use of plastic takeaway food containers may pose significant health risks. Thus, we collected plastic containers made of polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid and simulated two thermal usages, including hot water (I) and microwave treatments (M). Nile Red fluorescence staining was developed to improve accurate counting of microplastics with the aid of TEM and DLS analysis. The quantity of MPs released from thermal treatments was determined ranging from 285.7 thousand items/cm2 to 681.5 thousand items/cm2 in containers loaded with hot water with the following order: IPS>IPP>IPET>IPLA, while microwave treatment showed lower values ranging from 171.9 thousand items/cm2 to 301.6 thousand items/cm2. In vitro toxicity test using human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells indicated decrease of cell viability in raw leachate, resuspended MPs and supernatants, which might further lead to cell membrane rupture, ROS production, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, the leachate inhibited the expression of key genes in the electron transport chain (ETC) process, disrupted energy metabolism. For the first time, we isolate the actually released microplastics and organic substances for in vitro toxicity testing, and demonstrate their potential impacts to human intestine. SYNOPSIS: Plastic take-out containers may release microplastics and organic substances during daily usage, both of which can cause individual and combined cytotoxic effects on human colon adenocarcinoma cells Caco-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyue Jin
- 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
| | - Yaxuan 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
| | - Honghong Lyu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Clean Energy and Pollution Control, School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China.
| | - Yuhe He
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- 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.
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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3
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Huang W, Mo J, Li J, Wu K. Exploring developmental toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPS): Insights from investigations using zebrafish embryos. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173012. [PMID: 38719038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) have received increasing attention due to their high detection rates in human matrices and adverse health implications. However, the toxicity of MNPs on embryo/fetal development following maternal exposure remains largely unexplored. Zebrafish, sharing genetic similarities with human, boast a shorter life cycle, rapid embryonic development, and the availability of many transgenic strains, is a suitable model for environmental toxicology studies. This review comprehensively explores the existing research on the impacts of MNPs on zebrafish embryo development. MNPs exposure induces a wide array of toxic effects, encompassing neurodevelopmental toxicity, immunotoxicity, gastrointestinal effects, microbiota dysbiosis, cardiac dysfunctions, vascular toxicity, and metabolic imbalances. Moreover, MNPs disrupt the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant capacity, culminating in oxidative damage and apoptosis. This study also offers insight into the current omics- and multi-omics based approaches in MNPs research, which greatly expedite the discovery of biochemical or metabolic pathways, and molecular mechanisms underlying MNPs exposure. Additionally, this review proposes a preliminary adverse outcome pathway framework to predict developmental toxicity caused by MNPs. It provides a comprehensive overview of pathways, facilitating a clearer understanding of the exposure and toxicity of MNPs, from molecular effects to adverse outcomes. The compiled data in this review provide a better understanding for MNPs effects on early life development, with the goal of increasing awareness about the risks posed to pregnant women by MNPs exposure and its potential impact on the health of their future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Huang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiezhang Mo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiejie Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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4
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Hong W, Zhang M, Wang F, Li Z, Li Z, Wei J, Song M, Qian Y, Pang S, Wang L, Zhao H, Cao M, Shi J, Liang Y. Special Distribution of Nanoplastics in the Central Nervous System of Zebrafish during Early Development. ACS NANO 2024; 18:17509-17520. [PMID: 38918939 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
There is growing concern about the distribution of nanoplastics (NPs) in the central nervous system (CNS), whereas intrusion is poorly understood. In this study, fluorescent-labeled polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) were microinjected into different areas of zebrafish embryo to mimic different routes of exposure. PS-NPs were observed in the brain, eyes, and spinal cord through gametal exposure. It indicated that maternally derived PS-NPs were specially distributed in the CNS of zebrafish during early development. Importantly, these NPs were stranded in the CNS but not transferred to other organs during development. Furthermore, using neuron GFP-labeled transgenic zebrafish, colocalization between NPs and the neuron cells revealed that NPs were mostly enriched in the CNS surrounded but not the neurons. Even so, the intrusion of NPs into the CNS induced the significant upregulation of some neurotransmitter receptors, leading to an inhibited effect on the movement of zebrafish larvae. This work provides insights into understanding the intrusion and distribution of NPs in the CNS and the subsequent potential adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Hong
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Fengbang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Zhunjie Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Jinbo Wei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Maoyong Song
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, 10555 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33174, United States
| | - Shaochen Pang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Haobin Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Mengxi Cao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Jianbo Shi
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yong Liang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
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5
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James BD, Medvedev AV, Makarov SS, Nelson RK, Reddy CM, Hahn ME. Moldable Plastics (Polycaprolactone) can be Acutely Toxic to Developing Zebrafish and Activate Nuclear Receptors in Mammalian Cells. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024. [PMID: 38981095 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00693] [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] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Popularized on social media, hand-moldable plastics are formed by consumers into tools, trinkets, and dental prosthetics. Despite the anticipated dermal and oral contact, manufacturers share little information with consumers about these materials, which are typically sold as microplastic-sized resin pellets. Inherent to their function, moldable plastics pose a risk of dermal and oral exposure to unknown leachable substances. We analyzed 12 moldable plastics advertised for modeling and dental applications and determined them to be polycaprolactone (PCL) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The bioactivities of the most popular brands advertised for modeling applications of each type of polymer were evaluated using a zebrafish embryo bioassay. While water-borne exposure to the TPU pellets did not affect the targeted developmental end points at any concentration tested, the PCL pellets were acutely toxic above 1 pellet/mL. The aqueous leachates of the PCL pellets demonstrated similar toxicity. Methanolic extracts from the PCL pellets were assayed for their bioactivity using the Attagene FACTORIAL platform. Of the 69 measured end points, the extracts activated nuclear receptors and transcription factors for xenobiotic metabolism (pregnane X receptor, PXR), lipid metabolism (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, PPARγ), and oxidative stress (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, NRF2). By nontargeted high-resolution comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC-HRT), we tentatively identified several compounds in the methanolic extracts, including PCL oligomers, a phenolic antioxidant, and residues of suspected antihydrolysis and cross-linking additives. In a follow-up zebrafish embryo bioassay, because of its stated high purity, biomedical grade PCL was tested to mitigate any confounding effects due to chemical additives in the PCL pellets; it elicited comparable acute toxicity. From these orthogonal and complementary experiments, we suggest that the toxicity was due to oligomers and nanoplastics released from the PCL rather than chemical additives. These results challenge the perceived and assumed inertness of plastics and highlight their multiple sources of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D James
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
- Department of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Alexander V Medvedev
- Attagene, Research Triangle Park, Morrisville, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Sergei S Makarov
- Attagene, Research Triangle Park, Morrisville, North Carolina 27709, United States
| | - Robert K Nelson
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Christopher M Reddy
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Department of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
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6
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Zhou D, Cai Y, Yang Z. Transport of polystyrene microplastics in bare and iron oxide-coated quartz sand: Effects of ionic strength, humic acid, and co-existing graphene oxide. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174270. [PMID: 38925391 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
This research explored the effects of widely utilized nanomaterial graphene oxide (GO) and organic matter humic acid (HA) on the transport of microplastics under different ionic solution strengths in bare sand and iron oxide-coated sand. The results found transport of polystyrene microplastics (PS) did not respond to the presence of HA in sand that contains large amounts of iron oxide. Compared to bare quartz sand, ionic strength had little effect: <20 % of PS passed through Fe sand columns. There was a significant promotion of PS transport in the presence of GO, however, which can be attributed to the increased surface electronegativity of PS and steric hindrance. Moreover, GO combined with HA significantly promoted the transport of PS in the Fe sand, and transport further increased when the concentration of HA increased from 5 to 10 mg/L. Interestingly, the degree of this increase exactly corresponded to the change in the surface charge of the microplastics, demonstrating that electrostatic interaction dominated the PS transport. Further results indicated that co-existing pollutants had significant impacts on the transport of microplastics under various conditions by altering the surface characteristics of the plastic particles and the spatial steric hindrance within porous media. This research will offer insights into predicting the transport and fate of microplastics in complex environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yanpeng Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Water Quality Improvement and Ecological Restoration for Watersheds, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou 511458, China.
| | - Zhifeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Key Laboratory for City Cluster Environmental Safety and Green Development of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
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7
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Yang T, Nowack B. Formation of nanoparticles during accelerated UV degradation of fleece polyester textiles. NANOIMPACT 2024; 35:100520. [PMID: 38906250 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics have emerged as critical pollutants in various ecosystems, posing potential environmental and human health risks. Washing of polyester textiles has been identified as one of the sources of nanoplastics. However, other stages of the textile life cycle may also release nanoparticles. This study aimed to examine nanoparticle release during UV degradation of polyester textiles under controlled and real-world conditions. Fleece polyester textiles were weathered under simulated sunlight for up to two months, either in air or submerged in water. We conducted bi-weekly SEM image analyses and quantified released nanoparticles using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). At week 0, the fiber surface appeared smooth after prewashing. In the air group, nanoparticles appeared on the fiber surface after UV-exposure. In the group of textiles submerged in water, the surfaces developed more pits over time. The cumulative nanoparticle emission from the weathered textiles ranged from 1.4 × 1011 to 4.0 × 1011 particles per gram of fabric in the air group and from 1.6 × 1011 to 4.4 × 1011 particles per gram of fabric in the water group over two months. The predominant particle size fell into the 100 to 200 nm range. The estimated mass of the released nanoparticles was 0.06-0.26 g per gram of fabric, which is lower than the amount released during the washing of new textiles. Additionally, Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy (STXM) images indicated that the weathered nanoparticles underwent oxidation. Overall, the research offers valuable insights into nanoparticle formation and release from polyester textiles during UV degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yang
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland; Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada.
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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8
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Krause S, Ouellet V, Allen D, Allen S, Moss K, Nel HA, Manaseki-Holland S, Lynch I. The potential of micro- and nanoplastics to exacerbate the health impacts and global burden of non-communicable diseases. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101581. [PMID: 38781963 PMCID: PMC11228470 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCD) constitute one of the highest burdens of disease globally and are associated with inflammatory responses in target organs. There is increasing evidence of significant human exposure to micro- and nanoplastics (MnPs). This review of environmental MnP exposure and health impacts indicates that MnP particles, directly and indirectly through their leachates, may exacerbate inflammation. Meanwhile, persistent inflammation associated with NCDs in gastrointestinal and respiratory systems potentially increases MnP uptake, thus influencing MnP access to distal organs. Consequently, a future increase in MnP exposure potentially augments the risk and severity of NCDs. There is a critical need for an integrated one-health approach to human health and environmental research for assessing the drivers of human MnP exposure and their bidirectional links with NCDs. Assessing these risks requires interdisciplinary efforts to identify and link drivers of environmental MnP exposure and organismal uptake to studies of impacted disease mechanisms and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Krause
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Ecologie des Hydrosystèmes Naturels et Anthropisés (LEHNA), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, UMR5023, 69622 Villeurbanne, France.
| | - Valerie Ouellet
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Deonie Allen
- WESP - Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability & Public Health, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK
| | - Steven Allen
- WESP - Centre for Water, Environment, Sustainability & Public Health, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ, UK
| | - Kerry Moss
- Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Holly A Nel
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Semira Manaseki-Holland
- Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Iseult Lynch
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Institute for Global Innovation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA), University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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9
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Cole M, Gomiero A, Jaén-Gil A, Haave M, Lusher A. Microplastic and PTFE contamination of food from cookware. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172577. [PMID: 38641111 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are a prolific environmental contaminant that have been evidenced in human tissues. Human uptake of microplastic occurs via inhalation of airborne fibres and ingestion of microplastic-contaminated foods and beverages. Plastic and PTFE-coated cookware and food contact materials may release micro- and nanoplastics into food during food preparation. In this study, the extent to which non-plastic, new plastic and old plastic cookware releases microplastics into prepared food is investigated. Jelly is used as a food simulant, undergoing a series of processing steps including heating, cooling, mixing, slicing and storage to replicate food preparation steps undertaken in home kitchens. Using non-plastic cookware did not introduce microplastics to the food simulant. Conversely, using new and old plastic cookware resulted in significant increases in microplastic contamination. Microplastics comprised PTFE, polyethylene and polypropylene particulates and fibrous particles, ranging 13-318 μm. Assuming a meal was prepared daily per the prescribed methodology, new and old plastic cookware may be contributing 2409-4964 microplastics per annum into homecooked food. The health implications of ingesting microplastics remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Cole
- Marine Ecology & Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - Alessio Gomiero
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway
| | - Adrián Jaén-Gil
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway
| | - Marte Haave
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway; SALT Lofoten AS, Pb. 91, Fiskergata 23, 8301 Svolvær, Norway
| | - Amy Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
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10
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Winiarska E, Jutel M, Zemelka-Wiacek M. The potential impact of nano- and microplastics on human health: Understanding human health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118535. [PMID: 38460665 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are used all over the world. Unfortunately, due to limited biodegradation, plastics cause a significant level of environmental pollution. The smallest recognized to date are termed nanoplastics (1 nm [nm] up to 1 μm [μm]) and microplastics (1 μm-5 mm). These nano- and microplastics can enter the human body through the respiratory system via inhalation, the digestive tract via consumption of contaminated food and water, or penetration through the skin via cosmetics and clothes contact. Bioaccumulation of plastics in the human body can potentially lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory disorders like lung cancer, asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, neurological symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness, inflammatory bowel disease and even disturbances in gut microbiota. Most studies to date have confirmed that nano- and microplastics can induce apoptosis in cells and have genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of plastics' actions may help extrapolate the risks to humans. The article provides a comprehensive review of articles in databases regarding the impact of nano- and microplastics on human health. The review included retrospective studies and case reports of people exposed to nanoplastics and microplastics. This research highlights the need for further research to fully understand the extent of the impact of plastics on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Winiarska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
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11
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Peng M, Grootaert C, Vercauteren M, Boon N, Janssen C, Rajkovic A, Asselman J. Probing Long-Term Impacts: Low-Dose Polystyrene Nanoplastics Exacerbate Mitochondrial Health and Evoke Secondary Glycolysis via Repeated and Single Dosing. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9967-9979. [PMID: 38814788 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are omnipresent in the environment and contribute to human exposure. However, little is known regarding the long-term effects of NPs on human health. In this study, human intestinal Caco-2 cells were exposed to polystyrene nanoplastics (nanoPS) in an environmentally relevant concentration range (102-109 particles/mL) under two realistic exposure scenarios. In the first scenario, cells were repeatedly exposed to nanoPS every 2 days for 12 days to study the long-term effects. In the second scenario, only nanoPS was added once and Caco-2 cells were cultured for 12 days to study the duration of the initial effects of NPs. Under repeated dosing, initial subtle effects on mitochondria induced by low concentrations would accrue over consistent exposure to nanoPS and finally lead to significant impairment of mitochondrial respiration, mitochondrial mass, and cell differentiation process at the end of prolonged exposure, accompanied by significantly increased glycolysis over the whole exposure period. Single dosing of nanoPS elicited transient effects on mitochondrial and glycolytic functions, as well as increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the early phase of exposure, but the self-recovery capacity of cells mitigated these effects at intermediate culture times. Notably, secondary effects on glycolysis and ROS production were observed during the late culture period, while the cell differentiation process and mitochondrial mass were not affected at the end. These long-term effects are of crucial importance for comprehensively evaluating the health hazards arising from lifetime exposure to NPs, complementing the extensively observed acute effects associated with prevalent short-term exposure to high concentrations. Our study underlines the need to study the toxicity of NPs in realistic long-term exposure scenarios such as repeated dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Peng
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Wetenschapspark 1, 8400 Oostende Belgium
| | - Charlotte Grootaert
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maaike Vercauteren
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Wetenschapspark 1, 8400 Oostende Belgium
| | - Nico Boon
- Center for Microbial Technology and Ecology (CMET), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Colin Janssen
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Wetenschapspark 1, 8400 Oostende Belgium
| | - Andreja Rajkovic
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jana Asselman
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Wetenschapspark 1, 8400 Oostende Belgium
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12
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Yarahmadi A, Heidari S, Sepahvand P, Afkhami H, Kheradjoo H. Microplastics and environmental effects: investigating the effects of microplastics on aquatic habitats and their impact on human health. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1411389. [PMID: 38912266 PMCID: PMC11191580 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1411389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are particles with a diameter of <5 mm. The disposal of plastic waste into the environment poses a significant and pressing issue concern globally. Growing worry has been expressed in recent years over the impact of MPs on both human health and the entire natural ecosystem. MPs impact the feeding and digestive capabilities of marine organisms, as well as hinder the development of plant roots and leaves. Numerous studies have shown that the majority of individuals consume substantial quantities of MPs either through their dietary intake or by inhaling them. MPs have been identified in various human biological samples, such as lungs, stool, placenta, sputum, breast milk, liver, and blood. MPs can cause various illnesses in humans, depending on how they enter the body. Healthy and sustainable ecosystems depend on the proper functioning of microbiota, however, MPs disrupt the balance of microbiota. Also, due to their high surface area compared to their volume and chemical characteristics, MPs act as pollutant absorbers in different environments. Multiple policies and initiatives exist at both the domestic and global levels to mitigate pollution caused by MPs. Various techniques are currently employed to remove MPs, such as biodegradation, filtration systems, incineration, landfill disposal, and recycling, among others. In this review, we will discuss the sources and types of MPs, the presence of MPs in different environments and food, the impact of MPs on human health and microbiota, mechanisms of pollutant adsorption on MPs, and the methods of removing MPs with algae and microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aref Yarahmadi
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Parisa Sepahvand
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Zhang Q, Lang Y, Tang X, Cheng W, Cheng Z, Rizwan M, Xie L, Liu Y, Xu H, Liu Y. Polystyrene microplastic-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress contributes to growth plate endochondral ossification disorder in young rat. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:3314-3329. [PMID: 38440912 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies on the effects of microplastics (MPs) on bone in early development are limited. This study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of MPs on bone in young rats and the potential mechanism. METHODS Three-week-old female rats were orally administered MPs for 28 days, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inhibitor salubrinal (SAL) and ER stress agonist tunicamycin (TM) were added to evaluate the effect of ER stress on toxicity of MPs. The indicators of growth and plasma markers of bone turnover were evaluated. Tibias were analyzed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Histomorphological staining of growth plates was performed, and related gene expression of growth plate chondrocytes was tested. RESULTS After exposure of MPs, the rats had decreased growth, shortened tibial length, and altered blood calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Trabecular bone was sparse according to micro-CT inspection. In the growth plate, the thickness of proliferative zone substantial reduced while the thickness of hypertrophic zone increased significantly, and the chondrocytes were scarce and irregularly arranged according to tibial histological staining. The transcription of the ER stress-related genes BIP, PERK, ATF4, and CHOP dramatically increased, and the transcription factors involved in chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and matrix secretion were aberrant according to RT-qPCR and western blotting. Moreover, the addition of TM showed higher percentage of chondrocyte death. Administration of SAL alleviated all of the MPs-induced symptoms. CONCLUSION These results indicated that MPs could induce growth retardation and longitudinal bone damage in early development. The toxicity of MPs may attribute to induced ER stress and impaired essential processes of the endochondral ossification after MPs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Lang
- Medical Imaging Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Tang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenshu Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zugen Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mohammad Rizwan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixin Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanling Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, People's Republic of China
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14
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Chang L, Bai S, Wei P, Gao X, Dong J, Zhou B, Peng C, Jia J, Luan T. Quantitative detecting low concentration polystyrene nanoplastics in aquatic environments via an Ag/Nb 2CT x (MXene) SERS substrate. Talanta 2024; 273:125859. [PMID: 38447341 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
In this study, the plasmonic Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were uniformly anchored on the high conductivity Nb2CTx (MXene) nanosheets to construct an Ag/Nb2CTx substrate for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection of polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics. The KI addition (0.15 mol/L), the volume ratio between substrate colloid and nanoplastic suspension (2:1), and the mass ratio of Nb2CTx in substrate (14%) on SERS performance were optimized. The EM hot spots of Ag/Nb2CTx are significantly enlarged and enhanced, elucidated by FDFD simulation. Then, the linear relationship between the PS nanoplastics concentration with three different sizes (50, 300, and 500 nm) and the SERS intensity was obtained (R2 > 0.976), wherein, the detection limit was as low as 10-4 mg/mL for PS nanoplastic. Owing to the fingerprint feature, the Ag/Nb2CTx-14% substrate successfully discerns the mixtures from two-component nanoplastics. Meanwhile, it exhibits excellent stability of PS nanoplastics on different detection sites. The recovery rates of PS nanoplastics with different sizes in lake water ranged from 94.74% to 107.29%, with the relative standard deviation (RSD) ranging from 2.88% to 8.30%. Based on this method, the expanded polystyrene (EPS) decomposition behavior was evaluated, and the PS concentrations in four water environments were analyzed. This work will pave the way for the accurate quantitative detection of low concentration of nanoplastics in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lekai Chang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuli Bai
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China
| | - Ping Wei
- School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingyue Gao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinfeng Dong
- School of Pharmacy and Food Engineering, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China
| | - Bingpu Zhou
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, China
| | - Chao Peng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Institute of Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutralization, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, Guangdong, China.
| | - Jianbo Jia
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Institute of Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutralization, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, Guangdong, China
| | - Tiangang Luan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and Cleaner Production, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Institute of Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutralization, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, Guangdong, China
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15
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Liu Y, Cao Y, Li H, Liu H, Bi L, Chen Q, Peng R. A systematic review of microplastics emissions in kitchens: Understanding the links with diseases in daily life. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 188:108740. [PMID: 38749117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108740] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The intensification of microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a formidable environmental challenge, with profound global implications. The pervasive presence of MPs across a multitude of environmental mediums, such as the atmosphere, soil, and oceans, extends to commonplace items, culminating in widespread human ingestion and accumulation via channels like food, water, and air. In the domestic realm, kitchens have become significant epicenters for MPs pollution. A plethora of kitchen utensils, encompassing coated non-stick pans, plastic cutting boards, and disposable utensils, are known to release substantial quantities of MPs particles in everyday use, which can then be ingested alongside food. This paper conducts a thorough examination of contemporary research addressing the release of MPs from kitchen utensils during usage and focuses on the health risks associated with MPs ingestion, as well as the myriad factors influencing the release of MPs in kitchen utensils. Leveraging the insights derived from this analysis, this paper proposes a series of strategic recommendations and measures targeted at mitigating the production of MPs in kitchen settings. These initiatives are designed not solely to diminish the release of MPs but also to enhance public awareness regarding this pressing environmental concern. By adopting more informed practices in kitchens, we can significantly contribute to the reduction of the environmental burden of MPs pollution, thus safeguarding both human health and the ecological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinai Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Huiqi Li
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Huanpeng Liu
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Liuliu Bi
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Renyi Peng
- Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Key Lab of Biohealth Materials and Chemistry of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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16
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Ruan X, Ao J, Ma M, Jones RR, Liu J, Li K, Ge Q, Xu G, Liu Y, Wang T, Xie L, Wang W, You W, Wang L, Valev VK, Ji M, Zhang L. Nanoplastics Detected in Commercial Sea Salt. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9091-9101. [PMID: 38709279 PMCID: PMC11196019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c11021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
People of all ages consume salt every day, but is it really just salt? Plastic nanoparticles [nanoplastics (NPs)] pose an increasing environmental threat and have begun to contaminate everyday salt in consumer goods. Herein, we developed a combined surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) approach that can realize the filtration, enrichment, and detection of NPs in commercial salt. The Au-loaded (50 nm) anodic alumina oxide substrate was used as the SERS substrate to explore the potential types of NP contaminants in salts. SRS was used to conduct imaging and quantify the presence of the NPs. SRS detection was successfully established through standard plastics, and NPs were identified through the match of the hydrocarbon group of the nanoparticles. Simultaneously, the NPs were quantified based on the high spatial resolution and rapid imaging of the SRS imaging platform. NPs in sea salts produced in Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the Atlantic were studied. We estimate that, depending on the location, an average person could be ingesting as many as 6 million NPs per year through the consumption of sea salt alone. The potential health hazards associated with NP ingestion should not be underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejun Ruan
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Jianpeng Ao
- State
Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Human
Phenome Institute, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory
of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Yiwu Research Institute of Fudan University, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic
of China
| | - Minglu Ma
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Robin R. Jones
- Centre
for Photonics and Photonic Materials and Centre for Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, University
of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Juan Liu
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Kejian Li
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Ge
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Guanjun Xu
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Tao Wang
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Lifang Xie
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Wenbo You
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Licheng Wang
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
| | - Ventsislav K. Valev
- Centre
for Photonics and Photonic Materials and Centre for Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology, Department of Physics, University
of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Minbiao Ji
- State
Key Laboratory of Surface Physics and Department of Physics, Human
Phenome Institute, Academy for Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory
of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Yiwu Research Institute of Fudan University, Fudan
University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic
of China
| | - Liwu Zhang
- Shanghai
Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, National
Observations and Research Station for Wetland Ecosystems of the Yangtze
Estuary, IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity
and Governance on Weather, Department of Environmental Science &
Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Peoples’ Republic of China
- Shanghai
Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, Peoples’ Republic of China
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17
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Sun Y, Jiao X, Zhang N, Yan B, Fan D. Correspondence on "Assessing the Release of Microplastics and Nanoplastics from Plastic Containers and Reusable Food Pouches: Implications for Human Health". ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9013-9014. [PMID: 38722707 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xidong Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Nana Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Bowen Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Daming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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18
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Rai R, Ranjan R, Kant C, Dhar P. Microplastic and adhesive free, multifunctional, circular economy approach-based biomass-derived drinking straws. iScience 2024; 27:109630. [PMID: 38628968 PMCID: PMC11019268 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Generation of voluminous single-use plastic waste and byproducts from agricultural harvests such as rice straws (RSs) are major global challenges due to their disposal issues, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, and affecting the ecological system with threats to human health. A scalable, low-cost, and eco-friendly strategy for fabricating cellulose-silica-based drinking straws, free from microplastics and adhesive, through strategic valorization of RS is reported. Functionalization by delignification-cum-crosslinking of RS leads to development of straws with high water stability (∼5 days), solvothermal stability (0°C-95°C), tensile strength (128 MPa), low migration values (<60 mg/kg), improved biodegradability (∼126 days) with reduced wettability and hydrophobicity. RS drinking straws show antibacterial, self-cleaning, self-healing, anti-fizzing, reusable, and generate significantly lower carbon footprint (<99.8% and <53.34% global warming potential than metal and polylactic acid straws). Repurposing of agro-wastes from farms to commercially viable drinking straws which biodegrades after its consumption achieves the goal of circular economy and sustainable development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Rai
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rahul Ranjan
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chandra Kant
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Prodyut Dhar
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
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19
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Kadac-Czapska K, Jutrzenka Trzebiatowska P, Mazurkiewicz M, Kowalczyk P, Knez E, Behrendt M, Mahlik S, Zaleska-Medynska A, Grembecka M. Isolation and identification of microplastics in infant formulas - A potential health risk for children. Food Chem 2024; 440:138246. [PMID: 38154286 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.138246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles between 0.1 and 5,000 µm in size that can contaminate food. Unfortunately, to date, little attention has been paid to analyzing the presence of such particles in baby foods. The present study aimed to determine the degree of contamination of infant formula with MPs. A total of thirty products were subjected to analysis. The research methodology used included the isolation of plastic particles, identification and characterization of MPs using advanced microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Microplastics were detected in all tested samples. The most frequently identified polymers were polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate). The particles exhibited diverse forms, including fibers, fragments, and films, displaying a range of colors such as colorless, black, and brown particles. Furthermore, the daily intake of MPs by children fed exclusively infant formula was estimated to be approximately 49 ± 32 MPs. This poses a potential health risk for the youngest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | | | - Piotr Kowalczyk
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Eliza Knez
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Mirosław Behrendt
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, University of Gdańsk, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sebastian Mahlik
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, University of Gdańsk, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Adriana Zaleska-Medynska
- Department of Environmental Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grembecka
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland.
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20
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Paul I, Mondal P, Haldar D, Halder G. Beyond the cradle - Amidst microplastics and the ongoing peril during pregnancy and neonatal stages: A holistic review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 469:133963. [PMID: 38461669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Advancements in research concerning the occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in human blood, sputum, urine, and breast milk samples have piqued the interest of the scientific community, prompting further investigation. MPs present in the placenta, amniotic fluid, and meconium raise concerns about interference with embryonic development, leading to preeclampsia, stillbirth, preterm birth, and spontaneous abortion. The challenges posed by MPs extend beyond pregnancy, affecting the digestive, reproductive, circulatory, immune, and central nervous systems. This has spurred scientists to examine the origins of MPs in distinct environmental layers, including air, water, and soil. These risks continue after birth, as neonates are continuously exposed to MPs through everyday items such as breast milk, cow milk and infant milk powder, as well as plastic-based products like feeding bottles and breast milk storage bags. It is the need of the hour to strike a balance amidst lifestyle changes, alternative choices to traditional plastic products, raising awareness about plastic-related health risks, and fostering collaboration between the scientific community and policymakers. This review aims to provide fresh insights into potential sources of MP pollution, with a specific focus on pregnancy and neonates. It is the first compilation of its kind so far that includes critical studies on recently reported discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrani Paul
- Department of Biotechnology, Brainware University, Kolkata 700125, West Bengal, India
| | - Pritam Mondal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur 713209, West Bengal, India
| | - Dibyajyoti Haldar
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore 641114, India
| | - Gopinath Halder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur 713209, West Bengal, India.
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21
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Ye J, Ren Y, Dong Y, Fan D. Understanding the impact of nanoplastics on reproductive health: Exposure pathways, mechanisms, and implications. Toxicology 2024; 504:153792. [PMID: 38554767 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a pressing global environmental concern with particular urgency surrounding the issue of nanoplastic particles. Plastic products exhibit a remarkable persistence in natural ecosystems, resisting easy degradation. Nanoplastics, characterized by their diminutive size, possess distinct properties when compared to their larger counterparts, which could potentially render them more ecologically detrimental. Microplastics themselves serve as carriers for toxic and hazardous substances, such as plastic additives, that enter and persist in the environmental cycle. Importantly, nanoplastics exhibit enhanced bioavailability upon entering the food chain. Notably, studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of nanoplastics on the reproductive function of aquatic organisms, and evidence of micro- and nanoplastics have emerged within human reproductive organs, including the placenta. However, a knowledge gap persists regarding the impacts of nanoplastics on the reproductive systems of mammals and, indeed, humans. This paper aims to elucidate the less frequently discussed sources and distribution of nanoplastics in the environment, along with the pathways of human exposure. We also emphasize the extent to which nanoplastics accumulate within the reproductive systems of organisms. Subsequently, we present an in-depth analysis of the effects of nanoplastics and their associated contaminants on mammalian and human reproductive health. The mechanisms through which nanoplastics contribute to reproductive disorders are comprehensively explored, highlighting their potential to disrupt endocrine levels in mammals and humans. Additionally, we scrutinize and discuss studies on biotoxicity of nanoplastics, offering insights into potential areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingfan Ye
- Key Laboratory of Shale Gas and Geological Engineering, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Ren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhui Dong
- Key Laboratory of Shale Gas and Geological Engineering, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Dongwei Fan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing, China; Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.
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22
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Lugonja N, Marinković V, Pucarević M, Miletić S, Stojić N, Crnković D, Vrvić M. Human Milk-The Biofluid That Nourishes Infants from the First Day of Life. Foods 2024; 13:1298. [PMID: 38731669 PMCID: PMC11083309 DOI: 10.3390/foods13091298] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Human milk is a biofluid with a unique composition among mammalian milks. Besides this milk's major components, its bioactive compounds, like hormones, immune factors, and oligosaccharides, are unique and important for infant growth and development. The best form of nutrition for term and preterm infants is the mother's own milk. However, in the absence of the mother's own milk, donor milk should be made available. Milk banks support neonatal intensive care units by providing preterm infants with human milk that generally has reasonable nutritive value for this sensitive population. However, neither mother's own milk nor donor milk has sufficient energy content for the growth of preterm babies, so adequate human milk supplementation is crucial for their progress. Due to the different characteristics of human breast milk, as well as ubiquitous environmental pollutants, such as microplastics, new methods are required for monitoring the quality and characteristics of human milk, which will lay a solid foundation for the further development and progress of human milk research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikoleta Lugonja
- Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Njegoševa 12, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Vesna Marinković
- Institute of Neonatology, Kralja Milutina 50, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Mira Pucarević
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Educons University, Vojvode Putnika 87, 21208 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia; (M.P.); (N.S.); (M.V.)
| | - Srdjan Miletić
- Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Njegoševa 12, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Nataša Stojić
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Educons University, Vojvode Putnika 87, 21208 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia; (M.P.); (N.S.); (M.V.)
| | - Dragan Crnković
- City Public Health Institute of Belgrade, Blvd. Despot Stefana 54a, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Miroslav Vrvić
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Educons University, Vojvode Putnika 87, 21208 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia; (M.P.); (N.S.); (M.V.)
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23
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Bryant M, Ren J, Sharma VK, Ma X. Mutual Effects and Uptake of Organic Contaminants and Nanoplastics by Lettuce in Co-Exposure. ACS AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 4:463-470. [PMID: 38638684 PMCID: PMC11022170 DOI: 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Organic contaminants, such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, are commonly found in agricultural systems. With the growing use of plastic products, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly detected in these agricultural systems, necessitating research into their interactions and joint effects to truly understand their impact. Unfortunately, while there has been a long history of research into the uptake of organic pollutants by plants, similar research with MNPs is only beginning, and studies on their mutual effects and plant uptake are extremely rare. In this study, we examined the effects of three agriculturally relevant organic pollutants with distinctive hydrophobicity as measured by log KOW (trimethoprim: 0.91, atrazine: 2.61, and ibuprofen: 3.97) and 500 nm polystyrene nanoplastics on their uptake and accumulation by lettuce at two different salinity levels. Our results showed that nanoplastics increased the shoot concentration of ibuprofen by 77.4 and 309% in nonsaline and saline conditions, respectively. Alternatively, organic co-contaminants slightly lowered the PS NPs uptake in lettuce with a more pronounced decrease in saline water. These results underscore the impactful interactions of hydrophobic organic pollutants and increasing MNPs on a dynamic global environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael
Taylor Bryant
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Jianhong Ren
- Department
of Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M
University-Kingsville, Kingsville, Texas 78363, United States
| | - Virender K. Sharma
- Department
of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Xingmao Ma
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
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24
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Xue J, Xu Z, Hu X, Lu Y, Zhao Y, Zhang H. Microplastics in maternal amniotic fluid and their associations with gestational age. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:171044. [PMID: 38382607 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171044] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a growing global concern due to its potential threat to human health, particularly concerning fetal health. Nevertheless, few studies have examined the sources of fetal MPs exposure and its impact on fetal development. In this study, MPs levels in maternal amniotic fluid (AF) and their associations with measures of fetal growth were investigated. Specifically, 40 human AF samples were collected to determine the presence and characteristics of MPs using laser direct infrared (LD-IR) spectroscopy. MPs were found in 32 out of 40 AF samples, with an average abundance of 2.01 ± 4.19 particles/g. Polyethylene (PE, 38.80 %) and chlorinated polyethylene (CPE, 26.98 %) were the most prevalent polymers. The majority of MPs (87.56 %) were 20-100 μm in size, and fragments (71.23 %) evidently prevailed in morphology. Additionally, a questionnaire was designed to explore the associations between MPs levels in the AF and maternal dietary habits, aiming at unveiling the potential sources of MPs in AF. The MPs levels in the AF were positively associated with the frequency of seafood consumption (r = 0.781, P < 0.001) and bottled water intake (r = 0.386, P = 0.014). Moreover, the associations between MPs levels in maternal AF and measures of fetal growth were evaluated. The abundance of total MPs in maternal AF were significantly negatively associated with gestational age (β = -0.44, 95 % CI, -0.83, -0.05). This study confirms the presence of MPs in human AF and provides compelling evidence linking them to gestational age, while highlighting the potential risks associated with dietary habits. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of MPs transmission from mother to fetus and the potential health implications during fetal development, offering valuable insights for future policies aimed at safeguarding maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyang Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhendong Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaobing Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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25
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Alak G, Köktürk M, Atamanalp M. Evaluation of phthalate migration potential in vacuum-packed. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7944. [PMID: 38575598 PMCID: PMC10995151 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54730-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the presence and migration of PAEs in packaging materials and consumer products has become a serious concern. Based on this concern, the aim of our study is to determine the possible migration potential and speed of PAEs in benthic fish stored in vacuum packaging, as well as to monitor the storage time and type as well as polyethylene (PE) polymer detection.As a result of the analysis performed by µ-Raman spectroscopy, 1 microplastic (MP) of 6 µm in size was determined on the 30th day of storage in whiting fish muscle and the polymer type was found to be Polyethylene (PE) (low density polyethylene: LDPE). Depending on the storage time of the packaging used in the vacuum packaging process, it has been determined that its chemical composition is affected by temperature and different types of polymers are formed. 10 types of PAEs were identified in the packaging material and stored flesh fish: DIBP, DBP, DPENP, DHEXP, BBP, DEHP, DCHP, DNOP, DINP and DDP. While the most dominant PAEs in the packaging material were determined as DEHP, the most dominant PAEs in fish meat were recorded as BBP and the lowest as DMP. The findings provide a motivating model for monitoring the presence and migration of PAEs in foods, while filling an important gap in maintaining a safe food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonca Alak
- Department of Seafood Processing Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, TR-25030, Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Mine Köktürk
- Department of Organic Agriculture Management, Faculty of Applied Science, Igdir University, TR- 76000, Igdir, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Atamanalp
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Ataturk University, TR-25030, Erzurum, Turkey
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26
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Chen W, Zheng X, Yan F, Xu L, Ye X. Modulation of Gut Microbial Metabolism by Cyanidin-3- O-Glucoside in Mitigating Polystyrene-Induced Colonic Inflammation: Insights from 16S rRNA Sequencing and Metabolomics. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:7140-7154. [PMID: 38518253 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics derived from plastic waste have emerged as a pervasive environmental pollutant with potential transfer and accumulation through the food chain, thus posing risks to both ecosystems and human health. The gut microbiota, tightly intertwined with metabolic processes, exert substantial influences on host physiology by utilizing dietary compounds and generating bacterial metabolites such as tryptophan and bile acid. Our previous studies have demonstrated that exposure to microplastic polystyrene (PS) disrupts the gut microbiota and induces colonic inflammation. Meanwhile, intervention with cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), a natural anthocyanin derived from red bayberry, could mitigate colonic inflammation by reshaping the gut bacterial composition. Despite these findings, the specific influence of gut bacteria and their metabolites on alleviating colonic inflammation through C3G intervention remains incompletely elucidated. Therefore, employing a C57BL/6 mouse model, this study aims to investigate the mechanisms underlying how C3G modulates gut bacteria and their metabolites to alleviate colonic inflammation. Notably, our findings demonstrated the efficacy of C3G in reversing the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) and the upregulation of mRNA expression (Il-6, Il-1β, and Tnf-α) induced by PS exposure. Meanwhile, C3G effectively inhibited the reduction in levels (IL-22, IL-10, and IL-4) and the downregulation of mRNA expression (Il-22, Il-10, and Il-4) of anti-inflammatory cytokines induced by PS exposure. Moreover, PS-induced phosphorylation of the transcription factor NF-κB in the nucleus, as well as the increased level of protein expression of iNOS and COX-2 in the colon, were inhibited by C3G. Metabolisms of gut bacterial tryptophan and bile acids have been extensively implicated in the regulation of inflammatory processes. The 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing disclosed that PS treatment significantly increased the abundance of pro-inflammatory bacteria (Desulfovibrio, norank_f_Oscillospiraceae, Helicobacter, and Lachnoclostridium) while decreasing the abundance of anti-inflammatory bacteria (Dubosiella, Akkermansia, and Alistipes). Intriguingly, C3G intervention reversed these pro-inflammatory changes in bacterial abundances and augmented the enrichment of bacterial genes involved in tryptophan and bile acid metabolism pathways. Furthermore, untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed the notable upregulation of metabolites associated with tryptophan metabolism (shikimate, l-tryptophan, indole-3-lactic acid, and N-acetylserotonin) and bile acid metabolism (3b-hydroxy-5-cholenoic acid, chenodeoxycholate, taurine, and lithocholic acid) following C3G administration. Collectively, these findings shed new light on the protective effects of dietary C3G against PS exposure and underscore the involvement of specific gut bacterial metabolites in the amelioration of colonic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Chen
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311215, China
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fujie Yan
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lizhou Xu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311215, China
| | - Xiang Ye
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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27
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Zheng S, Wang WX. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Profiling Cellular Heterogeneity and Specific Responses of Fish Gills to Microplastics and Nanoplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:5974-5986. [PMID: 38512049 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Fish gills are highly sensitive organs for microplastic (MP) and nanoplastic (NP) invasions, but the cellular heterogeneity of fish gills to MPs and NPs remains largely unknown. We employed single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate the responses of individual cell populations in tilapia Oreochromis niloticus gills to MP and NP exposure at an environmentally relevant concentration. Based on the detected differentially expressed gene (DEG) numbers, the most affected immune cells by MP exposure were macrophages, while the stimulus of NPs primarily targeted T cells. In response to MPs and NPs, H+-ATPase-rich cells exhibited distinct changes as compared with Na+/K+-ATPase-rich cells and pavement cells. Fibroblasts were identified as a potential sensitive cell-type biomarker for MP interaction with O. niloticus gills, as evidenced by the largely reduced cell counts and the mostly detected DEGs among the 12 identified cell populations. The most MP-sensitive fibroblast subpopulation in O. niloticus gills was lipofibroblasts. Cell-cell communications between fibroblasts and H+-ATPase-rich cells, neurons, macrophages, neuroepithelial cells, and Na+/K+-ATPase-rich cells in O. niloticus gills were significantly inhibited by MP exposure. Collectively, our study demonstrated the cellular heterogeneity of O. niloticus gills to MPs and NPs and provided sensitive markers for their toxicological mechanisms at single-cell resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Zheng
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
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28
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Wohlleben W, Bossa N, Mitrano DM, Scott K. Everything falls apart: How solids degrade and release nanomaterials, composite fragments, and microplastics. NANOIMPACT 2024; 34:100510. [PMID: 38759729 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
To ensure the safe use of materials, one must assess the identity and quantity of exposure. Solid materials, such as plastics, metals, coatings and cements, degrade to some extent during their life cycle, and releases can occur during manufacturing, use and end-of-life. Releases (e.g., what is released, how does release happen, and how much material is released) depend on the composition and internal (nano)structures of the material as well as the applied stresses during the lifecycle. We consider, in some depth, releases from mechanical, weathering and thermal stresses and specifically address the use cases of fused-filament 3D printing, dermal contact, food contact and textile washing. Solid materials can release embedded nanomaterials, composite fragments, or micro- and nanoplastics, as well as volatile organics, ions and dissolved organics. The identity of the release is often a heterogenous mixture and requires adapted strategies for sampling and analysis, with suitable quality control measures. Control materials enhance robustness by enabling comparative testing, but reference materials are not always available as yet. The quantity of releases is typically described by time-dependent rates that are modulated by the nature and intensity of the applied stress, the chemical identity of the polymer or other solid matrix, and the chemical identity and compatibility of embedded engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) or other additives. Standardization of methods and the documentation of metadata, including all the above descriptors of the tested material, applied stresses, sampling and analytics, are identified as important needs to advance the field and to generate robust, comparable assessments. In this regard, there are strong methodological synergies between the study of all solid materials, including the study of micro- and nanoplastics. From an outlook perspective, we review the hazard of the released entities, and show how this informs risk assessment. We also address the transfer of methods to related issues such as tyre wear, advanced materials and advanced manufacturing, biodegradable polymers, and non-solid matrices. As the consideration of released entities will become more routine in industry via lifecycle assessment in Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design practices, release assessments will require careful design of the study with quality controls, the use of agreed-on test materials and standardized methods where these exist and the adoption of clearly defined data reporting practices that enable data reuse, meta-analyses, and comparative studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendel Wohlleben
- BASF SE, Dept. of Analytical and Materials Science, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany.
| | - Nathan Bossa
- TEMAS Solutions GmbH, Lätterweg 5, 5212 Hausen, Switzerland; Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Denise M Mitrano
- Environmental Systems Science Department, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Keana Scott
- Materials Measurement Science Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, MS-8372, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, United States
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29
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Microplastics are everywhere - we need to understand how they affect human health. Nat Med 2024; 30:913. [PMID: 38641740 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02968-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
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30
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He M, Huang Y, Zhang X, Zhu W, Shao W, Wang J, Xu D, Yao W. Flexible cellulose nanofibers/MXene composite films for UV-shielding packaging. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130821. [PMID: 38484816 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Cellulose nanofibers (CNF) based films are promising packaging materials, but the lack of special functions (especially UV-shielding property) usually restrict their further applications. In this work, MXene was incorporated into the CNF film by a direct solvent volatilization induced film forming method to study its UV-shielding property for the first time, which avoided the using of a vacuum filtration equipment. The composite films containing glycerin could be folded repeatedly without breaking, showing good flexibility. The structure and properties of MXene/CNF composite films (CMF) were characterized systematically. The results showed that MXene distributed uniformly in the CNF film matrix and there was strong hydrogen bonding interaction between CNF and MXene. The tensile strength and Young's modulus of the composite films could reach 117.5 MPa and 2.23 GPa, which was 54.1 % and 59.2 % higher than those of pure CNF film, respectively. With the increase of MXene content, both the UVA and UVB shielding percentages increased significantly from 17.2 % and 25.5 % to 100.0 %, showing excellent UV-shielding property. Moreover, CMF exhibited a low oxygen permeability (OP) value of 0.39 cc μm d-1 m-2 kPa-1, a low water vapor permeability (WVP) value of 5.13 × 10-11 g-1s-1Pa-1 and a high antibacterial rate against E. coli (94.1 % at 24 h), showing potential application in the packaging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng He
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China.
| | - Yujia Huang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Xinjiang Zhang
- Guangxi Colleges and Universities Key Laboratory of Environmental-friendly Materials and New Technology for Carbon Neutralization, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Advanced Structural Materials and Carbon Neutralization, School of Materials and Environment, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530105, China
| | - Wenyu Zhu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Wenjing Shao
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Jinhua Wang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Dingfeng Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China.
| | - Wei Yao
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Technology in Environmental Protection of Jiangsu Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
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Ma L, Wu Z, Lu Z, Yan L, Dong X, Dai Z, Sun R, Hong P, Zhou C, Li C. Differences in toxicity induced by the various polymer types of nanoplastics on HepG2 cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170664. [PMID: 38311080 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The problem of microplastics (MPs) contamination in food has gradually come to the fore. MPs can be transmitted through the food chain and accumulate within various organisms, ultimately posing a threat to human health. The concentration of nanoplastics (NPs) exposed to humans may be higher than that of MPs. For the first time, we studied the differences in toxicity, and potential toxic effects of different polymer types of NPs, namely, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS) on HepG2 cells. In this study, PET-NPs, PVC-NPs, and PS-NPs, which had similar particle size, surface charge, and shape, were prepared using nanoprecipitation and emulsion polymerization. The results of the CCK-8 assay showed that the PET-NPs and PVC-NPs induced a decrease in cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner, and their lowest concentrations causing significant cytotoxicity were 100 and 150 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the major cytotoxic effects of PET-NPs and PVC-NPs at high concentrations may be to induce an increase in intracellular ROS, which in turn induces cellular damage and other toxic effects. Notably, our study suggested that PET-NPs and PVC-NPs may induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. However, no relevant cytotoxicity, oxidative damage, and apoptotic toxic effects were detected in HepG2 cells with exposure to PS-NPs. Furthermore, the analysis of transcriptomics data suggested that PET-NPs and PVC-NPs could significantly inhibit the expression of DNA repair-related genes in the p53 signaling pathway. Compared to PS-NPs, the expression levels of lipid metabolism-related genes were down-regulated to a greater extent by PET-NPs and PVC-NPs. In conclusion, PET-NPs and PVC-NPs were able to induce higher cytotoxic effects than PS-NPs, in which the density and chemical structure of NPs of different polymer types may be the key factors causing the differences in toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Ma
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zijie Wu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zifan Lu
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Linhong Yan
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Xiaoling Dong
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Zhenqing Dai
- Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen 518108, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Intelligent Equipment for South China Sea Marine Ranching, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Ruikun Sun
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Pengzhi Hong
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Chunxia Zhou
- College of Food Science and Technology, Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Safety, Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Marine Biological Products, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Seafood, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Chengyong Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen 518108, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Intelligent Equipment for South China Sea Marine Ranching, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Guangdong Provincial Observation and Research Station for Tropical Ocean Environment in Western Coastal Water, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China.
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32
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Duncan TV, Khan SA, Patri AK, Wiggins S. Regulatory Science Perspective on the Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Human Food. Anal Chem 2024; 96:4343-4358. [PMID: 38452774 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are increasingly reported, not only in the environment but also in a wide range of food commodities. While studies on microplastics in food abound, the current state of science is limited in its application to regulatory risk assessment by a continued lack of standardized definitions, reference materials, sample collection and preparation procedures, fit-for purpose analytical methods for real-world and environmentally relevant plastic mixtures, and appropriate quality controls. This is particularly the case for nanoplastics. These methodological challenges hinder robust, quantitative exposure assessments of microplastic and nanoplastic mixtures from food consumption. Furthermore, limited toxicological studies on whether microplastics and nanoplastics adversely impact human health are also impeded by methodology challenges. Food safety regulatory agencies must consider both the exposure and the risk of contaminants of emerging concern to ascertain potential harm. Foundational to this effort is access to and application of analytical methods with the capability to quantify and characterize micro- and nanoscale sized polymers in complex food matrices. However, the early stages of method development and application of early stage methods to study the distribution and potential health effects of microplastics and nanoplastics in food have largely been done without consideration of the stringent requirements of methods to inform regulatory activities. We provide regulatory science perspectives on the state of knowledge regarding the occurrence of microplastics and nanoplastics in food and present our general approach for developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods for regulatory purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy V Duncan
- Division of Food Processing Science and Technology, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, Bedford Park, Illinois 60501, United States
| | - Sadia Afrin Khan
- Division of Analytical Chemistry, Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
| | - Anil K Patri
- Nanotechnology Core Facility, Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, United States Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, Arkansas 72029, United States
| | - Stacey Wiggins
- Division of Seafood Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
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Hu L, Feng X, Lan Y, Zhang J, Nie P, Xu H. Co-exposure with cadmium elevates the toxicity of microplastics: Trojan horse effect from the perspective of intestinal barrier. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133587. [PMID: 38280329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been shown to adsorb heavy metals and serve as vehicles for their environmental transport. To date, insufficient studies have focused on enterohepatic injury in mice co-exposed to both MPs and cadmium (Cd). Here, we report that Cd adsorption increased the surface roughness and decreased the monodispersity of PS-MPs. Furthermore, exposure to both PS-MPs and Cd resulted in a more severe toxic effect compared to single exposure, with decreased body weight gain, shortened colon length, and increased colonic and hepatic inflammatory response observed. This can be attributed to an elevated accumulation of Cd resulting from increased gut permeability, coupled with the superimposed effects of oxidative stress. In addition, using 16 S sequencing and fecal microbiota transplantation, it was demonstrated that gut microbiota dysbiosis plays an essential role in the synergistic toxicity induced by PS-MPs and Cd in mice. This study showed that combined exposure to MPs and Cd induced more severe intestinal and liver damage in mice compared to individual exposure, and provided a new perspective for a more systematic risk assessment process related to MPs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liehai Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Yuzhi Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Jingfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Penghui Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China; International Institute of Food Innovation Co., Ltd., Nanchang University, Nanchang 330200, PR China.
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Zeng G, Li J, Wang Y, Su J, Lu Z, Zhang F, Ding W. Polystyrene microplastic-induced oxidative stress triggers intestinal barrier dysfunction via the NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β/MCLK pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123473. [PMID: 38301820 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Emerging evidence has demonstrated the association between microplastics (MPs) with a diameter of <5 mm and the risk of intestinal diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms contributing to MP-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction have not been fully appreciated. In this study, C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs, 0.2, 1 or 5 μm) at 1 mg/kg body weight daily by oral gavage for 28 days. We found that PS-MPs exposure induced oxidative stress and inflammatory cell infiltration in mice colon, leading to an increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine. Moreover, there were an increase in intestinal permeability and decrease in mucus secretion, accompanied by downregulation of tight junction (TJ)-related zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), occluding (OCLN) and claudin-1 (CLDN-1) in mice colon. Especially, 5 μm PS-MPs (PS5)-induced intestinal epithelial TJ barrier damage was more severe than 0.2 μm PS-MPs (PS0.2) and 1 μm PS-MPs (PS1). In vitro experiments indicated that PS5-induced oxidative stress upregulated the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). Meanwhile, pre-treatment with the antioxidant NAC, NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 and MLCK inhibitor ML-7 considerably reduced PS5-triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and inflammatory response, inhibited the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/MLCK pathway, and upregulated ZO-1, OCLN and CLDN-1 expression in Caco-2 cells. Taken together, our study demonstrated that PS-MPs cause intestinal barrier dysfunction through the ROS-dependent NF-κB/NLRP3/IL-1β/MLCK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Zeng
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuanli Wang
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingran Su
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhongbing Lu
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wenjun Ding
- Laboratory of Environment and Health, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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35
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Gou X, Fu Y, Li J, Xiang J, Yang M, Zhang Y. Impact of nanoplastics on Alzheimer 's disease: Enhanced amyloid-β peptide aggregation and augmented neurotoxicity. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133518. [PMID: 38228001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133518] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics, widely existing in the environment and organisms, have been proven to cross the blood-brain barrier, increasing the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, current studies mainly focus on the neurotoxicity of nanoplastics themselves, neglecting their synergistic effects with other biomolecules and the resulting neurotoxicity. Amyloid β peptide (Aβ), which triggers neurotoxicity through its self-aggregation, is the paramount pathogenic protein in AD. Here, employing polystyrene nanoparticles (PS) as a model for nanoplastics, we reveal that 100 pM PS nanoparticles significantly accelerate the nucleation rate of two Aβ subtypes (Aβ40 and Aβ42) at low concentrations, promoting the formation of more Aβ oligomers and leading to evident neurotoxicity. The hydrophobic surface of PS facilitates the interaction of hydrophobic fragments between Aβ monomers, responsible for the augmented neurotoxicity. This work provides consequential insights into the modulatory impact of low-dose PS on Aβ aggregation and the ensuing neurotoxicity, presenting a valuable foundation for future research on the intricate interplay between environmental toxins and brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Gou
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Yongchun Fu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Juan Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Juan Xiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Minghui Yang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
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36
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Woźniak-Budych M, Staszak K, Wieszczycka K, Bajek A, Staszak M, Roszkowski S, Giamberini M, Tylkowski B. Microplastic label in microencapsulation field - Consequence of shell material selection. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133000. [PMID: 38029585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Plastics make our lives easier in many ways; however, if they are not appropriately disposed of or recycled, they may end up in the environment where they stay for centuries and degrade into smaller and smaller pieces, called microplastics. Each year, approximately 42000 tonnes of microplastics end up in the environment when products containing them are used. According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) one of the significant sources of microplastics are microcapsules formulated in home care and consumer care products. As part of the EU's plastics strategy, ECHA has proposed new regulations to ban intentionally added microplastics starting from 2022. It means that the current cross-linked microcapsules widely applied in consumer goods must be transformed into biodegradable shell capsules. The aim of this review is to provide the readers with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of recent developments in the art of microencapsulation. Thus, considering the chemical structure of the capsule shell's materials, we discuss whether microcapsules should also be categorized as microplastic and therefore, feared and avoided or whether they should be used despite the persisting concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Woźniak-Budych
- NanoBioMedical Centre, Adam Mickiewicz University, Wszechnicy Piastowskiej 3, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Staszak
- Institute of Technology and Chemical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
| | - Karolina Wieszczycka
- Institute of Technology and Chemical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Bajek
- Tissue Engineering Department, Chair of Urology and Andrology, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, ul. Karlowicza str 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Maciej Staszak
- Institute of Technology and Chemical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznan, Poland
| | - Szymon Roszkowski
- Department of Geriatrics, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, ul. Jagiellonska 13/15, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Marta Giamberini
- Department of Chemical Engineering (DEQ), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans, 26, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Bartosz Tylkowski
- Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, Unitat de Tecnologia Química, Marcel·lí Domingo 2, 43007 Tarragona, Spain; Department of Clinical Neuropsychology, Faculty of Health Science, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, ul. Sklodowskiej Curie 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland.
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37
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Liu K, Li Q, Andrady AL, Wang X, He Y, Li D. Underestimated activity-based microplastic intake under scenario-specific exposures. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 18:100316. [PMID: 37860830 PMCID: PMC10583090 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2023.100316] [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: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Despite increasing alarms over the health impacts of microplastics (MPs) due to their detection in human organs and feces, precise exposure evaluations remain scarce. To comprehend their risks, there is a distinct need to prioritize quantitive estimates in MP exposome, particularly at the environmentally-realistic level. Here we used a method rooted in real-world MP measurements and activity patterns to determine the daily intake of MPs through inhalation and from ground dust/soil ingestion. We found that nearly 80% of this intake comes from residential sectors, with activity intensity and behavioral types significantly affecting the human MP burden. The data showed a peak in MP exposure for those aged 18-64. When compared to dietary MP intake sources like seafood, salt, and water, we identified a previously underestimated exposure from inhalation and dust/soil ingestion, emphasizing the need for more realistic evaluations that incorporate activity factors. This discovery raises questions about the accuracy of past studies and underscores MP's potential health risks. Moreover, our time-based simulations revealed increased MP intake during the COVID-19 lockdown due to more surface dust ingestion, shedding light on how global health crises may inadvertently elevate MP exposure risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Plastic Marine Debris Research Center, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
- Regional Training and Research Center on Plastic Marine Debris and Microplastics, IOC-UNESCO, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Qingqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Regional Training and Research Center on Plastic Marine Debris and Microplastics, IOC-UNESCO, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Anthony L. Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Plastic Marine Debris Research Center, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
- Regional Training and Research Center on Plastic Marine Debris and Microplastics, IOC-UNESCO, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Yinan He
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Plastic Marine Debris Research Center, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
- Regional Training and Research Center on Plastic Marine Debris and Microplastics, IOC-UNESCO, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Daoji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Plastic Marine Debris Research Center, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
- Regional Training and Research Center on Plastic Marine Debris and Microplastics, IOC-UNESCO, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China
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Jeong B, Kim JS, Kwon AR, Lee J, Park S, Koo J, Lee WS, Baek JY, Shin WH, Lee JS, Jeong J, Kim WK, Jung CR, Kim NS, Cho SH, Lee DY. Maternal nanoplastic ingestion induces an increase in offspring body weight through altered lipid species and microbiota. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 185:108522. [PMID: 38401434 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
The rapidly increasing prevalence of obesity and overweight, especially in children and adolescents, has become a serious societal issue. Although various genetic and environmental risk factors for pediatric obesity and overweight have been identified, the problem has not been solved. In this study, we examined whether environmental nanoplastic (NP) pollutants can act as environmental obesogens using mouse models exposed to NPs derived from polystyrene and polypropylene, which are abundant in the environment. We found abnormal weight gain in the progeny until 6 weeks of age following the oral administration of NPs to the mother during gestation and lactation. Through a series of experiments involving multi-omic analyses, we have demonstrated that NP-induced weight gain is caused by alterations in the lipid composition (lysophosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylcholine ratio) of maternal breast milk and he gut microbiota distribution of the progeny. These data indicate that environmental NPs can act as obesogens in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohyeon Jeong
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Ji-Sun Kim
- Korean Collection for Type Cultures, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup, 56212, South Korea
| | - A Ra Kwon
- Chemical Analysis Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon 34114, South Korea
| | - Jangjae Lee
- Chemical Analysis Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon 34114, South Korea; Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Subin Park
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Jahong Koo
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea; KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Wang Sik Lee
- Environmental Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Jeong Yeob Baek
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Won-Ho Shin
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, South Korea
| | - Jung-Sook Lee
- Korean Collection for Type Cultures, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup, 56212, South Korea; KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jinyoung Jeong
- KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea; Environmental Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Won Kon Kim
- KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea; Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Cho-Rok Jung
- KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea; Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Nam-Soon Kim
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea; KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Cho
- Chemical Analysis Center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon 34114, South Korea.
| | - Da Yong Lee
- Rare Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, South Korea; KRIBB School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea.
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39
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Kataria N, Yadav S, Garg VK, Rene ER, Jiang JJ, Rose PK, Kumar M, Khoo KS. Occurrence, transport, and toxicity of microplastics in tropical food chains: perspectives view and way forward. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:98. [PMID: 38393462 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01862-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, which have a diameter of less than 5 mm, are becoming an increasingly prevalent contaminant in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems due to the dramatic increase in plastic production to 390.7 million tonnes in 2021. Among all the plastics produced since 1950, nearly 80% ended up in the environment or landfills and eventually reached the oceans. Currently, 82-358 trillion plastic particles, equivalent to 1.1-4.9 million tonnes by weight, are floating on the ocean's surface. The interactions between microorganisms and microplastics have led to the transportation of other associated pollutants to higher trophic levels of the food chain, where microplastics eventually reach plants, animals, and top predators. This review paper focuses on the interactions and origins of microplastics in diverse environmental compartments that involve terrestrial and aquatic food chains. The present review study also critically discusses the toxicity potential of microplastics in the food chain. This systematic review critically identified 206 publications from 2010 to 2022, specifically reported on microplastic transport and ecotoxicological impact in aquatic and terrestrial food chains. Based on the ScienceDirect database, the total number of studies with "microplastic" as the keyword in their title increased from 75 to 4813 between 2010 and 2022. Furthermore, various contaminants are discussed, including how microplastics act as a vector to reach organisms after ingestion. This review paper would provide useful perspectives in comprehending the possible effects of microplastics and associated contaminants from primary producers to the highest trophic level (i.e. human health).
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Affiliation(s)
- Navish Kataria
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, Haryana, 121006, India
| | - Sangita Yadav
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Vinod Kumar Garg
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151001, India
| | - Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2601 DA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Advanced Environmental Ultra Research Laboratory (ADVENTURE), Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Center for Environmental Risk Management (CERM), Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Pawan Kumar Rose
- Department of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, Haryana, 125055, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Kuan Shiong Khoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India.
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40
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Liu K, Zhu L, Wei N, Li D. Underappreciated microplastic galaxy biases the filter-based quantification. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132897. [PMID: 37935065 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Long-term environmental loading of microplastics (MPs) causes alarming exposure risks for a variety of species worldwide, considered a planetary threat to the well-being of ecosystems. Robust quantitative estimates of MP extents and featured diversity are the basis for comprehending their environmental implications precisely, and of these methods, membrane-based characterizations predominate with respect to MP inspections. However, though crucial to filter-based MP quantification, aggregation statuses of retained MPs on these substrates remain poorly understood, leaving us a "blind box" that exaggerates uncertainty in quantitive strategies of preselected areas without knowing overview loading structure. To clarify this uncertainty and estimate their impacts on MP counting, using MP imaging data assembled from peer-reviewed studies through a systematic review, here we analyze the particle-specific profiles of MPs retained on various substrates according to their centre of mass with a fast-random forests algorithm. We visualize the formation of distinct galaxy-like MP aggregation-similar to the solar system and Milky Way System comprised of countless stars-across the pristine and environmental samples by leveraging two spatial parameters developed in this study. This unique pattern greatly challenges the homogeneously or randomly distributed MP presumption adopted extensively for simplified membrane-based quantification purposes and selective ROI (region of interest) estimates for smaller-sized plastics down to the nano-range, as well as the compatibility theory using pristine MPs as the standard to quantify the presence of environmental MPs. Furthermore, our evaluation with exemplified numeration cases confirms these location-specific and area-dependent biases in many imaging analyses of a selective filter area, ascribed to the minimum possibility of reaching an ideal turnover point for the selective quantitive strategies. Consequently, disproportionate MP schemes on loading substrates yield great uncertainty in their quantification processing, highlighting the prompt need to include pattern-resolved calibration prior to quantification. Our findings substantially advance our understanding of the structure, behavior, and formation of these MP aggregating statuses on filtering substrates, addressing a fundamental question puzzling scientists as to why reproducible MP quantification is barely achievable even for subsamples. This study inspires the following studies to reconsider the impacts of aggregating patterns on the effective counting protocols and target-specific removal of retained MP aggregates through membrane separation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Lixin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; Marine and Environmental Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nian Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; Norwegian Institute for Water Research, 94 Økernveien, Oslo 0579, Norway
| | - Daoji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
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41
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Li P, Liu J. Micro(nano)plastics in the Human Body: Sources, Occurrences, Fates, and Health Risks. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38315819 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The increasing global attention on micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) is a result of their ubiquity in the water, air, soil, and biosphere, exposing humans to MNPs on a daily basis and threatening human health. However, crucial data on MNPs in the human body, including the sources, occurrences, behaviors, and health risks, are limited, which greatly impedes any systematic assessment of their impact on the human body. To further understand the effects of MNPs on the human body, we must identify existing knowledge gaps that need to be immediately addressed and provide potential solutions to these issues. Herein, we examined the current literature on the sources, occurrences, and behaviors of MNPs in the human body as well as their potential health risks. Furthermore, we identified key knowledge gaps that must be resolved to comprehensively assess the effects of MNPs on human health. Additionally, we addressed that the complexity of MNPs and the lack of efficient analytical methods are the main barriers impeding current investigations on MNPs in the human body, necessitating the development of a standard and unified analytical method. Finally, we highlighted the need for interdisciplinary studies from environmental, biological, medical, chemical, computer, and material scientists to fill these knowledge gaps and drive further research. Considering the inevitability and daily occurrence of human exposure to MNPs, more studies are urgently required to enhance our understanding of their potential negative effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jingfu Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
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42
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Liang Y, Liu D, Zhan J, Liu X, Li P, Ma X, Hou H, Wang P. Polystyrene microplastics induce kidney injury via gut barrier dysfunction and C5a/C5aR pathway activation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:122909. [PMID: 38036092 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122909] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic is an emerging environmental pollutant with potential health risks. Recent studies have shown that microplastic could impair gut homeostasis in mammals. Although it has been widely demonstrated that gut dyshomeostasis could impact renal health through the gut-kidney axis, the effects of microplastic-induced gut dyshomeostasis on renal health and underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. In the current work, we found that polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) treatment impaired the gut barrier, increased urinary complement-activated product C5a levels and renal C5aR expression, leading to chronic kidney disease-related symptoms in mice. Restoring the gut barrier using an antibiotic mixture effectively alleviated PS-MPs-induced kidney injury, indicating the involvement of the gut-kidney axis in PS-MPs-induced renal injury. Moreover, it also mitigated PS-MPs-induced alterations in urinary C5a levels and renal C5aR expression, suggesting that the renal C5a/C5aR pathway might be involved in PS-MPs' impacts on the gut-kidney axis. Further experiments using a C5aR inhibitor, PMX53, verified the vital role of renal C5a/C5aR pathway activation in the development of kidney injury induced by PS-MPs. Collectively, our results suggest that PS-MPs induce kidney injury in mice by impairing the gut barrier, increasing C5a levels, and ultimately activating the renal C5a/C5aR pathway, highlighting the crucial role of the gut-kidney axis in PS-MPs-induced kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Liang
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China; College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, No. 30, Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Donghui Liu
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhan
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueke Liu
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Peize Li
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoran Ma
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Haonan Hou
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Wang
- College of Science, China Agricultural University, No. 2, West Yuanmingyuan Road, Beijing, 100193, People's Republic of China.
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43
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Lee SH, Lin WY, Cheng TJ. Microbiota-mediated metabolic perturbations in the gut and brain of mice after microplastic exposure. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 350:141026. [PMID: 38145850 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.141026] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), emerging environmental toxicants, have drawn attention because of their wide distribution in the environment. Exposure to MPs induces gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal barrier dysfunction, metabolic perturbations, and neurotoxicity in different rodents. However, the relationship between MPs, gut microbiota, and the metabolome of the gut and brain in mice remains unclear. In this study, female C57BL/6 mice were orally gavaged with vehicle, 200 nm MP, and 800 nm MP three times per week for four weeks. Cecal contents were collected for gut microbiota analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Intestinal and brain tissues from mice were used to determine metabolic profiles using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The results showed that MP altered microbiota composition, accompanied by metabolic perturbations in the mouse gut and brain. Specifically, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were suggested to be important phyla for MP exposure, partially dominating further metabolite alterations. Simultaneously, MP-induced metabolic profiles were associated with energy homeostasis and bile acid, nucleotide, and carnitine metabolic pathways. The results of the mediation analysis further revealed an MP-microbiota-metabolite relationship. Our results indicate that MPs can induce gut dysbiosis and disturb metabolic dysfunction in the mouse brain and/or intestine. Integrative omics approaches have the potential to monitor MP-induced molecular responses in various organs and systematically elucidate the complex mechanisms of human health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Han Lee
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Yu Lin
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Master of Public Health Degree Program, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsun-Jen Cheng
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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44
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Mikac L, Csáki A, Zentai B, Rigó I, Veres M, Tolić A, Gotić M, Ivanda M. UV Irradiation of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polypropylene and Detection of Formed Microplastic Particles Down to 1 μm. Chempluschem 2024; 89:e202300497. [PMID: 37882964 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202300497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The degradation of plastics upon UVC irradiation in aqueous solution and the formation of microplastic (MP) particles were investigated. Polypropylene (PP) and recycled and virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were irradiated with a UV lamp emitting light at 254 nm. Irradiation was performed for 15 and 30 min, respectively, at an intensity of about 0.3 W cm-2 . The formation of MP was studied by Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that MP particles were formed after irradiation and that their number was significantly higher in the recycled PET than in the virgin material. The number of PP MP formed was lower compared to PET and was not significantly different after 15 and 30 min. In addition, ethanol was used as an alternative solvent to investigate how its chemical properties and interactions with UVC irradiation affect the degradation of PET and PP plastics. The use of ethanol and recycled PET resulted in a lower number of MP particles at both irradiation times. When ethanol was used after 30 min of irradiation, significantly more PP MP formed. The different chemical structures of PET and PP combined with the different solvent properties of water and ethanol contribute to the differences in their susceptibility to UVC degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Mikac
- Molecular Physics and New Materials Synthesis Laboratory, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Csáki
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Benedek Zentai
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Rigó
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Veres
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 29-33, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ana Tolić
- Molecular Physics and New Materials Synthesis Laboratory, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijan Gotić
- Molecular Physics and New Materials Synthesis Laboratory, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mile Ivanda
- Molecular Physics and New Materials Synthesis Laboratory, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička 54, Zagreb, Croatia
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45
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Rhee H, Jeong S, Lee H, Cho MG, Choi DS. Rapid detection and identification of microplastics from nonchemically treated soil with CARS microspectroscopy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123080. [PMID: 38043768 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123080] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
In conventional microplastic (MP) analysis, acid or alkaline digestion is a necessary pretreatment step to remove residual organic matter from environmental samples. However, such a digestion process is not only cumbersome and time-consuming, but also possibly cause severe chemical damage to the MP itself, often making accurate MP characterization difficult. This study demonstrates that broadband coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microspectroscopy is useful for rapidly detecting and identifying MPs in natural soil without any digestion process. A feasibility test is performed with soil samples, which are known to require the most complicated chemical pretreatment for MP analysis, deliberately mixed with various MP particles. The C-H bond-specific CARS imaging and spectral analysis allow rapid MP particle search and chemical identification even in the presence of other residual particles and strongly fluorescent substances from the soil. It is anticipated that this nondestructive, chemical pretreatment-free CARS approach will be a beneficial tool for studying the ecological impacts of MPs absorbed by terrestrial life, such as plants and soil organisms, as well as for complementary analysis of MPs subject to chemical degradation by digestion in investigating the environmental contamination of the MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanju Rhee
- Seoul Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seulki Jeong
- Department of Environment and Energy, Sejong University, 209 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Hayeong Lee
- Seoul Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Gyu Cho
- Seoul Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Sik Choi
- R&D Center, Uniotech, Daejeon, 34013, Republic of Korea
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46
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Sly P, Nabhani KA, Sripada K, Kayama F. Microplastics in the Asia-Pacific Region in the Plasticene Era: Exposures and Health Risks. Ann Glob Health 2024; 90:8. [PMID: 38312716 PMCID: PMC10836168 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.4326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Within the broader Anthropocene Epoch resides the Plasticene Era, where humans are subjected pervasively to nano- and microplastics (NMPs). Human's widespread exposure with NMPs occurs through the air we breathe, water we drink, and food we eat. NMP sources are wide and varied; atmospheric NMPs are largely attributed to fibres from car tyres and synthetic clothing, while particles from food packaging, personal care products, and plastic manufacturing contribute significantly to food and water contamination. NMPs have become inherent within the human body and have been found in every organ. As such, the evidence base around adverse health effects is fragmented but growing. This article presents a mini-review and report of sessions presented about NMPs at the 19th International Conference of the Pacific Basin Consortium for Environment and Health, held on Jeju Island, in 2022. Abundant evidence of substantial exposure to NMPs in the Asia-Pacific region has been exhibited. Addressing this issue necessitates the collaboration of policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers to develop safer alternatives and implement mitigation and remediation strategies. The ongoing development of a new United Nations-led global plastic treaty presents a crucial opportunity that must be acted on and not be compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sly
- Children’s Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, AU
| | | | - Kam Sripada
- Centre for Digital Life Norway, Institute of Biotechnology & Food Science, Norwegian University of Science & Technology, NO
| | - Fujio Kayama
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, JP
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47
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Qian N, Gao X, Lang X, Deng H, Bratu TM, Chen Q, Stapleton P, Yan B, Min W. Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2300582121. [PMID: 38190543 PMCID: PMC10801917 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2300582121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics are now omnipresent in our daily lives. The existence of microplastics (1 µm to 5 mm in length) and possibly even nanoplastics (<1 μm) has recently raised health concerns. In particular, nanoplastics are believed to be more toxic since their smaller size renders them much more amenable, compared to microplastics, to enter the human body. However, detecting nanoplastics imposes tremendous analytical challenges on both the nano-level sensitivity and the plastic-identifying specificity, leading to a knowledge gap in this mysterious nanoworld surrounding us. To address these challenges, we developed a hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging platform with an automated plastic identification algorithm that allows micro-nano plastic analysis at the single-particle level with high chemical specificity and throughput. We first validated the sensitivity enhancement of the narrow band of SRS to enable high-speed single nanoplastic detection below 100 nm. We then devised a data-driven spectral matching algorithm to address spectral identification challenges imposed by sensitive narrow-band hyperspectral imaging and achieve robust determination of common plastic polymers. With the established technique, we studied the micro-nano plastics from bottled water as a model system. We successfully detected and identified nanoplastics from major plastic types. Micro-nano plastics concentrations were estimated to be about 2.4 ± 1.3 × 105 particles per liter of bottled water, about 90% of which are nanoplastics. This is orders of magnitude more than the microplastic abundance reported previously in bottled water. High-throughput single-particle counting revealed extraordinary particle heterogeneity and nonorthogonality between plastic composition and morphologies; the resulting multidimensional profiling sheds light on the science of nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naixin Qian
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xiaoqi Lang
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Huiping Deng
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | | | - Qixuan Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY10032
| | - Phoebe Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ08854
| | - Beizhan Yan
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | - Wei Min
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
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48
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Guo X, Dai H, He L. Migration testing of microplastics from selected water and food containers by Raman microscopy. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132798. [PMID: 37856957 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The migration of microplastics (MPs) from plastic food packaging has received increasing attention. Despite numerous studies quantifying MPs released from food packaging, there is lack of systematic investigation on migration of MPs from food packages under US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s guidance for food contact substances. Herein, we aimed to determine the quantity and size distribution of MPs migrating from water and food plastic containers following US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s guidance using Raman microscopy. Six commonly used water and food containers made of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS) were treated using distilled water and food stimulants (10% and 50% ethanol) under various conditions. A range of 23,702 to 490,330 particles per liter MPs with 77%- 92% smaller than 5 µm were detected, in which the PP food container exhibited the highest release of MPs when incubated with 50% ethanol at 130 °C for 15 min (equivalent to heating fatty food in a microwave). The temperature and food types were key attributes for elevating MP migration in general. Further comparison observed direct microwave (534,109 particles per liter) heating led to a significantly higher release of MPs compared to the FDA-suggested method (155,572 particles per liter). Part of MPs (12-63%) failed to be identified by Raman microscopy due to small particle size. Our estimation suggests that individuals might inhale up to 4511 MPs per kg per day. This research offers vital insights into MP migration from food and water containers, aiding in the development of relevant guidelines and facilitating MPs' risk assessment and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Guo
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 102 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Haochen Dai
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 102 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Lili He
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 102 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003, United States; Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 102 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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49
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Kamel AH, Hefnawy A, Hazeem LJ, Rashdan SA, Abd-Rabboh HSM. Current perspectives, challenges, and future directions in the electrochemical detection of microplastics. RSC Adv 2024; 14:2134-2158. [PMID: 38205235 PMCID: PMC10777194 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06755f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (5 μm) are a developing threat that contaminate every environmental compartment. The detection of these contaminants is undoubtedly an important topic of study because of their high potential to cause harm to ecosystems. For many years, scientists have been assiduously striving to surmount the obstacle of detection restrictions and minimize the likelihood of receiving results that are either false positives or false negatives. This study covers the current state of electrochemical sensing technology as well as its application as a low-cost analytical platform for the detection and characterization of novel contaminants. Examples of detection mechanisms, electrode modification procedures, device configuration, and performance are given to show how successful these approaches are for monitoring microplastics in the environment. Additionally included are the recent developments in nanoimpact techniques. Compared to electrochemical methods for microplastic remediation, the use of electrochemical sensors for microplastic detection has received very little attention. With an overview of microplastic electrochemical sensors, this review emphasizes the promise of existing electrochemical remediation platforms toward sensor design and development. In order to enhance the monitoring of these substances, a critical assessment of the requirements for future research, challenges associated with detection, and opportunities is provided. In addition to-or instead of-the now-in-use laboratory-based analytical equipment, these technologies can be utilized to support extensive research and manage issues pertaining to microplastics in the environment and other matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman H Kamel
- Department, College of Science, University of Bahrain Zallaq 32038 Kingdom of Bahrain
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University Cairo 11566 Egypt
| | - A Hefnawy
- Department, College of Science, University of Bahrain Zallaq 32038 Kingdom of Bahrain
- Department of Materials Science, Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University El-Shatby Alexandria 21526 Egypt
| | - Layla J Hazeem
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Bahrain Zallaq 32038 Bahrain
| | - Suad A Rashdan
- Department, College of Science, University of Bahrain Zallaq 32038 Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Hisham S M Abd-Rabboh
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University Abha 62529 Saudi Arabia
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50
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Li P, Li Q, Lai Y, Yang S, Yu S, Liu R, Jiang G, Liu J. Direct entry of micro(nano)plastics into human blood circulatory system by intravenous infusion. iScience 2023; 26:108454. [PMID: 38077139 PMCID: PMC10709129 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the pathways of human exposure to micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) is crucial for assessing their health impacts. Intravenous infusion can induce MNPs direct entry into the human blood, posing serious risks on human health, but remains unclear. Herein, we developed comprehensive analytical methods to detect polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MNPs down to 20 nm, and found about 0.52 μg equal to 105-1011 particles of PVC-MNPs released from intravenous infusion products (IVIPs) during each intravenous infusion of 250 mL injection. The released amounts of MNPs from IVIPs were dependent on the plastic materials, and the injection volume and composition. These findings indicated that the released MNPs should be directly introduced into the human blood circulatory system, causing serious impacts on human health. Our study reveals a previously ignored but important pathway of human exposure to MNPs, and calls for further research on the potential risks of these MNPs on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Li
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Qingcun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yujian Lai
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Shuping Yang
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Sujuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Rui Liu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Jingfu Liu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
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