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Papale M, Fazi S, Severini M, Scarinci R, Dell'Acqua O, Azzaro M, Venuti V, Fazio B, Fazio E, Crupi V, Irrera A, Rizzo C, Giudice AL, Caruso G. Structural properties and microbial diversity of the biofilm colonizing plastic substrates in Terra Nova Bay (Antarctica). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 943:173773. [PMID: 38844237 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173773] [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: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Microbial colonization on plastic polymers has been extensively explored, however the temporal dynamics of biofilm community in Antarctic environments are almost unknown. As a contribute to fill this knowledge gap, the structural characteristics and microbial diversity of the biofilm associated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) panels submerged at 5 m of depth and collected after 3, 9 and 12 months were investigated in four coastal sites of the Ross Sea. Additional panels placed at 5 and 20 m were retrieved after 12 months. Chemical characterization was performed by FTIR-ATR and Raman (through Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering, SERS) spectroscopy. Bacterial community composition was quantified at a single cell level by Catalyzed Reporter Deposition Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (CARD-FISH) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM); microbial diversity was assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This multidisciplinary approach has provided new insights into microbial community dynamics during biofouling process, shedding light on the biofilm diversity and temporal succession on plastic substrates in the Ross Sea. Significant differences between free-living and microbial biofilm communities were found, with a more consolidated and structured community composition on PVC compared to PE. Spectral features ascribable to tyrosine, polysaccharides, nucleic acids and lipids characterized the PVC-associated biofilms. Pseudomonadota (among Gamma-proteobacteria) and Alpha-proteobacteria dominated the microbial biofilm community. Interestingly, in Road Bay, close to the Italian "Mario Zucchelli" research station, the biofilm growth - already observed during summer season, after 3 months of submersion - continued afterwards leading to a massive microbial abundance at the end of winter (after 12 months). After 3 months, higher percentages of Gamma-proteobacteria in Road Bay than in the not-impacted site were found. These observations lead us to hypothesize that in this site microbial fouling developed during the first 3 months could serve as a starter pioneering community stimulating the successive growth during winter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Papale
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Stefano Fazi
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council (CNR-IRSA), Via Salaria km 29.300 CP10, 00015 Monterotondo, Rome, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maila Severini
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council (CNR-IRSA), Via Salaria km 29.300 CP10, 00015 Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Scarinci
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council (CNR-IRSA), Via Salaria km 29.300 CP10, 00015 Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Ombretta Dell'Acqua
- DISTAV, Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Genoa, Corso Europa, 26, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Azzaro
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Valentina Venuti
- Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Fazio
- URT "LabSens of Beyond Nano" of the Department of Physical Sciences and Technologies of Matter, National Research Council (CNR- DSFTM-ME), Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; Institute for Chemical and Physical Processes, National Research Council (CNR-IPCF), Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres, 37, 98158 Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Enza Fazio
- Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenza Crupi
- Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Irrera
- URT "LabSens of Beyond Nano" of the Department of Physical Sciences and Technologies of Matter, National Research Council (CNR- DSFTM-ME), Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy.
| | - Carmen Rizzo
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy; Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Sicily Marine Centre, Villa Pace, Contrada Porticatello 29, 98167 Messina, Italy
| | - Angelina Lo Giudice
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Caruso
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Spianata S. Raineri 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
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Yan X, Chio C, Li H, Zhu Y, Chen X, Qin W. Colonization characteristics and surface effects of microplastic biofilms: Implications for environmental behavior of typical pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 937:173141. [PMID: 38761927 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
This paper summarizes the colonization dynamics of biofilms on microplastics (MPs) surfaces in aquatic environments, encompassing bacterial characteristics, environmental factors affecting biofilm formation, and matrix types and characteristics. The interaction between biofilm and MPs was also discussed. Through summarizing recent literatures, it was found that MPs surfaces offer numerous benefits to microorganisms, including nutrient enrichment and enhanced resistance to environmental stress. Biofilm colonization changes the surface physical and chemical properties as well as the transport behavior of MPs. At the same time, biofilms also play an important role in the fragmentation and degradation of MPs. In addition, we also investigated the coexistence level, adsorption mechanism, enrichment, and transformation of MPs by environmental pollutants mediated by biofilms. Moreover, an interesting aspect about the colonization of biofilms was discussed. Biofilm colonization not only had a great effect on the accumulation of heavy metals by MPs, but also affects the interaction between particles and environmental pollutants, thereby changing their toxic effects and increasing the difficulty of MPs treatment. Consequently, further attention and research are warranted to delve into the internal mechanisms, environmental risks, and the control of the coexistence of MPs and biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiurong Yan
- College of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Shanxi Laboratory for Yellow River, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Chonlong Chio
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Hua Li
- College of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Shanxi Laboratory for Yellow River, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yuen Zhu
- College of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Shanxi Laboratory for Yellow River, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi Province, China; Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
| | - Xuantong Chen
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Wensheng Qin
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
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Ormsby MJ, Woodford L, White HL, Fellows R, Quilliam RS. The plastisphere can protect Salmonella Typhimurium from UV stress under simulated environmental conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 358:124464. [PMID: 38964649 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste is found with increasing frequency in the environment, in low- and middle-income countries. Plastic pollution has increased concurrently with both economic development and rapid urbanisation, amplifying the effects of inadequate waste management. Distinct microbial communities can quickly colonise plastic surfaces in what is collectively known as the 'plastisphere'. The plastisphere can act as a reservoir for human pathogenic bacteria, including Salmonella enterica sp. (such as S. Typhimurium), which can persist for long periods, retain pathogenicity, and pose an increased public health risk. Through employing a novel mesocosm setup, we have shown here that the plastisphere provides enhanced protection against environmental pressures such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation and allows S. Typhimurium to persist at concentrations (>1 × 103 CFU/ml) capable of causing human infection, for up to 28 days. Additionally, using a Galleria Mellonella model of infection, S. Typhimurium exhibits greater pathogenicity following recovery from the UV-exposed plastisphere, suggesting that the plastisphere may select for more virulent variants. This study demonstrates the protection afforded by the plastisphere and provides further evidence of environmental plastic waste acting as a reservoir for dangerous clinical pathogens. Quantifying the role of plastic pollution in facilitating the survival, persistence, and dissemination of human pathogens is critical for a more holistic understanding of the potential public health risks associated with plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Ormsby
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Luke Woodford
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Hannah L White
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Rosie Fellows
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Richard S Quilliam
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
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Valentine K, Hughes C, Boxall A. Plastic Litter Emits the Foraging Infochemical Dimethyl Sulfide after Submersion in Freshwater Rivers. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:1485-1496. [PMID: 38661488 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5880] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is widespread throughout aquatic environments globally, with many organisms known to interact with and ingest plastic. In marine environments, microbial biofilms that form on plastic surfaces can produce the odorous compound dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is a known foraging cue. This has been shown to increase the ingestion of plastic by some invertebrates and therefore act as a biological factor which influences the risks of plastic to marine ecosystems. In freshwater however, the production of DMS has been largely overlooked, despite the known sensitivity of some freshwater species to this compound. To address this gap, the present study analyzed the production of DMS by biofilms which formed on low-density polyethylene and polylactic acid films after 3 and 6 weeks of submersion in either a rural or an urban United Kingdom river. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, the production of DMS by these biofilms was consistently identified. The amount of DMS produced varied significantly across river locations and materials, with surfaces in the urban river generally producing a stronger signal and plastics producing up to seven times more DMS than glass control surfaces. Analysis of biofilm weight and photosynthetic pigment content indicated differences in biofilm composition across conditions and suggested that DMS production was largely driven by nonphotosynthetic taxa. For the first time this work has documented the production of DMS by plastic litter after submersion in freshwater rivers. Further work is now needed to determine if, as seen in marine systems, this production of DMS can encourage the interaction of freshwater organisms with plastic litter and therefore operate as a biological risk factor in the impacts of plastic on freshwater environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1485-1496. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katey Valentine
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- BeZero Carbon, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Hughes
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair Boxall
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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Yuan F, Zou X, Liao Q, Wang T, Zhang H, Xue Y, Chen H, Ding Y, Lu M, Song Y, Fu G. Insight into the bacterial community composition of the plastisphere in diverse environments of a coastal salt marsh. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 357:124465. [PMID: 38942280 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
The microbial community colonized on microplastics (MPs), known as the 'plastisphere', has attracted extensive concern owing to its environmental implications. Coastal salt marshes, which are crucial ecological assets, are considered sinks for MPs. Despite their strong spatial heterogeneity, there is limited information on plastisphere across diverse environments in coastal salt marshes. Herein, a 1-year field experiment was conducted at three sites in the Yancheng salt marsh in China. This included two sites in the intertidal zone, bare flat (BF) and Spartina alterniflora vegetation area (SA), and one site in the supratidal zone, Phragmites australis vegetation area (PA). Petroleum-based MPs (polyethylene and expanded polystyrene) and bio-based MPs (polylactic acid and polybutylene succinate) were employed. The results revealed significant differences in bacterial community composition between the plastisphere and sediment at all three sites examined, and the species enriched in the plastisphere exhibited location-specific characteristics. Overall, the largest difference was observed at the SA site, whereas the smallest difference was observed at the BF site. Furthermore, the MP polymer types influenced the composition of the bacterial communities in the plastisphere, also exhibiting location-specific characteristics, with the most pronounced impact observed at the PA site and the least at the BF site. The polybutylene succinate plastisphere bacterial communities at the SA and PA sites were quite different from the plastispheres from the other three MP polymer types. Co-occurrence network analyses suggested that the bacterial community network in the BF plastisphere exhibited the highest complexity, whereas the network in the SA plastisphere showed relatively sparse interactions. Null model analyses underscored the predominant role of deterministic processes in shaping the assembly of plastisphere bacterial communities across all three sites, with a more pronounced influence observed in the intertidal zone than in the supratidal zone. This study enriches our understanding of the plastisphere in coastal salt marshes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yuan
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xinqing Zou
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qihang Liao
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Teng Wang
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
| | - Hexi Zhang
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yue Xue
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yongcheng Ding
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ming Lu
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yuyang Song
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Guanghe Fu
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coast and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
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Featherstone AB, Mathijssen AJTM, Brown A, Chitlapilly Dass S. SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant remains viable in environmental biofilms found in meat packaging plants. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304504. [PMID: 38870232 PMCID: PMC11175435 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
To determine why SARS-CoV-2 appears to thrive specifically well in meat packaging plants, we used SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant and meat packaging plant drain samples to develop mixed-species biofilms on materials commonly found within meat packaging plants (stainless steel (SS), PVC, and ceramic tile). Our data provides evidence that SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant remained viable on all the surfaces tested with and without an environmental biofilm after the virus was inoculated with the biofilm for 5 days at 7°C. We observed that SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant was able to remain infectious with each of the environmental biofilms by conducting plaque assay and qPCR experiments, however, we detected a significant reduction in viability post-exposure to Plant B biofilm on SS, PVC, and on ceramic tile chips, and to Plant C biofilm on SS and PVC chips. The numbers of viable SARS-CoV-2 Delta viral particles was 1.81-4.57-fold high than the viral inoculum incubated with the Plant B and Plant C environmental biofilm on SS, and PVC chips. We did not detect a significant difference in viability when SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant was incubated with the biofilm obtained from Plant A on any of the materials tested and SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant had higher plaque numbers when inoculated with Plant C biofilm on tile chips, with a 2.75-fold difference compared to SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant on tile chips by itself. In addition, we detected an increase in the biofilm biovolume in response to SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant which is also a concern for food safety due to the potential for foodborne pathogens to respond likewise when they come into contact with the virus. These results indicate a complex virus-environmental biofilm interaction which correlates to the different bacteria found in each biofilm. Our results also indicate that there is the potential for biofilms to protect SARS-CoV-2 from disinfecting agents and remaining prevalent in meat packaging plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin B. Featherstone
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Arnold J. T. M. Mathijssen
- Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Amanda Brown
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sapna Chitlapilly Dass
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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de Vogel FA, Goudriaan M, Zettler ER, Niemann H, Eich A, Weber M, Lott C, Amaral-Zettler LA. Biodegradable plastics in Mediterranean coastal environments feature contrasting microbial succession. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 928:172288. [PMID: 38599394 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution of the ocean is a top environmental concern. Biodegradable plastics present a potential "solution" in combating the accumulation of plastic pollution, and their production is currently increasing. While these polymers will contribute to the future plastic marine debris budget, very little is known still about the behavior of biodegradable plastics in different natural environments. In this study, we molecularly profiled entire microbial communities on laboratory confirmed biodegradable polybutylene sebacate-co-terephthalate (PBSeT) and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) films, and non-biodegradable conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films that were incubated in situ in three different coastal environments in the Mediterranean Sea. Samples from a pelagic, benthic, and eulittoral habitat were taken at five timepoints during an incubation period of 22 months. We assessed the presence of potential biodegrading bacterial and fungal taxa and contrasted them against previously published in situ disintegration data of these polymers. Scanning electron microscopy imaging complemented our molecular data. Putative plastic degraders occurred in all environments, but there was no obvious "core" of shared plastic-specific microbes. While communities varied between polymers, the habitat predominantly selected for the underlying communities. Observed disintegration patterns did not necessarily match community patterns of putative plastic degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fons A de Vogel
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike Goudriaan
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands
| | - Erik R Zettler
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands
| | - Helge Niemann
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands; Faculty of Geosciences, Department of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.115, 3508 TC Utrecht, the Netherlands; CAGE-Centre for Arctic Gas Hydrate, Environment and Climate, Department of Geosciences, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Andreas Eich
- HYDRA Marine Sciences GmbH, D-77815 Bühl, Germany
| | - Miriam Weber
- HYDRA Marine Sciences GmbH, D-77815 Bühl, Germany
| | | | - Linda A Amaral-Zettler
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, the Netherlands; Department of Freshwater and Marine Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94240, 1090 GE Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Perchikov R, Cheliukanov M, Plekhanova Y, Tarasov S, Kharkova A, Butusov D, Arlyapov V, Nakamura H, Reshetilov A. Microbial Biofilms: Features of Formation and Potential for Use in Bioelectrochemical Devices. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:302. [PMID: 38920606 PMCID: PMC11201457 DOI: 10.3390/bios14060302] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Microbial biofilms present one of the most widespread forms of life on Earth. The formation of microbial communities on various surfaces presents a major challenge in a variety of fields, including medicine, the food industry, shipping, etc. At the same time, this process can also be used for the benefit of humans-in bioremediation, wastewater treatment, and various biotechnological processes. The main direction of using electroactive microbial biofilms is their incorporation into the composition of biosensor and biofuel cells This review examines the fundamental knowledge acquired about the structure and formation of biofilms, the properties they have when used in bioelectrochemical devices, and the characteristics of the formation of these structures on different surfaces. Special attention is given to the potential of applying the latest advances in genetic engineering in order to improve the performance of microbial biofilm-based devices and to regulate the processes that take place within them. Finally, we highlight possible ways of dealing with the drawbacks of using biofilms in the creation of highly efficient biosensors and biofuel cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Perchikov
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, Tula State University, Tula 300012, Russia; (R.P.); (M.C.); (A.K.); (V.A.)
| | - Maxim Cheliukanov
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, Tula State University, Tula 300012, Russia; (R.P.); (M.C.); (A.K.); (V.A.)
| | - Yulia Plekhanova
- Federal Research Center (Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences), G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (Y.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Sergei Tarasov
- Federal Research Center (Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences), G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (Y.P.); (S.T.)
| | - Anna Kharkova
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, Tula State University, Tula 300012, Russia; (R.P.); (M.C.); (A.K.); (V.A.)
| | - Denis Butusov
- Computer-Aided Design Department, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University “LETI”, Saint Petersburg 197022, Russia;
| | - Vyacheslav Arlyapov
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, Tula State University, Tula 300012, Russia; (R.P.); (M.C.); (A.K.); (V.A.)
| | - Hideaki Nakamura
- Department of Liberal Arts, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakura, Hachioji 192-0982, Tokyo, Japan;
| | - Anatoly Reshetilov
- Federal Research Center (Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences), G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (Y.P.); (S.T.)
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Ballesté E, Liang H, Migliorato L, Sala‐Comorera L, Méndez J, Garcia‐Aljaro C. Exploring plastic biofilm formation and Escherichia coli colonisation in marine environments. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13308. [PMID: 38924372 PMCID: PMC11196126 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms, including potential pathogens, can colonise plastic surfaces in aquatic environments. This study investigates the colonisation of plastic pellets by Escherichia coli (E. coli) as a proxy for faecal pathogens in aquatic environments. Plastic pellets from a polluted beach were placed in seawater aquaria spiked with E. coli. Diverse bacteria, primarily from the Proteobacteria phylum, rapidly colonised the pellets within 24 h, with notable species known for plastic or hydrocarbon degradation. Over 26 days, biofilms formed on the plastic surfaces, reaching bacterial populations of up to 6.8·105 gene copies (gc) of the 16S rRNA mm-2. E. coli, was detected in the pellets for up to 7 days using culture methods, exhibiting varying attachment densities regardless of source or environmental factors. The study highlights plastic biofilms as reservoirs for E. coli, contributing to the survival and persistence of faecal bacteria in aquatic systems. These findings deepen our understanding of the risks associated with plastic pollution in marine settings, offering insights into the behaviour of faecal indicators and their implications for water quality assessments, while providing valuable information on potential pathogen dissemination within plastic-associated microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisenda Ballesté
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Hongxia Liang
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- College of Resources and EnvironmentUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Beijing Municipal Ecological and Environmental Monitoring CenterBeijingChina
| | - Laura Migliorato
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Laura Sala‐Comorera
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Javier Méndez
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Cristina Garcia‐Aljaro
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Facultat de BiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
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10
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Di Cesare A, Sathicq MB, Sbaffi T, Sabatino R, Manca D, Breider F, Coudret S, Pinnell LJ, Turner JW, Corno G. Parity in bacterial communities and resistomes: Microplastic and natural organic particles in the Tyrrhenian Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116495. [PMID: 38759465 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116495] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Petroleum-based microplastic particles (MPs) are carriers of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic environments, influencing the selection and spread of antimicrobial resistance. This research characterized MP and natural organic particle (NOP) bacterial communities and resistomes in the Tyrrhenian Sea, a region impacted by plastic pollution and climate change. MP and NOP bacterial communities were similar but different from the free-living planktonic communities. Likewise, MP and NOP ARG abundances were similar but different (higher) from the planktonic communities. MP and NOP metagenome-assembled genomes contained ARGs associated with mobile genetic elements and exhibited co-occurrence with metal resistance genes. Overall, these findings show that MPs and NOPs harbor potential pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria, which can aid in the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Further, petroleum-based MPs do not represent novel ecological niches for allochthonous bacteria; rather, they synergize with NOPs, collectively facilitating the spread of antimicrobial resistance in marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Di Cesare
- National Research Council of Italy - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA) Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Verbania, Italy
| | - Maria Belen Sathicq
- Instituto de Limnología "Dr. Raúl A. Ringuelet" (ILPLA) CONICET-UNLP, Bv. 120 y 62 n1437, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tomasa Sbaffi
- National Research Council of Italy - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA) Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Verbania, Italy
| | - Raffaella Sabatino
- National Research Council of Italy - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA) Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Verbania, Italy
| | - Dario Manca
- National Research Council of Italy - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA) Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Verbania, Italy
| | - Florian Breider
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL, Central Environmental Laboratory, IIE, ENAC, Station 2, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Coudret
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne EPFL, Central Environmental Laboratory, IIE, ENAC, Station 2, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lee J Pinnell
- Veterinary Education, Research, and Outreach Program, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Turner
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Gianluca Corno
- National Research Council of Italy - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA) Molecular Ecology Group (MEG), Verbania, Italy.
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11
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Jacquin J, Budinich M, Chaffron S, Barbe V, Lombard F, Pedrotti ML, Gorsky G, Ter Halle A, Bruzaud S, Kedzierski M, Ghiglione JF. Niche partitioning and plastisphere core microbiomes in the two most plastic polluted zones of the world ocean. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:41118-41136. [PMID: 38844633 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33847-0] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are offering a new niche for microorganisms colonizing their surface, the so-called "plastisphere," in which diversity and community structure remain to be characterized and compared across ocean pelagic regions. Here, we compared the bacterial diversity of microorganisms living on plastic marine debris (PMD) and the surrounding free-living (FL) and organic particle-attached (PA) lifestyles sampled during the Tara expeditions in two of the most plastic polluted zones in the world ocean, i.e., the North Pacific gyre and the Mediterranean Sea. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis confirmed that PMD are a new anthropogenic ocean habitat for marine microbes at the ocean-basin-scale, with clear niche partitioning compared to FL and PA lifestyles. At an ocean-basin-scale, the composition of the plastisphere communities was mainly driven by environmental selection, rather than polymer types or dispersal effect. A plastisphere "core microbiome" could be identified, mainly dominated by Rhodobacteraceae and Cyanobacteria. Predicted functions indicated the dominance of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur metabolisms on PMD that open new questions on the role of the plastisphere in a large number of important ecological processes in the marine ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Jacquin
- UMR 7621, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne (LOMIC), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 1 Avenue Fabre, 66650, Banyuls Sur Mer, France
| | - Marko Budinich
- Laboratoire Adaptation Et Diversité en Milieu Marin, Station Biologique de Roscoff, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Roscoff, France
- Research Federation for the Study of Global Ocean Systems Ecology and Evolution, FR2022/Tara Oceans GOSEE, Paris, France
| | - Samuel Chaffron
- Research Federation for the Study of Global Ocean Systems Ecology and Evolution, FR2022/Tara Oceans GOSEE, Paris, France
- École Centrale Nantes, CNRS, LS2N, UMR 6004, Nantes Université, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Valérie Barbe
- Génomique Métabolique, Genoscope, Institut François Jacob, CEA, CNRS, Univ Evry, Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Fabien Lombard
- UMR 7076, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Villefranche Sur Mer, France
| | - Maria-Luiza Pedrotti
- UMR 7076, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Villefranche Sur Mer, France
| | - Gabriel Gorsky
- UMR 7076, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefranche, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Villefranche Sur Mer, France
| | - Alexandra Ter Halle
- Laboratoire SOFMAT, CNRS, Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, UMR 5623, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- UMR CNRS 6027, Institut de Recherche Dupuy de Lôme (IRDL), Université de Bretagne-Sud, Lorient, France
| | - Mikaël Kedzierski
- UMR CNRS 6027, Institut de Recherche Dupuy de Lôme (IRDL), Université de Bretagne-Sud, Lorient, France
| | - Jean-François Ghiglione
- UMR 7621, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne (LOMIC), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 1 Avenue Fabre, 66650, Banyuls Sur Mer, France.
- Research Federation for the Study of Global Ocean Systems Ecology and Evolution, FR2022/Tara Oceans GOSEE, Paris, France.
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12
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Abdolahpur Monikh F, Nguyen NHA, Bandekar M, Riha J, Bogialli S, Pastore P, Grossart HP, Sevcu A. Analytical methods for quantifying PS and PVC Nanoplastic attachment to activated sludge Bacteria and their impact on community structure. NANOIMPACT 2024; 35:100514. [PMID: 38821169 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics are anticipated to be ubiquitous in various environmental compartments. However, challenges in analytical methods hinder our understanding of risks related to specific nanplastics characteristics such as size and chemical compositions, and interactions between nanoplastics and microorganisms. In this study, we applied fit-for-purpose analytical methods and techniques to understand how nanoplastic chemical composition influences their interaction with bacteria collected from activated sludge. When exposed to polystyrene (PS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanoplastics for 5 days, the nanoplastics attached to the bacteria. Specifically, on day 1, there was a significant predominance of PS nanoplastics over PVC ones of similar size and shape, possibly due to differences in their chemical composition. After 5 days, there is a substantial decrease in nanoplastics attached to bacteria, suggesting bacterial defence mechanisms may reduce particles attachment over time. The overall bacterial community structure demonstrated a high degree of resilience. This resilience highlights the ability of microbial communities to maintain their structure despite nanoplastic stressors, as evidenced by consistent alpha diversity, PCoA, and PERMANOVA results. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for assessing nanoplastic fate and thus environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazel Abdolahpur Monikh
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic; Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, via Marzolo 1 - 35131, Padova, Italy; Department of Experimental Limnology, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhuette 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany.
| | - Nhung H A Nguyen
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Mandar Bandekar
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu/Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jakub Riha
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Sara Bogialli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, via Marzolo 1 - 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Pastore
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, via Marzolo 1 - 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Hans-Peter Grossart
- Department of Experimental Limnology, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhuette 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany; Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Potsdam University, Maulbeerallee 2, D-14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Alena Sevcu
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec Bendlova 1409/7, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentska 2, 460 01 Liberec, Czech Republic
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13
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Panthi G, Bajagain R, Chaudhary DK, Kim PG, Kwon JH, Hong Y. The release, degradation, and distribution of PVC microplastic-originated phthalate and non-phthalate plasticizers in sediments. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134167. [PMID: 38598880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134167] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the leaching of phthalate and non-phthalate plasticizers from polyvinyl chloride microplastics (MPs) into sediment and their degradation over a 30-d period via abiotic and biotic processes. The results showed that 3579% of plasticizers were released into the sediment from the MPs and > 99.9% degradation was achieved. Although a significantly higher degradation was found in plasticizer-added microcosms under biotic processes (overall, 94%), there was a noticeable abiotic loss (72%), suggesting that abiotic processes also play a role in plasticizer degradation. Interestingly, when compared with the initial sediment-water partitioning for plasticizers, the partition constants for low-molecular-weight compounds decreased in both microcosms, whereas those for high-molecular-weight compounds increased after abiotic degradation. Furthermore, changes in the bacterial community, abundance of plasticizer-degrading bacterial populations, and functional gene profiles were assessed. In all the microcosms, a decrease in bacterial community diversity and a notable shift in bacterial composition were observed. The enriched potential plasticizer-degrading bacteria were Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Desulfovibrio, Desulfuromonas, Devosia, Gordonia, Mycobacterium, and Sphingomonas, among which Bacillus was recognized as the key plasticizer degrader. Overall, these findings shed light on the factors affecting plasticizer degradation, the microbial communities potentially involved in biodegradation, and the fate of plasticizers in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Panthi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea University Sejong Campus, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Rishikesh Bajagain
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea University Sejong Campus, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Dhiraj Kumar Chaudhary
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea University Sejong Campus, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil-Gon Kim
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Department of Environmental Education, Mokpo National University, Muan, Jeonnam 58554, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongseok Hong
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Korea University Sejong Campus, 2511 Sejong-ro, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Bocci V, Galafassi S, Levantesi C, Crognale S, Amalfitano S, Congestri R, Matturro B, Rossetti S, Di Pippo F. Freshwater plastisphere: a review on biodiversity, risks, and biodegradation potential with implications for the aquatic ecosystem health. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1395401. [PMID: 38699475 PMCID: PMC11064797 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1395401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The plastisphere, a unique microbial biofilm community colonizing plastic debris and microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments, has attracted increasing attention owing to its ecological and public health implications. This review consolidates current state of knowledge on freshwater plastisphere, focussing on its biodiversity, community assembly, and interactions with environmental factors. Current biomolecular approaches revealed a variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic taxa associated with plastic surfaces. Despite their ecological importance, the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria and mobile genetic elements (i.e., antibiotic resistance genes) raises concerns for ecosystem and human health. However, the extent of these risks and their implications remain unclear. Advanced sequencing technologies are promising for elucidating the functions of plastisphere, particularly in plastic biodegradation processes. Overall, this review emphasizes the need for comprehensive studies to understand plastisphere dynamics in freshwater and to support effective management strategies to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on freshwater resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Bocci
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina Levantesi
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Crognale
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Amalfitano
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberta Congestri
- Laboratory of Biology of Algae, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruna Matturro
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Rossetti
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Pippo
- Water Research Institute, CNR-IRSA, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
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15
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Goudot S, Mathieu L, Herbelin P, Soreau S, Jorand FPA. Growth dynamic of biofilm-associated Naegleria fowleri in freshwater on various materials. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1369665. [PMID: 38511008 PMCID: PMC10951111 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1369665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In industrial water systems, the occurrence of biofilm-associated pathogenic free-living amoebae (FLA) such as Naegleria fowleri is a potential hygienic problem, and factors associated with its occurrence remain poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of four cooling circuit materials on the growth of N. fowleri in a freshwater biofilm formed at 42°C and under a hydrodynamic shear rate of 17 s-1 (laminar flow): polyvinyl chloride, stainless steel, brass, and titanium. Colonization of the freshwater biofilms by N. fowleri was found to be effective on polyvinyl chloride, stainless steel, and titanium. For these three materials, the ratio of (bacterial prey)/(amoeba) was found to control the growth of N. fowleri. All materials taken together, a maximum specific growth rate of 0.18 ± 0.07 h-1 was associated with a generation time of ~4 h. In contrast, no significant colonization of N. fowleri was found on brass. Therefore, the contribution of copper is strongly suspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Goudot
- EDF Recherche et Développement, Laboratoire National d'Hydraulique et Environnement, Chatou, France
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LCPME, Nancy, France
| | | | - Pascaline Herbelin
- EDF Recherche et Développement, Laboratoire National d'Hydraulique et Environnement, Chatou, France
| | - Sylvie Soreau
- EDF Recherche et Développement, Laboratoire National d'Hydraulique et Environnement, Chatou, France
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16
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Sabatino R, Zullo R, Di Cesare A, Piscia R, Musazzi S, Corno G, Volta P, Galafassi S. Traditional and biodegradable plastics host distinct and potentially more hazardous microbes when compared to both natural materials and planktonic community. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133166. [PMID: 38101010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic particles are persistent micropollutants that provide a substrate for the growth of bacterial biofilms, posing a threat to the environment. This study explores the changes in commercially available food containers made of conventional (polypropylene PP, polyethylene terephthalate PET), innovative biodegradable (Mater-Bi) and natural (wood and cellulose) materials, when introduced in the surface waters of Lake Maggiore for 43 days. Spectral changes revealed by FT-IR spectroscopy in PET and Mater-Bi, and changes in thermal properties of all human-made material tested indicated a degradation process occurred during environmental exposure. Despite similar bacterial richness, biofilms on PET, PP, and Mater-Bi differed from natural material biofilms and the planktonic community. Human-made material communities showed a higher proportion of potential pathogens, with PET and PP also exhibiting increased abundances of antibiotic resistance genes. Overall, these findings stress the need for dedicated strategies to curb the spread of human-made polymers in freshwaters, including innovative materials that, due to their biodegradable properties, might be perceived less hazardous for the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosa Zullo
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy.
| | - Andrea Di Cesare
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo 90133, Italy
| | - Roberta Piscia
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy
| | - Simona Musazzi
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy
| | - Gianluca Corno
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo 90133, Italy
| | - Pietro Volta
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Verbania, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo 90133, Italy
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17
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Parida D, Katare K, Ganguly A, Chakraborty D, Konar O, Nogueira R, Bala K. Molecular docking and metagenomics assisted mitigation of microplastic pollution. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141271. [PMID: 38262490 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141271] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, tiny, flimsy, and direct progenitors of principal and subsidiary plastics, cause environmental degradation in aquatic and terrestrial entities. Contamination concerns include irrevocable impacts, potential cytotoxicity, and negative health effects on mortals. The detection, recovery, and degradation strategies of these pollutants in various biota and ecosystems, as well as their impact on plants, animals, and humans, have been a topic of significant interest. But the natural environment is infested with several types of plastics, all having different chemical makeup, structure, shape, and origin. Plastic trash acts as a substrate for microbial growth, creating biofilms on the plastisphere surface. This colonizing microbial diversity can be glimpsed with meta-genomics, a culture-independent approach. Owing to its comprehensive description of microbial communities, genealogical evidence on unconventional biocatalysts or enzymes, genomic correlations, evolutionary profile, and function, it is being touted as one of the promising tools in identifying novel enzymes for the degradation of polymers. Additionally, computational tools such as molecular docking can predict the binding of these novel enzymes to the polymer substrate, which can be validated through in vitro conditions for its environmentally feasible applications. This review mainly deals with the exploration of metagenomics along with computational tools to provide a clearer perspective into the microbial potential in the biodegradation of microplastics. The computational tools due to their polymathic nature will be quintessential in identifying the enzyme structure, binding affinities of the prospective enzymes to the substrates, and foretelling of degradation pathways involved which can be quite instrumental in the furtherance of the plastic degradation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Parida
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
| | - Konica Katare
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
| | - Atmaadeep Ganguly
- Department of Microbiology, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, West Bengal State University, Kolkata, 700118, India.
| | - Disha Chakraborty
- Department of Botany, Shri Shikshayatan College, University of Calcutta, Lord Sinha Road, Kolkata, 700071, India.
| | - Oisi Konar
- Department of Botany, Shri Shikshayatan College, University of Calcutta, Lord Sinha Road, Kolkata, 700071, India.
| | - Regina Nogueira
- Institute of Sanitary Engineering and Waste Management, Leibniz Universität, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Kiran Bala
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
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18
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Stevenson EM, Buckling A, Cole M, Lindeque PK, Murray AK. Selection for antimicrobial resistance in the plastisphere. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168234. [PMID: 37924893 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168234] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and antimicrobials are widespread contaminants that threaten global systems and frequently co-exist in the presence of human or animal pathogens. Whilst the impact of each of these contaminants has been studied in isolation, the influence of this co-occurrence in driving antimicrobial resistance (AMR)1 in microplastic-adhered microbial communities, known as 'the Plastisphere', is not well understood. This review proposes the mechanisms by which interactions between antimicrobials and microplastics may drive selection for AMR in the Plastisphere. These include: 1) increased rates of horizontal gene transfer in the Plastisphere compared with free-living counterparts and natural substrate controls due to the proximity of cells, co-occurrence of environmental microplastics with AMR selective compounds and the sequestering of extracellular antibiotic resistance genes in the biofilm matrix. 2) An elevated AMR selection pressure in the Plastisphere due to the adsorbing of AMR selective or co-selective compounds to microplastics at concentrations greater than those found in surrounding mediums and potentially those adsorbed to comparator particles. 3) AMR selection pressure may be further elevated in the Plastisphere due to the incorporation of antimicrobial or AMR co-selective chemicals in the plastic matrix during manufacture. Implications for both ecological functioning and environmental risk assessments are discussed, alongside recommendations for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Stevenson
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter Medical School, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Penryn Campus, Cornwall, UK; Marine Ecology & Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK; Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Angus Buckling
- Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Matthew Cole
- Marine Ecology & Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK
| | - Penelope K Lindeque
- Marine Ecology & Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK; Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Aimee K Murray
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter Medical School, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Penryn Campus, Cornwall, UK.
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19
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Ormsby MJ, Woodford L, White HL, Fellows R, Oliver DM, Quilliam RS. Toxigenic Vibrio cholerae can cycle between environmental plastic waste and floodwater: Implications for environmental management of cholera. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132492. [PMID: 37717449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Globally, there has been a significant rise in cholera cases and deaths, with an increase in the number of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) reporting outbreaks. In parallel, plastic pollution in LMICs is increasing, and has become a major constituent of urban dump sites. The surfaces of environmental plastic pollution can provide a habitat for complex microbial biofilm communities; this so-called 'plastisphere' can also include human pathogens. Under conditions simulating a peri-urban environmental waste pile, we determine whether toxigenic Vibrio cholerae (O1 classical; O1 El Tor; O139) can colonise and persist on plastic following a simulated flooding event. Toxigenic V. cholerae colonized and persisted on plastic and organic waste for at least 14 days before subsequent transfer to either fresh or brackish floodwater, where they can further persist at concentrations sufficient to cause human infection. Taken together, this study suggests that plastics in the environment can act as significant reservoirs for V. cholerae, whilst subsequent transfer to floodwaters demonstrates the potential for the wider dissemination of cholera. Further understanding of how diseases interact with plastic waste will be central for combating infection, educating communities, and diminishing the public health risk of plastics in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Ormsby
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK.
| | - Luke Woodford
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK
| | - Hannah L White
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK
| | - Rosie Fellows
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK
| | - David M Oliver
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK
| | - Richard S Quilliam
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA. UK
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20
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Garrison CE, Pachiadaki MG, Soliman S, Helfrich A, Taylor GT. Microbes and microplastics: Community shifts along an urban coastal contaminant gradient. Environ Microbiol 2024; 26:e16563. [PMID: 38151777 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Plastic substrates introduced to the environment during the Anthropocene have introduced new pathways for microbial selection and dispersal. Some plastic-colonising microorganisms have adapted phenotypes for plastic degradation (selection), while the spatial transport (dispersal) potential of plastic colonisers remains controlled by polymer-specific density, hydrography and currents. Plastic-degrading enzyme abundances have recently been correlated with concentrations of plastic debris in open ocean environments, making it critical to better understand colonisation of hydrocarbon degraders with plastic degradation potential in urbanised watersheds where plastic pollution often originates. We found that microbial colonisation by reputed hydrocarbon degraders on microplastics (MPs) correlated with a spatial contaminant gradient (New York City/Long Island waterways), polymer types, temporal scales, microbial domains and putative cell activity (DNA vs. RNA). Hydrocarbon-degrading taxa enriched on polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride substrates relative to other polymers and were more commonly recovered in samples proximal to New York City. These differences in MP colonisation could indicate phenotypic adaptation processes resulting from increased exposure to urban plastic runoff as well as differences in carbon bioavailability across polymer types. Shifts in MP community potential across urban coastal contaminant gradients and polymer types improve our understanding of environmental plastic discharge impacts toward biogeochemical cycling across the global ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody E Garrison
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Anthony Helfrich
- School of Professional Development, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Gordon T Taylor
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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21
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Bos RP, Kaul D, Zettler ER, Hoffman JM, Dupont CL, Amaral-Zettler LA, Mincer TJ. Plastics select for distinct early colonizing microbial populations with reproducible traits across environmental gradients. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2761-2775. [PMID: 37132662 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about early plastic biofilm assemblage dynamics and successional changes over time. By incubating virgin microplastics along oceanic transects and comparing adhered microbial communities with those of naturally occurring plastic litter at the same locations, we constructed gene catalogues to contrast the metabolic differences between early and mature biofilm communities. Early colonization incubations were reproducibly dominated by Alteromonadaceae and harboured significantly higher proportions of genes associated with adhesion, biofilm formation, chemotaxis, hydrocarbon degradation and motility. Comparative genomic analyses among the Alteromonadaceae metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) highlighted the importance of the mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin (MSHA) operon, recognized as a key factor for intestinal colonization, for early colonization of hydrophobic plastic surfaces. Synteny alignments of MSHA also demonstrated positive selection for mshA alleles across all MAGs, suggesting that mshA provides a competitive advantage for surface colonization and nutrient acquisition. Large-scale genomic characteristics of early colonizers varied little, despite environmental variability. Mature plastic biofilms were composed of predominantly Rhodobacteraceae and displayed significantly higher proportions of carbohydrate hydrolysis enzymes and genes for photosynthesis and secondary metabolism. Our metagenomic analyses provide insight into early biofilm formation on plastics in the ocean and how early colonizers self-assemble, compared to mature, phylogenetically and metabolically diverse biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P Bos
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Fort Pierce, Florida, USA
| | - Drishti Kaul
- Environmental Sustainability, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Erik R Zettler
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey M Hoffman
- Environmental Sustainability, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Christopher L Dupont
- Environmental Sustainability, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Linda A Amaral-Zettler
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands
- Department of Freshwater and Marine Ecology, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Josephine Bay Paul Center for Comparative Molecular Biology and Evolution, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tracy J Mincer
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Fort Pierce, Florida, USA
- Department of Biology, Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida, USA
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22
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Witsø IL, Basson A, Vinje H, Llarena AK, Bringas CS, Aspholm M, Wasteson Y, Myrmel M. Freshwater plastispheres as a vector for foodborne bacteria and viruses. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2864-2881. [PMID: 37964725 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that plastic particles can accumulate microorganisms that are pathogenic to humans or animals. In the current study, the composition of the plastispheres that accumulated on polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pieces submerged in a river in the southeast Norway was characterized by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Seasonal and geographical effects on the bacterial composition of the plastisphere were identified, in addition to the detection of potential foodborne pathogenic bacteria and viruses as part of the plastisphere. The diversity and taxonomic composition of the plastispheres were influenced by the number of weeks in the river, the season, and the location. The bacterial diversity differed significantly in the plastisphere from June and September, with a generally higher diversity in June. Also, the community composition of the plastisphere was significantly influenced by the geographical location, while the type of plastic had less impact. Plastics submerged in river water assembled a variety of microorganisms including potentially pathogenic bacteria and viruses (noro- and adenovirus) detected by qPCR. Cultivation methods detected viable bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. The results highlight the need for additional research on the risk of contaminating food with plastic particles colonized with human pathogens through irrigation water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingun Lund Witsø
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Food Safety Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Adelle Basson
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Food Safety Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hilde Vinje
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Ann-Katrin Llarena
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Food Safety Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Carlos Salas Bringas
- Institute for Marine Operations and Civil Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Ålesund, Norway
| | - Marina Aspholm
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Food Safety Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Yngvild Wasteson
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Food Safety Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Mette Myrmel
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Virology Unit, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
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23
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Silva V, Pérez V, Gillanders BM. Short-term plastisphere colonization dynamics across six plastic types. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2732-2745. [PMID: 37341062 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Marine plastic pollution is a major concern worldwide, but the understanding of plastisphere dynamics remains limited in the southern hemisphere. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a study in South Australia to investigate the prokaryotic community of the plastisphere and its temporal changes over 4 weeks. We submerged six plastic types (i.e., High-Density Polyethylene [HDPE], Polyvinyl chloride [PVC], Low-Density Polyethylene [LDPE], Polypropylene [PP], Polystyrene [PS] and the understudied textile, polyester [PET]) and wood in seawater and sampled them weekly to characterize the prokaryotic community using 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding. Our results showed that the plastisphere composition shifted significantly over short time scales (i.e., 4 weeks), and each plastic type had distinct groups of unique genera. In particular, the PVC plastisphere was dominated by Cellvibrionaceae taxa, distinguishing it from other plastics. Additionally, the textile polyester, which is rarely studied in plastisphere research, supported the growth of a unique group of 25 prokaryotic genera (which included the potential pathogenic Legionella genus). Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the colonization dynamics of the plastisphere over short time scales and contributes to narrowing the research gap on the southern hemisphere plastisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinuri Silva
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Vilma Pérez
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Australian Centre for Ancient DNA (ACAD), University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Bronwyn M Gillanders
- Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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24
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Howard SA, Carr CM, Sbahtu HI, Onwukwe U, López MJ, Dobson ADW, McCarthy RR. Enrichment of native plastic-associated biofilm communities to enhance polyester degrading activity. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2698-2718. [PMID: 37515381 PMCID: PMC10947123 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an increasing worldwide problem urgently requiring a solution. While recycling rates are increasing globally, only 9% of all plastic waste has been recycled, and with the cost and limited downstream uses of recycled plastic, an alternative is needed. Here, we found that expanded polystyrene (EPS) promoted high levels of bacterial biofilm formation and sought out environmental EPS waste to characterize these native communities. We demonstrated that the EPS attached communities had limited plastic degrading activity. We then performed a long-term enrichment experiment where we placed a robust selection pressure on these communities by limiting carbon availability such that the waste plastic was the only carbon source. Seven of the resulting enriched bacterial communities had increased plastic degrading activity compared to the starting bacterial communities. Pseudomonas stutzeri was predominantly identified in six of the seven enriched communities as the strongest polyester degrader. Sequencing of one isolate of P. stutzeri revealed two putative polyesterases and one putative MHETase. This indicates that waste plastic-associated biofilms are a source for bacteria that have plastic-degrading potential, and that this potential can be unlocked through selective pressure and further in vitro enrichment experiments, resulting in biodegradative communities that are better than nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A. Howard
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Clodagh M. Carr
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- SSPC‐SFI Research Centre for PharmaceuticalsUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Habteab Isaack Sbahtu
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Uchechukwu Onwukwe
- Experimental Techniques Centre, College of Engineering, Design and Physical SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Maria J. López
- Department of Biology and Geology, CITE II‐BUniversity of Almería, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, CIAIMBITALAlmeriaSpain
| | - Alan D. W. Dobson
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- SSPC‐SFI Research Centre for PharmaceuticalsUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Ronan R. McCarthy
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
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25
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Zhao S, Liu R, Wang J, Lv S, Zhang B, Dong C, Shao Z. Biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) by diverse marine bacteria in deep-sea sediments. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2719-2731. [PMID: 37421171 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
PET plastic waste entering the oceans is supposed to take hundreds of years to degrade and tends to accumulate in the deep sea. However, we know little about the bacteria capable of plastic degradation therein. To determine whether PET-degrading bacteria are present in deep-sea sediment, we collected the samples from the eastern central Pacific Ocean and initiated microbial incubation with PET as the carbon source. After enrichment with PET for 2 years, we gained all 15 deep-sea sediment communities at five oceanic sampling sites. Bacterial isolation for pure culture and further growth tests confirmed that diverse bacteria possess degradation ability including Alcanivorax xenomutans BC02_1_A5, Marinobacter sediminum BC31_3_A1, Marinobacter gudaonensis BC06_2_A6, Thalassospira xiamenensis BC02_2_A1 and Nocardioides marinus BC14_2_R3. Furthermore, four strains were chosen as representatives to reconfirm the PET degradation capability by SEM, weight loss and UPLC-MS. The results showed that after 30-day incubation, 1.3%-1.8% of PET was lost. De-polymerization of PET by the four strains was confirmed by the occurrence of the PET monomer of MHET and TPA as the key degradation products. Bacterial consortia possessing PET-degrading potential are prevalent and diverse and might play a key role in the removal of PET pollutants in deep oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sufang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China
| | - Renju Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
| | - Shiwei Lv
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Benjuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
- School of Fisheries and Life, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunming Dong
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen, China
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- School of Fisheries and Life, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Zhuhai, China
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26
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Dudek KL, Neuer S. Environmental exposure more than plastic composition shapes marine microplastic-associated bacterial communities in Pacific versus Caribbean field incubations. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2807-2821. [PMID: 37899673 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have arisen as a global threat to marine ecosystems. In this study, we explored the role that plastic polymer type, incubation time and geographic location have on shaping the microbial community adhered to the microplastics, termed the plastisphere. We performed detailed bacterial plastisphere community analyses on microplastics of six different household plastic polymers, serving as proxies of secondary microplastics, incubated for 6 weeks in coastal Pacific waters. These bacterial communities were compared to the plastisphere communities grown on identical microplastic particles incubated in the coastal Caribbean Sea at Bocas del Toro, Panama. Ribosomal gene sequencing analyses revealed that bacterial community composition did not exhibit a significant preference for plastic type at either site but was instead driven by the incubation time and geographic location. We identified a 'core plastisphere' composed of 57 amplicon sequence variants common to all plastic types, incubation times and locations, with possible synergies between taxa. This study contributes to our understanding of the importance of geography in addition to exposure time, in the composition of the plastisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassandra L Dudek
- School of Life Sciences and Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Susanne Neuer
- School of Life Sciences and Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- School of Ocean Futures, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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27
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Yu X, Wang B, Han C, Liu L, Han X, Zheng B, Zhang B, Sun J, Zhang Z, Ma W, Zhai L, Lu X. Physicochemical and biological changes on naturally aged microplastic surfaces in real environments over 10 months. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122522. [PMID: 37683760 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) undergo aging over time, which can influence their behavior in the environment. While laboratory-simulated studies have investigated MP aging, research on natural aging in various real environments remains limited. This study aims to investigate the physical, chemical and biological changes that occur in five types of MPs after more than 10 months of natural aging in three different real environments: seawater, air and soil. Results are compared with previous laboratory experiments. The surface roughness of all types of aged MPs was found to be higher in seawater than in air and soil, which differed from previous simulated studies that showed the highest roughness in air. All aged MPs exhibited the occurrence of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups due to the oxidation processes. Interestingly, the MPs aged in soil showed the lowest level of these functional groups, while in seawater or air, some MPs demonstrated the highest. This contrasts with previous studies indicating the highest level of oxygen-containing functional groups in aged MPs in air. Bacterial analysis identified fourteen bacterial phyla on the surface of aged MPs in all three real environments, with varying abundance in specific environments. Notably, the composition of bacterial communities in the microplastisphere was determined by the surrounding environments, independent of MP types. Natural aging is more complex than laboratory simulations, and the degree of MP aging increases with the complexity of environmental factors. These findings enhance our understanding of the natural aging of MPs in different real environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring Central Station of SOA and Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Chenglong Han
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Ling Liu
- Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring Central Station of SOA and Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Xiaoxin Han
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China; Changchun Bureau of Ecology and Environment, Changchun, 130022, China
| | - Boyang Zheng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China; Nanchang City Development and Reform Commission, Jiangxi, 330038, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- R&D Department, FS Ltd., Katikati, 3129, New Zealand
| | - Jiawei Sun
- Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring Central Station of SOA and Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Zhiyin Zhang
- Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring Central Station of SOA and Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring and Forecasting Center, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Weiqi Ma
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Lifang Zhai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xueqiang Lu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution and Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Environmental Biogeochemical Technology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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28
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Karkanorachaki K, Syranidou E, Kalogerakis N. Extreme weather events as an important factor for the evolution of plastisphere but not for the degradation process. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 246:120687. [PMID: 37801984 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine plastics, with their negative effects on marine life and the human health, have been recently recognized as a new niche for the colonization and development of marine biofilms. Members of the colonizing communities could possess the potential for plastic biodegradation. Thus, there is an urgent need to characterize these complex and geographically variable communities and elucidate the functionalities. In this work, we characterize the fungal and bacterial colonizers of 5 types of plastic films (High Density Polyethylene, Low Density Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polystyrene and Polyethylene Terepthalate) over the course of a 242-day incubation in the south-eastern Mediterranean and relate them to the chemical changes observed on the surface of the samples via ATR-FTIR. The 16s rRNA and ITS2 ribosomal regions of the plastisphere communities were sequenced on four time points (35, 152, 202 and 242 days). The selection of the time points was dictated by the occurrence of a severe storm which removed biological fouling from the surface of the samples and initiated a second colonization period. The bacterial communities, dominated by Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes, were the most variable and diverse. Fungal communities, characterized mainly by the presence of Ascomycota, were not significantly affected by the storm. Neither bacterial nor fungal community structure were related to the polymer type acting as substrate, while the surface of the plastic samples underwent weathering of oscillating degrees with time. This work examines the long-term development of Mediterranean epiplastic biofilms and is the first to examine how primary colonization influences the microbial community re-attachment and succession as a response to extreme weather events. Finally, it is one of the few studies to examine fungal communities, despite them containing putative plastic degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Karkanorachaki
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, GR-73100, Chania, Greece
| | - Evdokia Syranidou
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, GR-73100, Chania, Greece
| | - Nicolas Kalogerakis
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, GR-73100, Chania, Greece; Institute of GeoEnergy, Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas, GR-73100, Chania, Greece.
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29
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Xu L, Li K, Zhang M, Guo J, Jia W, Bai X, Tian X, Huang Y. Plastic substrate and residual time of microplastics in the urban river shape the composition and structure of bacterial communities in plastisphere. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118710. [PMID: 37536136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
The widespread secondary microplastics (MPs) in urban freshwater, originating from plastic wastes, have created a new habitat called plastisphere for microorganisms. The factors influencing the structure and ecological risks of the microbial community within the plastisphere are not yet fully understood. We conducted an in-site incubation experiment in an urban river, using MPs from garbage bags (GB), shopping bags (SB), and plastic bottles (PB). Bacterial communities in water and plastisphere incubated for 2 and 4 weeks were analyzed by 16S high-throughput sequencing. The results showed the bacterial composition of the plastisphere, especially the PB, exhibited enrichment of plastic-degrading and photoautotrophic taxa. Diversity declined in GB and PB but increased in SB plastisphere. Abundance analysis revealed distinct bacterial species that were enriched or depleted in each type of plastisphere. As the succession progressed, the differences in community structure was more pronounced, and the decline in the complexity of bacterial community within each plastisphere suggested increasing specialization. All the plastisphere exhibited elevated pathogenicity at the second or forth week, compared to bacterial communities related to natural particles. These findings highlighted the continually evolving plastisphere in urban rivers was influenced by the plastic substrates, and attention should be paid to fragile plastic wastes due to the rapidly increasing pathogenicity of the bacterial community attached to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libo Xu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Mengjun Zhang
- Peking University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China; PKU-HKUST Shenzhen-Hongkong Institution, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China
| | - Jiabao Guo
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Weiqian Jia
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xinyi Bai
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xudong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control of Zhejiang, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
| | - Yi Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Pan I, Umapathy S, Issac PK, Rahman MM, Guru A, Arockiaraj J. The bioaccessibility of adsorped heavy metals on biofilm-coated microplastics and their implication for the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1264. [PMID: 37782357 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11890-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) tiny fragments (< 5 mm) of conventional and specialized industrial polymers are persistent and ubiquitous in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem. Breathing, ingestion, consumption of food stuffs, potable water, and skin are possible routes of MP exposure that pose potential human health risk. Various microorganisms including bacteria, cyanobacteria, and microalgae rapidly colonized on MP surfaces which initiate biofilm formation. It gradually changed the MP surface chemistry and polymer properties that attract environmental metals. Physicochemical and environmental parameters like polymer type, dissolved organic matter (DOM), pH, salinity, ion concentrations, and microbial community compositions regulate metal adsorption on MP biofilm surface. A set of highly conserved proteins tightly regulates metal uptake, subcellular distribution, storage, and transport to maintain cellular homeostasis. Exposure of metal-MP biofilm can disrupt that cellular homeostasis to induce toxicities. Imbalances in metal concentrations therefore led to neuronal network dysfunction, ROS, mitochondrial damage in diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Prion disorder. This review focuses on the biofilm development on MP surfaces, factors controlling the growth of MP biofilm which triggered metal accumulation to induce neurotoxicological consequences in human body and stategies to reestablish the homeostasis. Thus, the present study gives a new approach on the health risks of heavy metals associated with MP biofilm in which biofilms trigger metal accumulation and MPs serve as a vector for those accumulated metals causing metal dysbiosis in human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieshita Pan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 602105, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Suganiya Umapathy
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Issac
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh
| | - Ajay Guru
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Xu X, Wang S, Li C, Li J, Gao F, Zheng L. Quorum sensing bacteria in microplastics epiphytic biofilms and their biological characteristics which potentially impact marine ecosystem. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115444. [PMID: 37690175 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been shown to be a new type of pollutant in the oceans, with complex biofilms attached to their surfaces. Bacteria with quorum sensing (QS) systems are important participants in biofilms. Such bacteria can secrete and detect signal molecules. When a signal molecule reaches its threshold level, bacteria with QS systems can perform several biological functions, such as biofilm formation and antibiotic metabolite production. However, the ecological effects of QS bacteria in biofilm as MPs distribute globally with ocean currents are not to be elucidate yet. In this study, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride were selected for on-site enrichment to acquire microplastics with biofilms. Eight culturable QS bacteria in the resulting biofilm were isolated by using biosensor assays, and their biodiversity was analyzed. The profiles of the N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) produced by these bacteria were analyzed by using thin-layer chromatography (TLC)-bioautography and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Biofilm-forming properties and several biological characteristics, such as bacteriostasis, algal inhibition, and dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) degradation, were explored along with QS quenching. Results showed that QS bacteria were mainly affiliated with class Alphaproteobacteria, particularly Rhodobacteraceae, followed by class Gammaproteobacteria. TLC-bioautography and GC-MS analyses revealed that seven AHLs, namely, C6-HSL, C8-HSL, 3-oxo-C6-HSL, 3-oxo-C8-HSL, 3-oxo-C10-HSL, and two unidentified AHLs were produced. The QS system equipped bacteria with strong biofilm-forming capacity and may contribute to the keystone roles of Rhodobacteraceae. In addition, QS bacteria may exacerbate the adverse environmental effects of MPs, such as inducing the misfeeding of planktons on MPs. This study elucidated the diversity of QS bacteria in MP-associated biofilms and provided a new perspective of the effect of key membrane-forming bacteria on the marine ecological environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyuan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Chengxuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Jingxi Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Fenglei Gao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China; Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao 266237, China.
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Kelpsiene E, Rydberg M, Ekvall MT, Lundqvist M, Cedervall T. Prolonged survival time of Daphnia magna exposed to polylactic acid breakdown nanoplastics. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290748. [PMID: 37669271 PMCID: PMC10479899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polylactic acid nanoparticles (PLA NPs) according to food and drug administration are biodegradable and biocompatible polymers that have received a lot of attention due to their natural degradation mechanism. Although there is already available information concerning the effects of PLA microplastic to aquatic organisms, the knowledge about PLA NPs is still vague. In the present study, we analyzed the chemical composition of engineered PLA NPs, daily used PLA items and their breakdown products. We show that PLA breakdown products are oxidized and may contain aldehydes and/or ketones. The breakdown produces nanosized particles, nanoplastics, and possibly other small molecules as lactide or cyclic oligomers. Further, we show that all PLA breakdown nanoplastics extended the survival rate in Daphnia magna in an acute toxicity assay, however, only PLA plastic cup breakdown nanoplastics showed a significant difference compared to a control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egle Kelpsiene
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Melinda Rydberg
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mikael T. Ekvall
- NanoLund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Biology, Ecology Building, Aquatic Ecology Unit, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin Lundqvist
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tommy Cedervall
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- NanoLund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Koh J, Bairoliya S, Salta M, Cho ZT, Fong J, Neo ML, Cragg S, Cao B. Sediment-driven plastisphere community assembly on plastic debris in tropical coastal and marine environments. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 179:108153. [PMID: 37607427 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Coastal habitats have been suggested to serve as a sink for unaccounted plastic debris, i.e., "missing plastic" in the sea, and hence, a hotspot of plastic pollution in the marine and coastal environments. Although the accumulation of plastic debris may pose significant threats to coastal ecosystems, we know little about the fate of these plastic debris and their ecological impacts due to the lack of studies on plastic-microbe interactions in coastal habitats, especially for the tropical marine and coastal environments. In this study, we collected plastic debris from 14 sites consisting of various coastal ecosystems (seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and beaches), and marine ecosystem (coral reef) around Singapore and characterized the prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbial communities colonized on them. Our results showed that the composition of plastisphere communities in these intertidal ecosystems was predominantly influenced by the sediment than by the plastic materials. Compared with surrounding sediment and seawater, the plastic debris enriched potential plastic degraders, such as Muricauda, Halomonas, and Brevundimonas. The plastic debris was also found to host taxa that play significant roles in biogeochemical cycles (e.g., cyanobacteria, Erythrobacter), hygienically relevant bacteria (e.g., Chryseobacterium, Brevundimonas), and potential pathogens that may negatively impact the health of coastal ecosystems (e.g., Thraustochytriaceae, Labyrinthulaceae, Flavobacterium). Taken together, our study provides valuable insights into the plastic-microbe interactions in tropical coastal and marine ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for plastisphere studies to understand the fate and ecological impacts of plastic debris accumulated in coastal habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Koh
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Sakcham Bairoliya
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Maria Salta
- Biofilm and MIC Research, Endures BV, the Netherlands
| | - Zin Thida Cho
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Jenny Fong
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mei Lin Neo
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Simon Cragg
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom; Centre for Enzyme Innovation, School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - Bin Cao
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
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Chen Y, Ni L, Liu Q, Deng Z, Ding J, Zhang L, Zhang C, Ma Z, Zhang D. Photo-aging promotes the inhibitory effect of polystyrene microplastics on microbial reductive dechlorination of a polychlorinated biphenyl mixture (Aroclor 1260). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 452:131350. [PMID: 37030223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and microplastics (MPs) commonly co-exist in various environments. MPs inevitably start aging once they enter environment. In this study, the effect of photo-aged polystyrene MPs on microbial PCB dechlorination was investigated. After a UV aging treatment, the proportion of oxygen-containing groups in MPs increased. Photo-aging promoted the inhibitory effect of MPs on microbial reductive dechlorination of PCBs, mainly attributed to the inhibition of meta-chlorine removal. The inhibitory effects on hydrogenase and adenosine triphosphatase activity by MPs increased with increasing aging degree, which may be attributed to electron transfer chain inhibition. PERMANOVA showed significant differences in microbial community structure between culturing systems with and without MPs (p < 0.05). Co-occurrence network showed a simpler structure and higher proportion of negative correlation in the presence of MPs, especially for biofilms, resulting in increased potential for competition among bacteria. MP addition altered microbial community diversity, structure, interactions, and assembly processes, which was more deterministic in biofilms than in suspension cultures, especially regarding the bins of Dehalococcoides. This study sheds light on the microbial reductive dechlorination metabolisms and mechanisms where PCBs and MPs co-exist and provides theoretical guidance for in situ application of PCB bioremediation technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youhua Chen
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Lingfang Ni
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Qing Liu
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Zhaochao Deng
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Jiawei Ding
- Key Laboratory of Ocean Space Resource Management Technology, MNR, Hangzhou 310012, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Marine Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development, Fourth Institute of Oceanography, MNR, Beihai 536000, PR China
| | - Chunfang Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Zhongjun Ma
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316021, PR China.
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Featherstone A, Brown AC, Chitlapilly Dass S. Understanding how different surfaces and environmental biofilms found in food processing plants affect the spread of COVID-19. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286659. [PMID: 37285373 PMCID: PMC10246802 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Meat processing plants have been at the center of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with a recent report citing 90% of US facilities having multiple outbreaks during 2020 and 2021. We explored the potential for biofilms to act as a reservoir in protecting, harboring, and dispersing SARS-CoV-2 throughout the meat processing facility environment. To do this, we used Murine Hepatitis Virus (MHV), as a surrogate for SARS-CoV-2, and meat processing facility drain samples to develop mixed-species biofilms on materials found in meat processing facilities (stainless steel (SS), PVC, and ceramic tiles). After exposure to the biofilm organisms for five days post-inoculation at 7°C we conducted quantitative PCR (qPCR) and plaque assays to determine whether MHV could remain both detectable and viable. Our data provides evidence that coronaviruses can remain viable on all the surfaces tested and are also able to integrate within an environmental biofilm. Although a portion of MHV was able to remain infectious after incubation with the environmental biofilm, a large reduction in plaque numbers was identified when compared with the viral inoculum incubated without biofilm on all test surfaces, which ranged from 6.45-9.27-fold higher. Interestingly, we observed a 2-fold increase in the virus-environmental biofilm biovolume when compared to biofilm without virus, indicating that the biofilm bacteria both detected and reacted to the virus. These results indicate a complex virus-environmental biofilm interaction. Although we observed better survival of MHV on a variety of surfaces commonly found in meat processing plants alone than with the biofilm, there is the potential for biofilms to protect virions from disinfecting agents, which has implications for the potential of SARS-CoV-2 prevalence within the meat processing plant environment. Also given the highly infectious nature of SARS-CoV-2, particularly for some of the variant strains such as omicron, having even a residual level of virus present represents a serious health hazard. The increase in biofilm biovolume in response to virus is also a concern for food safety due to the potential of the same being seen with organisms associated with food poisoning and food spoilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Featherstone
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Amanda Claire Brown
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sapna Chitlapilly Dass
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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Mazlan N, Shukhairi SS, Muhammad Husin MJ, Shalom J, Saud SN, Abdullah Sani MS, Ong MC, Naidu Chandra Mohan NK, Sopian NA. Evaluation of microplastics isolated from sea cucumber A caudina molpadioides in Pulau Langkawi, Malaysia. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16822. [PMID: 37303562 PMCID: PMC10250798 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental concern in recent years due to continuous mass production and its slow degradation. Microplastics measuring between 5 mm and 1 μm are being ingested by marine animals and eventually by human consumption in form of seafood. The aim of this research was to evaluate microplastics isolated from sea cucumber Acaudina molpadioides in Pulau Langkawi. A total of 20 animals were collected and their gastrointestinal tract were digested using NaOH. Microplastics were isolated, filtered and identified through microscopic examination based on the colour, shape and size. The chemical composition of microplastics were further analyzed by FTIR to identify the functional group of polymers. A total of 1652 microplastics were found in A. molpadioides. Fibres (99.4%) and black color (54.4%) were the majority of microplastics observed in terms of shapes and colors. The size range within 0.5-1 μm and 1-2 μm were the highest abundance observed. There were two identified polymer types of microplastics obtained through FTIR which were polyethylene (PE) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). In conclusion, microplastics were isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of A. molpadioides indicating that the animals were contaminated. Further research can be done on the toxicity effects of these microplastics towards human upon consumption of these animals as seafood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurzafirah Mazlan
- Borneo Marine Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Sarah Syazwani Shukhairi
- Borneo Marine Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | | | - Jemimah Shalom
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Safaa Najah Saud
- Faculty of Information Sciences and Engineering, Management and Science University (MSU), 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Shirwan Abdullah Sani
- International Institute for Halal Research and Training, Level 3, KICT Building, International Islamic University Malaysia, Jalan Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meng Chuan Ong
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, University Malaysia Terengganu, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Nor Asyikin Sopian
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, 26300 Gambang, Kuantan, Malaysia
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Mancia A, Abelli L, Palladino G, Candela M, Lucon-Xiccato T, Bertolucci C, Fossi MC, Baini M, Panti C. Sorbed environmental contaminants increase the harmful effects of microplastics in adult zebrafish, Danio rerio. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 259:106544. [PMID: 37105865 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic animals ingest Microplastics (MPs) which have the potential to affect the uptake and bioavailability of sorbed co-contaminants. However, the effects on living organisms still need to be properly understood. The present study was designed to assess the combined effects of MPs and environmental contaminants on zebrafish (Danio rerio) health and behavior. Adult specimens were fed according to three different protocols: 1) untreated food (Control group); 2) food supplemented with 0.4 mg/L pristine polyethylene-MPs (PE-MPs; 0.1-0.3 mm diameter) (PEv group); 3) food supplemented with 0.4 mg/L PE-MPs previously incubated (PEi group) for 2 months in seawater. Analysis of contaminants in PEi detected trace elements, such as lead and copper. After 15 days of exposure, zebrafish underwent behavioral analysis and were then dissected to sample gills and intestine for histology, and the latter also for microbiome analysis. Occurrence of PEv and PEi in the intestine and contaminants in the fish carcass were analyzed. Both PEv- and PEi-administered fish differed from controls in the assays performed, but PEi produced more harmful effects in most instances. Overall, MPs after environmental exposure revealed higher potential to alter fish health through combined effects (e.g. proportion of microplastics, pollutants and/or microorganisms).
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Mancia
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via L. Borsari, 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
| | - Luigi Abelli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via L. Borsari, 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Giorgia Palladino
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via Belmeloro, 6, Bologna 40126, Italy; Fano Marine Center, the Inter-Institute Center for Research on Marine Biodiversity, Resources and Biotechnologies, vialeAdriatico 1/N, Fano, Pesaro Urbino 61032, Italy
| | - Marco Candela
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via Belmeloro, 6, Bologna 40126, Italy; Fano Marine Center, the Inter-Institute Center for Research on Marine Biodiversity, Resources and Biotechnologies, vialeAdriatico 1/N, Fano, Pesaro Urbino 61032, Italy
| | - Tyrone Lucon-Xiccato
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via L. Borsari, 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Cristiano Bertolucci
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via L. Borsari, 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli, 4, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli, 4, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli, 4, Siena 53100, Italy
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Marín A, Feijoo P, de Llanos R, Carbonetto B, González-Torres P, Tena-Medialdea J, García-March JR, Gámez-Pérez J, Cabedo L. Microbiological Characterization of the Biofilms Colonizing Bioplastics in Natural Marine Conditions: A Comparison between PHBV and PLA. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1461. [PMID: 37374962 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable polymers offer a potential solution to marine pollution caused by plastic waste. The marine biofilms that formed on the surfaces of poly(lactide acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) were studied. Bioplastics were exposed for 6 months to marine conditions in the Mediterranean Sea, and the biofilms that formed on their surfaces were assessed. The presence of specific PLA and PHBV degraders was also studied. PHBV showed extensive areas with microbial accumulations and this led to higher microbial surface densities than PLA (4.75 vs. 5.16 log CFU/cm2). Both polymers' surfaces showed a wide variety of microbial structures, including bacteria, fungi, unicellular algae and choanoflagellates. A high bacterial diversity was observed, with differences between the two polymers, particularly at the phylum level, with over 70% of bacteria affiliated to three phyla. Differences in metagenome functions were also detected, revealing a higher presence of proteins involved in PHBV biodegradation in PHBV biofilms. Four bacterial isolates belonging to the Proteobacteria class were identified as PHBV degraders, demonstrating the presence of species involved in the biodegradation of this polymer in seawater. No PLA degraders were detected, confirming its low biodegradability in marine environments. This was a pilot study to establish a baseline for further studies aimed at comprehending the marine biodegradation of biopolymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Marín
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Patricia Feijoo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Rosa de Llanos
- MicroBIO, Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Belén Carbonetto
- Microomics Systems S.L., IIB Sant Pau, C/Sant Quintí, 77-79, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - José Tena-Medialdea
- IMEDMAR-UCV Institute of Environment and Marine Science Research, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Av. del Port, 15, 03710 Calpe, Spain
| | - José R García-March
- IMEDMAR-UCV Institute of Environment and Marine Science Research, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Av. del Port, 15, 03710 Calpe, Spain
| | - José Gámez-Pérez
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
| | - Luis Cabedo
- Polymers and Advanced Materials Group (PIMA), Universitat Jaume I (UJI), Av. de Vicent Sos Baynat s/n, Castelló de la Plana, 12071 Castelló, Spain
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Behera S, Das S. Environmental impacts of microplastic and role of plastisphere microbes in the biodegradation and upcycling of microplastic. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 334:138928. [PMID: 37211165 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Increasing usage of plastic has led to the deposition of plastic in the environment which later become microplastic, a pollutant of global concern. These polymeric particles affect the ecosystem bestowing toxicity and impede the biogeochemical cycles. Besides, microplastic particles have been known for their role in aggravating the effect of various other environmental pollutants including organic pollutants and heavy metals. These microplastic surfaces are often colonized by the microbial communities also known as "plastisphere microbes" forming biofilms. These microbes include cyanobacteria like Nostoc, Scytonema, etc., and diatoms like Navicula, Cyclotella, etc. Which become the primary colonizer. In addition to the autotrophic microbes, Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria dominate the plastisphere microbial community. These biofilm-forming microbes can efficiently degrade the microplastic in the environment by secreting various catabolic enzymes such as lipase, esterase, hydroxylase, etc. Besides, these microbes have shown great potential for the bioconversion of microplastic to polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), an energy efficient and sustainable alternative to the petroleum based plastics. Thus, these microbes can be used for the creation of a circular economy using waste to wealth strategy. This review provides a deeper insight into the distribution, transportation, transformation, and biodegradation of microplastic in the ecosystem. The formation of plastisphere by the biofilm-forming microbes has been described in the article. In addition, the microbial metabolic pathways and genetic regulations involved in the biodegradation have been discussed in detail. The article suggests the microbial bioremediation and upcycling of microplastic along with various other strategies for effectively mitigate the microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivananda Behera
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, 769 008, Odisha, India
| | - Surajit Das
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, 769 008, Odisha, India.
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Ghiglione JF, Barbe V, Bruzaud S, Burgaud G, Cachot J, Eyheraguibel B, Lartaud F, Ludwig W, Meistertzheim AL, Paul-Pont I, Pesant S, Ter Halle A, Thiebeauld O. Mission Tara Microplastics: a holistic set of protocols and data resources for the field investigation of plastic pollution along the land-sea continuum in Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-26883-9. [PMID: 37140856 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26883-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The Tara Microplastics mission was conducted for 7 months to investigate plastic pollution along nine major rivers in Europe-Thames, Elbe, Rhine, Seine, Loire, Garonne, Ebro, Rhone, and Tiber. An extensive suite of sampling protocols was applied at four to five sites on each river along a salinity gradient from the sea and the outer estuary to downstream and upstream of the first heavily populated city. Biophysicochemical parameters including salinity, temperature, irradiance, particulate matter, large and small microplastics (MPs) concentration and composition, prokaryote and microeukaryote richness, and diversity on MPs and in the surrounding waters were routinely measured onboard the French research vessel Tara or from a semi-rigid boat in shallow waters. In addition, macroplastic and microplastic concentrations and composition were determined on river banks and beaches. Finally, cages containing either pristine pieces of plastics in the form of films or granules, and others containing mussels were immersed at each sampling site, 1 month prior to sampling in order to study the metabolic activity of the plastisphere by meta-OMICS and to run toxicity tests and pollutants analyses. Here, we fully described the holistic set of protocols designed for the Mission Tara Microplastics and promoted standard procedures to achieve its ambitious goals: (1) compare traits of plastic pollution among European rivers, (2) provide a baseline of the state of plastic pollution in the Anthropocene, (3) predict their evolution in the frame of the current European initiatives, (4) shed light on the toxicological effects of plastic on aquatic life, (5) model the transport of microplastics from land towards the sea, and (6) investigate the potential impact of pathogen or invasive species rafting on drifting plastics from the land to the sea through riverine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Ghiglione
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne (LOMIC)/UMR 7621, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne, 1 Avenue Fabre, F-66650, Banyuls sur mer, France.
- Research Federation for the Study of Global Ocean Systems Ecology and Evolution, R2022/Tara Oceans-GOSEE, Paris, France.
| | - Valérie Barbe
- Génomique Métabolique, Genoscope, Institut François Jacob, CEA, CNRS, Univ Evry, Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Stéphane Bruzaud
- UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, Université Bretagne Sud, 56100, Lorient, France
| | - Gaëtan Burgaud
- Univ Brest, INRAE, Laboratoire Universitaire de Biodiversité Et Écologie Microbienne, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Jérôme Cachot
- Université Bordeaux, EPOC CNRS, EPHE, Université de Bordeaux, UMR 5805, 33600, Pessac, France
| | - Boris Eyheraguibel
- CNRS, Université Clermont Auvergne, Institut de Chimie de Clermont-Ferrand (ICCF), UMR6296, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Franck Lartaud
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Laboratoire d'Ecogéochimie des Environnements Benthiques (LECOB)/UMR 8222, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls, Banyuls Sur Mer, France
| | - Wolfgang Ludwig
- CEFREM, UMR 5110, University of Perpignan - CNRS, 66860, Perpignan Cedex, France
| | | | - Ika Paul-Pont
- Ifremer, CNRS, IRD, LEMAR, Univ Brest, F-29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Stéphane Pesant
- Research Federation for the Study of Global Ocean Systems Ecology and Evolution, R2022/Tara Oceans-GOSEE, Paris, France
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Alexandra Ter Halle
- CNRS, Laboratoire des InteractionsMoléculaires EtRéactivité Chimique Et Photochimique (IMRCP), UMR 5623, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Marques J, Ares A, Costa J, Marques MPM, de Carvalho LAEB, Bessa F. Plastisphere assemblages differ from the surrounding bacterial communities in transitional coastal environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161703. [PMID: 36708826 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Marine plastic contamination is currently considered ubiquitous in aquatic environments. These particles present a resistant and hydrophobic substrate known to promote microbial colonisation and biofilm formation in aquatic ecosystems, the so-called "Plastisphere", raising concerns about its potential ecological risks. The novelty of this topic translates into a relatively low number of studies, including for transitional coastal ecosystems, such as sandy beaches or estuarine habitats. Therefore, a sampling campaign was conducted in two transitional coastal ecosystems - the Mondego estuary (Portugal) - and adjacent sandy beaches (winter 2020). After visual sorting and filtering of suspected particles under sterile conditions DNA extraction and 16S rRNA amplicon high throughput sequencing was used to profile the bacterial communities on the surface of plastic particles and from those found on the water and sediments from the sampled transitional coastal ecosystems. All particles were characterised according to type, colour and size, and the chemical nature of the particles was determined by FTIR-ATR or μ-FTIR spectroscopy after DNA extraction. All samples contained plastics in several sizes (micro and mesoplastics), shapes (higher abundances of fragments on beaches and fibres in the estuarine waters), colours and polymers. Although no significant differences were detected in the α-diversity indexes of the bacterial communities between plastics and their surrounding environments, data showed the occurrence of unique key bacterial groups on plastics from both environments, such as pathogens (e.g., Lactococcus, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus) and groups commonly associated with wastewater treatment plants (e.g., members of the phylum Firmicutes). This highlights the concerns for plastics to act as vectors of transmission and spread of these bacterial groups in transitional coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, it raises the possibility that (micro)plastics entering the estuary from the sea play a substantial contribution to overall dynamics of (micro)plastics and their microbial assemblages in the estuarine system.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Marques
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Aitana Ares
- University of Coimbra, Centre for Functional Ecology - Science for People & the Planet, TERRA Associate Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
| | - Joana Costa
- University of Coimbra, Centre for Functional Ecology - Science for People & the Planet, TERRA Associate Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
| | - M P M Marques
- University of Coimbra, Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - L A E Batista de Carvalho
- University of Coimbra, Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipa Bessa
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Yu Y, Miao L, Adyel TM, Waldschläger K, Wu J, Hou J. Aquatic plastisphere: Interactions between plastics and biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121196. [PMID: 36736560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Because of the high production rates, low recycling rates, and poor waste management of plastics, an increasing amount of plastic is entering the aquatic environment, where it can provide new ecological niches for microbial communities and form a so-called plastisphere. Recent studies have focused on the one-way impact of plastic substrata or biofilm communities. However, our understanding of the two-way interactions between plastics and biofilms is still limited. This review first summarizes the formation process and the co-occurrence network analysis of the aquatic plastisphere to comprehensively illustrate the succession pattern of biofilm communities and the potential consistency between keystone taxa and specific environmental behavior of the plastisphere. Furthermore, this review sheds light on mutual interactions between plastics and biofilms. Plastic properties, environmental conditions, and colonization time affect biofilm development. Meanwhile, the biofilm communities, in turn, influence the environmental behaviors of plastics, including transport, contaminant accumulation, and especially the fragmentation and degradation of plastics. Based on a systematic literature review and cross-referencing from these disciplines, the current research focus, and future challenges in exploring aquatic plastisphere development and biofilm-plastic interactions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, 8093, Switzerland
| | - Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Kryss Waldschläger
- Hydrology and Quantitative Water Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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Pasqualini V, Garrido M, Cecchi P, Connès C, Couté A, El Rakwe M, Henry M, Hervio-Heath D, Quilichini Y, Simonnet J, Rinnert E, Vitré T, Galgani F. Harmful algae and pathogens on plastics in three mediterranean coastal lagoons. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13654. [PMID: 36895393 PMCID: PMC9988496 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13654] [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: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic is now a pervasive pollutant in all marine ecosystems. The microplastics and macroplastic debris were studied in three French Mediterranean coastal lagoons (Prevost, Biguglia and Diana lagoons), displaying different environmental characteristics. In addition, biofilm samples were analyzed over the seasons to quantify and identify microalgae communities colonizing macroplastics, and determine potentially harmful microorganisms. Results indicate low but highly variable concentrations of microplastics, in relation to the period and location of sampling. Micro-Raman spectroscopy analyses revealed that the majority of macroplastic debris corresponded to polyethylene (PE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and to a far lesser extent to polypropylene (PP). The observations by Scanning Electron Microscopy of microalgae communities colonizing macroplastic debris demonstrated differences depending on the seasons, with higher amounts in spring and summer, but without any variation between lagoons and polymers. Among the Diatomophyceae, the most dominant genera were Amphora spp., Cocconeis spp., and Navicula spp.. Cyanobacteria and Dinophyceae such as Prorocentrum cordatum, a potentially toxic species, were also found sporadically. The use of Primer specific DNA amplification tools enabled us to detect potentially harmful microorganisms colonizing plastics, such as Alexandrium minutum or Vibrio spp. An additional in situ experiment performed over one year revealed an increase in the diversity of colonizing microalgae in relation to the duration of immersion for the three tested polymers PE, LDPE and polyethylene terephthalates (PET). Vibrio settled durably after two weeks of immersion, whatever the polymer. This study confirms that Mediterranean coastal lagoons are vulnerable to the presence of macroplastic debris that may passively host and transport various species, including some potentially harmful algal and bacterial microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanina Pasqualini
- UMR SPE CNRS - UMS Stella Mare CNRS, University of Corsica, BP 52, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Marie Garrido
- Environmental Agency of Corsica, 7 Avenue Jean Nicoli, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Philippe Cecchi
- UMR MARBEC, IRD CNRS IFREMER, University of Montpellier, CC093, 34095, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Coralie Connès
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Bastia, Zone Industrielle de Furiani, 20600, Bastia, France
| | - Alain Couté
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Département RDDM, FRE 3206, USM 505, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Maria El Rakwe
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Détection, Capteurs et Mesures (LDCM), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Maryvonne Henry
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Toulon, Zone Portuaire de Brégaillon, CS 20330, 83507, La Seyne sur Mer, France
| | - Dominique Hervio-Heath
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Adaptation, Reproduction et Nutrition des Poissons (LARN), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Yann Quilichini
- UMR SPE CNRS - UMS Stella Mare CNRS, University of Corsica, BP 52, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Jérémy Simonnet
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Santé, Environnement et Microbiologie (LSEM), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Emmanuel Rinnert
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Cycle Géochimique et Ressources (LCG), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Thomas Vitré
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Adaptation, Reproduction et Nutrition des Poissons (LARN), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - François Galgani
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Bastia, Zone Industrielle de Furiani, 20600, Bastia, France
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Nguyen NHA, Marlita M, El-Temsah YS, Hrabak P, Riha J, Sevcu A. Early stage biofilm formation on bio-based microplastics in a freshwater reservoir. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159569. [PMID: 36272481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bio-based plastics (BP) produced from renewable biomass resources, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), is currently increasing in terms of both products and applications. However, their biodegradability and environmental fate are not yet fully understood, especially in freshwaters. Here, we present the results of an in-situ study in a freshwater reservoir, where we submerged HDPE, PLA and PHBV microscale BP (mBP) in dialysis bags to enable exchange of small organic and inorganic molecules, including nutrients, with the surrounding water. After one and two months, the bacterial biofilm that formed on each mBP was characterised by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. After two-months, Oxalobacteraceae, Pedosphaeraceae, Flavobacteriaceae (Flavobacterium) and Chitinophagaceae (Ferruginibacter) had increased by up to four times. Both these and other common members (≥1 % relative total biomass) of the microbial community were similarly abundant on all mBP. Low-abundance (0.3-1 %) bacterial taxa, however, were significantly more diverse and differed on each mBP. Notably, some low-abundance families and genera increased on specific materials, e.g. Sphingomonadaceae on HDPE, Sphingobacteriaceae on PHBV, Gemmatimonas and Crenothrix on PLA. Overall, abundant bacteria were regarded as a pioneering community, while low-abundance bacteria were more diverse and preferred mBP types in the early stages of biofilm formation on mBP. It could be influenced by the environmental conditions, where nutrient levels and low temperatures might shape the low-abundance of attached bacterial communities than the plastic material itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhung H A Nguyen
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
| | - Marlita Marlita
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Yehia S El-Temsah
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Centre for Biosafety, Postboks 6418, 9294 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Pavel Hrabak
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Riha
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Sevcu
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
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Perveen S, Pablos C, Reynolds K, Stanley S, Marugán J. Growth and prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in microplastic biofilm from wastewater treatment plant effluents. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:159024. [PMID: 36170918 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
It is accepted that Microplastic (MP) biofilms accumulates antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) in water. ARB/ARGs and MPs are emerging pollutants of concern due to various associated health risks. The objective of this study was to 1) investigate the ARB community in a pilot-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent, 2) to study and visualize the ARB/ARGs in MP biofilm grown in WWTP effluent and tap water, and 3) to analyze microplastic adherent ARB/ARGs in the biofilm and planktonic ARB/ARGs in the filtrate under controlled conditions. Results indicated the dominance of Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, and Bacillus among isolated ARB in WWTP effluent. Representative resistance strains were incubated in 300 mL water containing commercial polystyrene beads of 300550 μm diameter (MP) in a series of batch experiments. Microbiological, molecular, and microscopic analyses were performed by enumeration, 16srRNA, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FEG-SEM) techniques. The analyzed viable ARB indicated an increasing trend in MP biofilms between days 3 and 5. It further decreased on days 7 and 9. The prevalence of ARB in the filtrate and MP biofilm varied as a function of time and TOC level, while no significant impacts were observed for minor temperature variation, low antibiotic pressure, and increased MP mass with few exceptions. Relative abundance of ARGs (vanA, sul1) and integron integrase gene (intl1) in MP biofilm were significantly different across different TOC levels, time, and antibiotic pressure. ARGs and intl1 were detected in the MP biofilm in tap water and WWTP effluent on day 30.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabila Perveen
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain; Prophotonix IRL LTD, 3020 Euro Business Park, Little Island, Cork T45 X211, Ireland
| | - Cristina Pablos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ken Reynolds
- Prophotonix IRL LTD, 3020 Euro Business Park, Little Island, Cork T45 X211, Ireland
| | - Simon Stanley
- Prophotonix IRL LTD, 3020 Euro Business Park, Little Island, Cork T45 X211, Ireland
| | - Javier Marugán
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
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Amaneesh C, Anna Balan S, Silpa PS, Kim JW, Greeshma K, Aswathi Mohan A, Robert Antony A, Grossart HP, Kim HS, Ramanan R. Gross Negligence: Impacts of Microplastics and Plastic Leachates on Phytoplankton Community and Ecosystem Dynamics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:5-24. [PMID: 36534053 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c05817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastic debris is an established environmental menace affecting aquatic systems globally. Recently, microplastics (MP) and plastic leachates (PL) have been detected in vital human organs, the vascular system, and in vitro animal studies positing severe health hazards. MP and PL have been found in every conceivable aquatic ecosystem─from open oceans and deep sea floors to supposedly pristine glacier lakes and snow covered mountain catchment sites. Many studies have documented the MP and PL impacts on a variety of aquatic organisms, whereby some exclusively focus on aquatic microorganisms. Yet, the specific MP and PL impacts on primary producers have not been systematically analyzed. Therefore, this review focuses on the threats posed by MP, PL, and associated chemicals on phytoplankton, their comprehensive impacts at organismal, community, and ecosystem scales, and their endogenous amelioration. Studies on MP- and PL-impacted individual phytoplankton species reveal the production of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, physical damage of thylakoids, and other physiological and metabolic changes, followed by homo- and heteroaggregations, ultimately eventuating in decreased photosynthesis and primary productivity. Likewise, analyses of the microbial community in the plastisphere show a radically different profile compared to the surrounding planktonic diversity. The plastisphere also enriches multidrug-resistant bacteria, cyanotoxins, and pollutants, accelerating microbial succession, changing the microbiome, and thus, affecting phytoplankton diversity and evolution. These impacts on cellular and community scales manifest in changed ecosystem dynamics with widespread bottom-up and top-down effects on aquatic biodiversity and food web interactions. These adverse effects─through altered nutrient cycling─have "knock-on" impacts on biogeochemical cycles and greenhouse gases. Consequently, these impacts affect provisioning and regulating ecosystem services. Our citation network analyses (CNA) further demonstrate dire effects of MP and PL on all trophic levels, thereby unsettling ecosystem stability and services. CNA points to several emerging nodes indicating combined toxicity of MP, PL, and their associated hazards on phytoplankton. Taken together, our study shows that ecotoxicity of plastic particles and their leachates have placed primary producers and some aquatic ecosystems in peril.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Amaneesh
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
| | - Shankari Anna Balan
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Benson Lane, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8BB, United Kingdom
- Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 8000, 6700 EA, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - P S Silpa
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
| | - Ji Won Kim
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, KRIBB School of Biotechnology, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 34113, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kozhumal Greeshma
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
| | - A Aswathi Mohan
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
| | - Aiswarya Robert Antony
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
| | - Hans-Peter Grossart
- Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, 12587 Berlin, Germany
- Potsdam University, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Hee-Sik Kim
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, KRIBB School of Biotechnology, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 34113, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Rishiram Ramanan
- Sustainable Resources Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
- Cell Factory Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Centre for Policy Research & Governance, Central University of Kerala, Tejaswini Hills, Periya, Kasaragod, Kerala 671316, India
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47
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Deng Z, Zhang N, Jiang L, Liu H, Hu S, Zhang D, Chen B, Liu Q, Sun Y, Chen J, Zhang C. Influence of microplastics on microbial anaerobic detoxification of chlorophenols. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120707. [PMID: 36427829 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can absorb halogenated organic compounds and transport them into marine anaerobic zones. Microbial reductive dehalogenation is a major process that naturally attenuates organohalide pollutants in anaerobic environments. Here, we aimed to determine the mechanisms through which MPs affect the microbe-mediated marine halogen cycle by incubating 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) dechlorinating cultures with various types of MPs. We found that TCP was dechlorinated to 4-chlorophenol in biotic control and polypropylene (PP) cultures, but essentially terminated at 2,4-dichlorophenol in polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) cultures after incubation for 20 days. Oxygen-containing functional groups such as peroxide and aldehyde were enriched on PE and PET after incubation and corresponded to elevated levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the microorganisms. Adding PE or PET to the cultures exerted limited effects on hydrogenase and ATPase activities, but delayed the expression of the gene encoding reductive dehalogenase (RDase). Considering the limited changes in the microbial composition of the enriched cultures, these findings suggested that microbial dechlorination is probably affected by MPs through the ROS-induced inhibition of RDase synthesis and/or activity. Overall, our findings showed that extensive MP pollution is unfavorable to environmental xenobiotic detoxification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaochao Deng
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Pharmacy, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471000, Henan, China
| | - Lijia Jiang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Shengzhou Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shaoxing, 312400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Songtao Hu
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bairu Chen
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qing Liu
- The Guangxi Key Laboratory of Theory and Technology for Environmental Pollution Control, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541006, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuxia Sun
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiawang Chen
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunfang Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology and Pharmacology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China.
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48
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Zhai X, Zhang XH, Yu M. Microbial colonization and degradation of marine microplastics in the plastisphere: A review. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1127308. [PMID: 36876073 PMCID: PMC9981674 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1127308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine microplastic pollution is a growing problem for ecotoxicology that needs to be resolved. In particular, microplastics may be carriers of "dangerous hitchhikers," pathogenic microorganisms, i.e., Vibrio. Microplastics are colonized by bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, algae and protozoans, resulting in the biofilm referred to as the "plastisphere." The microbial community composition of the plastisphere differs significantly from those of surrounding environments. Early dominant pioneer communities of the plastisphere belong to primary producers, including diatoms, cyanobacteria, green algae and bacterial members of the Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria. With time, the plastisphere mature, and the diversity of microbial communities increases quickly to include more abundant Bacteroidetes and Alphaproteobacteria than natural biofilms. Factors driving the plastisphere composition include environmental conditions and polymers, with the former having a much larger influence on the microbial community composition than polymers. Microorganisms of the plastisphere may play key roles in degradation of plastic in the oceans. Up to now, many bacterial species, especially Bacillus and Pseudomonas as well as some polyethylene degrading biocatalysts, have been shown to be capable of degrading microplastics. However, more relevant enzymes and metabolisms need to be identified. Here, we elucidate the potential roles of quorum sensing on the plastic research for the first time. Quorum sensing may well become a new research area to understand the plastisphere and promote microplastics degradation in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhai
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Min Yu
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
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49
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Zhi Xiang JK, Bairoliya S, Cho ZT, Cao B. Plastic-microbe interaction in the marine environment: Research methods and opportunities. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107716. [PMID: 36587499 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 9 million metric tons of plastics enters the ocean annually, and once in the marine environment, plastic surfaces can be quickly colonised by marine microorganisms, forming a biofilm. Studies on plastic debris-biofilm associations, known as plastisphere, have increased exponentially within the last few years. In this review, we first briefly summarise methods and techniques used in exploring plastic-microbe interactions. Then we highlight research gaps and provide future research opportunities for marine plastisphere studies, especially, on plastic characterisation and standardised biodegradation tests, the fate of "environmentally friendly" plastics, and plastisphere of coastal habitats. Located in the tropics, Southeast Asian (SEA) countries are significant contributors to marine plastic debris. However, plastisphere studies in this region are lacking and therefore, we discuss how the unique environmental conditions in the SEA seas may affect plastic-microbe interaction and why there is an imperative need to conduct plastisphere studies in SEA marine environments. Finally, we also highlight the lack of understanding of the pathogenicity and ecotoxicological effects of plastisphere on marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Koh Zhi Xiang
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Sakcham Bairoliya
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Zin Thida Cho
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Bin Cao
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
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50
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Marsay KS, Ambrosino AC, Koucherov Y, Davidov K, Figueiredo N, Yakovenko I, Itzahri S, Martins M, Sobral P, Oren M. The geographical and seasonal effects on the composition of marine microplastic and its microbial communities: The case study of Israel and Portugal. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1089926. [PMID: 36910177 PMCID: PMC9992426 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1089926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Floating microplastic debris are found in most marine environments around the world. Due to their low density and high durability, plastic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene serve as stable floating substrates for the colonization of diverse communities of marine organisms. Despite the high abundance of microplastic debris in the oceans, it is not clear how the geographical location and season affect the composition of marine microplastic and its bacterial microbiome in the natural environment. Methods To address this question, microplastic debris were collected from the sea surface near estuaries in the Mediterranean Sea (Israel) and in the Atlantic Ocean (Portugal) during summer and winter of 2021. The microplastic physical characteristics, including shape, color, and polymer composition, were analyzed and the taxonomic structure of the microplastic bacterial microbiome was characterized using a high-resolution metabarcoding pipeline. Results Our results, supported by previously published data, suggest that the plastisphere is a highly diverse ecosystem which is strongly shaped by spatial and temporal environmental factors. The geographical location had the highest impact on the plastisphere physical characteristics and its microbiome composition, followed by the season. Our metabarcoding analysis showed great variability between the different marine environments with a very limited microbiome "core." Discussion This notion further emphasizes the importance of plastisphere studies in different geographical locations and/or seasons for the characterization of the plastisphere and the identification of plastic-associated species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana C Ambrosino
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Yuri Koucherov
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Keren Davidov
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Neusa Figueiredo
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Iryna Yakovenko
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Sheli Itzahri
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Marta Martins
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,DCEA - Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Sobral
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre & ARNET - Aquatic Research Network Associated Laboratory, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Matan Oren
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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