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Goswami S, Adhikary S, Bhattacharya S, Agarwal R, Ganguly A, Nanda S, Rajak P. The alarming link between environmental microplastics and health hazards with special emphasis on cancer. Life Sci 2024; 355:122937. [PMID: 39103046 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic contamination is a burgeoning environmental issue that poses serious threats to animal and human health. Microplastics enter the human body through nasal, dermal, and oral routes to contaminate multiple organs. Studies have advocated the existence of microplastics in human breast milk, sputum, faeces, and blood. Microplastics can find their ways to the sub-cellular moiety via active and passive approaches. At cellular level, microplastics follow clathrin and caveolae-dependent pathways to invade the sub-cellular environment. These environmental contaminants modulate the epigenetic control of gene expression, status of inflammatory mediators, redox homeostasis, cell-cycle proteins, and mimic the endocrine mediators like estrogen and androgen to fuel carcinogenesis. Furthermore, epidemiological studies have suggested potential links between the exposure to microplastics and the onset of various chronic diseases. Microplastics trigger uncontrolled cell proliferation and ensue tissue growth leading to various cancers affecting the lungs, blood, breasts, prostate, and ovaries. Additionally, such contamination can potentially affect sub-cellular signaling and injure multiple organs. In essence, numerous reports have claimed microplastic-induced toxicity and tumorigenesis in human and model animals. Nonetheless, the underlying molecular mechanism is still elusive and warrants further investigations. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of microplastics, covering their sources, chemistry, human exposure routes, toxicity, and carcinogenic potential at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohini Goswami
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
| | - Satadal Adhikary
- Post Graduate Department of Zoology, A.B.N. Seal College, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Ruchika Agarwal
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhratanu Ganguly
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
| | - Sayantani Nanda
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
| | - Prem Rajak
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, India.
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2
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Ali SS, Elsamahy T, Al-Tohamy R, Sun J. A critical review of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: Degradation mechanisms and removing strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 21:100427. [PMID: 38765892 PMCID: PMC11099331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2024.100427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste discarded into aquatic environments gradually degrades into smaller fragments, known as microplastics (MPs), which range in size from 0.05 to 5 mm. The ubiquity of MPs poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and, by extension, human health, as these particles are ingested by various marine organisms including zooplankton, crustaceans, and fish, eventually entering the human food chain. This contamination threatens the entire ecological balance, encompassing food safety and the health of aquatic systems. Consequently, developing effective MP removal technologies has emerged as a critical area of research. Here, we summarize the mechanisms and recently reported strategies for removing MPs from aquatic ecosystems. Strategies combining physical and chemical pretreatments with microbial degradation have shown promise in decomposing MPs. Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae, and specific enzymes are being leveraged in MP remediation efforts. Recent advancements have focused on innovative methods such as membrane bioreactors, synthetic biology, organosilane-based techniques, biofilm-mediated remediation, and nanomaterial-enabled strategies, with nano-enabled technologies demonstrating substantial potential to enhance MP removal efficiency. This review aims to stimulate further innovation in effective MP removal methods, promoting environmental and social well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh S. Ali
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Tamer Elsamahy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Rania Al-Tohamy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Jianzhong Sun
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
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3
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Galea J, Agius Anastasi A, Briffa SM. Design of a Weathering Chamber for UV Aging of Microplastics in the Mediterranean Region. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:35627-35633. [PMID: 39184482 PMCID: PMC11339838 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are an ever-growing concern in the environment. Their degradation may lead to greater absorption of toxic pollutants, which may ultimately pose a threat to human health. In the pursuit of understanding microplastics' fate, behavior, and toxicity, there is a vital need to understand their aging and weathering. For this, multiple weathering setup designs were put forward. However, standardization of a weathering setup presents a significant challenge to the field due to apparatus costs, wide range of experimental parameters, or the lack of detailed reporting. This work seeks to make much-needed data gathering more accessible by constructing a low-cost weathering chamber that simulates Mediterranean shore conditions. The weathering chamber incorporates UV irradiation, mechanical abrasion, and elevated temperatures. After extensive preliminary testing, the chamber was able to achieve the desired outcome along with UV-A irradiance values, which were similar to those in the Mediterranean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Galea
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
| | - Anthea Agius Anastasi
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
| | - Sophie M. Briffa
- Department of Metallurgy
and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malta, Msida MSD2080, Malta
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Robertson BP, Miller AJ, Rott GE, Quinn SM, Rahman E, Bachmann HR, Nistler AF, Xiong B, Calabrese MA. A Scalable and Surfactant-Free Emulsion Method for Producing Microbeads from Varied Biomass Feedstocks. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:17463-17475. [PMID: 39105736 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c01649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Despite national and international regulations, plastic microbeads are still widely used in personal care and consumer products (PCCPs). These exfoliants and rheological modifiers cause significant microplastic pollution in natural aquatic environments. Microbeads from nonderivatized biomass like cellulose and lignin can offer a sustainable alternative to these nondegradable microplastics, but processing this biomass into microbeads is challenging due to limited viable solvents and high biomass solution viscosities. To produce biomass microbeads of the appropriate size range for PCCPs (ca. 200-800 μm diameter) with shapes and mechanical properties comparable to those of commercial plastic microbeads, we used a surfactant-free emulsion/precipitation method, mixing biomass solutions in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (EMImAc) with various oils and precipitating with ethanol. While yield of microbeads within the target size range highly depends on purification conditions, optimized protocols led to >90% yield of cellulose microbeads. Kraft lignin was then successfully incorporated into beads at up to 20 wt %; however, higher lignin contents result in emulsion destabilization unless surfactant is added. Finally, the microbead shape and surface morphology can be tuned using oils of varying viscosities and interfacial tensions. Dripping measurements and pendant drop tensiometry confirmed that the higher affinity of cellulose for certain oil/IL interfaces largely controlled the observed surface morphology. This work thus outlines how biomass composition, oil viscosity, and interfacial properties can be altered to produce more sustainable microbeads for use in PCCPs, which have desirable mechanical properties and can be produced over a wide range of shapes and surface morphologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin P Robertson
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Audrey J Miller
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Gerald E Rott
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Siena M Quinn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Ehsanur Rahman
- Department of Civil, Environmental, & Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Hannah R Bachmann
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Abbie F Nistler
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Boya Xiong
- Department of Civil, Environmental, & Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Michelle A Calabrese
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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5
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Dalmau-Soler J, Boleda MR, Lacorte S. Routine method for the analysis of microplastics in natural and drinking water by pyrolysis coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1730:465153. [PMID: 39018737 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.465153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in water intended for human consumption represents a growing concern due to their ubiquity in the aquatic environments and the potential adverse effects on human health. In this context, validated and standardized analytical methods are required to minimize uncertainties associated with the determination of MPs in water, especially during the drinking water treatment process. In this study, a simple water sampling and extraction procedure and analysis using pyrolysis with gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) was developed to determine 7 types of polymers in water. Quality parameters associated with the method were evaluated, including limits of detection (MDL) and quantitation (MQL), linearity, precision, accuracy, and extended uncertainty. The developed methodology was validated by participating in the EUROQCHARM interlaboratory exercise, and the Z-scores were within the acceptable range for 4 of the 5 polymers tested. Finally, MPs were determined in river water, reclaimed water, and drinking water from the urban area of Barcelona and total concentrations ranged from 11.3 µg/L to 77.1 µg/L. The proposed methodology allows for simple (direct filtration of 100-500 mL of water with a 13 mm glass fiber filter), quantitative (µg/L), and rapid (with a total analysis time of 20 min per sample, including both pyrolysis and GC-MS) analysis of MPs in water intended for drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Dalmau-Soler
- Aigües de Barcelona, Empresa Metropolitana de Gestió del Cicle Integral de l'Aigua, S.A., General Batet 1-7, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Rosa Boleda
- Aigües de Barcelona, Empresa Metropolitana de Gestió del Cicle Integral de l'Aigua, S.A., General Batet 1-7, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Lacorte
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain.
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6
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Ghosal S, Bag S, Rao SR, Bhowmik S. Exposure to polyethylene microplastics exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease tightly associated with intestinal gut microflora. RSC Adv 2024; 14:25130-25148. [PMID: 39139248 PMCID: PMC11320195 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra04544k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene microplastics (PE MPs) have sparked widespread concern about their possible health implications because of their abundance, pervasiveness in the environment and in our daily life. Multiple investigations have shown that a high dosage of PE MPs may adversely impact gastrointestinal health. In tandem with the rising prevalence of Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in recent decades, global plastic manufacturing has risen to more than 300 million tons per year, resulting in a build-up of plastic by-products such as PE MPs in our surroundings. We have explored current advancements in the effect PE MPs on IBD in this review. Furthermore, we compared and summarized the detrimental roles of PE MPs in gut microbiota of different organisms viz., earthworms, super worm's larvae, yellow mealworms, brine shrimp, spring tails, tilapia, gilt-head bream, crucian carp, zebrafish, juvenile yellow perch, European sea bass, c57BL/6 mice and human. According to this review, PE MPs played a significant role in decreasing the diversity of gut microbiota of above-mentioned species which leads to the development of IBD and causes severe intestinal inflammation. Finally, we pinpoint significant scientific gaps, such as the movement of such hazardous PE MPs and the accompanying microbial ecosystems and propose prospective research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Ghosal
- Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Pondy-Cuddalore Main Road, Pillaiyarkuppam Pondicherry - 607402 India
| | - Sagar Bag
- Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Calcutta 92, A. P. C. Road Kolkata - 700009 India
| | - S R Rao
- Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Pondy-Cuddalore Main Road, Pillaiyarkuppam Pondicherry - 607402 India
| | - Sudipta Bhowmik
- Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Pondy-Cuddalore Main Road, Pillaiyarkuppam Pondicherry - 607402 India
- Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Calcutta 92, A. P. C. Road Kolkata - 700009 India
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Nissen L, Spisni E, Spigarelli R, Casciano F, Valerii MC, Fabbri E, Fabbri D, Zulfiqar H, Coralli I, Gianotti A. Single exposure of food-derived polyethylene and polystyrene microplastics profoundly affects gut microbiome in an in vitro colon model. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108884. [PMID: 39004044 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108884] [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: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widespread contaminants highly persistent in the environment and present in matrices to which humans are extensively exposed, including food and beverages. MP ingestion occurs in adults and children and is becoming an emerging public health issue. The gastrointestinal system is the most exposed to MP contamination, which can alter its physiology starting from changes in the microbiome. This study investigates by an omic approach the impact of a single intake of a mixture of polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) MPs on the ecology and metabolic activity of the colon microbiota of healthy volunteers, in an in vitro intestinal model. PE and PS MPs were pooled together in a homogeneous mix, digested with the INFOGEST system, and fermented with MICODE (multi-unit in vitro colon model) at loads that by literature correspond to the possible intake of food-derived MPs of a single meal. Results demonstrated that MPs induced an opportunistic bacteria overgrowth (Enterobacteriaceae, Desulfovibrio spp., Clostridium group I and Atopobium - Collinsella group) and a contextual reduction on abundances of all the beneficial taxa analyzed, with the sole exception of Lactobacillales. This microbiota shift was consistent with the changes recorded in the bacterial metabolic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Nissen
- DiSTAL - Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CIRI - Interdepartmental Centre of Agri-Food Industrial Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CRBA, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna 40100, Italy.
| | - Enzo Spisni
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Selmi 3 40126, Bologna, Italy; CRBA, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna 40100, Italy.
| | - Renato Spigarelli
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Selmi 3 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Flavia Casciano
- DiSTAL - Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CIRI - Interdepartmental Centre of Agri-Food Industrial Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CRBA, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna 40100, Italy.
| | - Maria Chiara Valerii
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Selmi 3 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Elena Fabbri
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Selmi 3 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Daniele Fabbri
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Tecnopolo di Rimini, via Dario Campana 71 47922, Rimini, Italy.
| | - Hira Zulfiqar
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Tecnopolo di Rimini, via Dario Campana 71 47922, Rimini, Italy.
| | - Irene Coralli
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Tecnopolo di Rimini, via Dario Campana 71 47922, Rimini, Italy.
| | - Andrea Gianotti
- DiSTAL - Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CIRI - Interdepartmental Centre of Agri-Food Industrial Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, P.za G. Goidanich, 60 47521, Cesena, Italy; CRBA, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, Bologna 40100, Italy.
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Prikler B, Bordós G, Kriszt B, Micsinai A, Szabó I, Nyírő-Fekete B, Palotai Z, Kaszab E, Szoboszlay S, Csenki Z. Detection of microplastics in zebrafish housing systems: Can microplastic background contamination affect the final results of microplastic-related toxicological tests? AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 273:107020. [PMID: 39002427 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.107020] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Concentrations of microplastics (MPs) were determined in three commonly used zebrafish housing systems to see if their levels could affect the final results of laboratory microplastic-related toxicology tests. MPs have received notable attention in the last few years, and their toxicology tests have also come to the fore. Zebrafish (Danio rerio), kept in fish housing systems, are widely used as models for MPs studies. Most of these systems contain a significant number of parts made of different polymers. As usage and amortization can erode these parts, MPs might appear in the keeping water or the fish body, which may represent a background load and possibly influence the results of microplastic-related toxicological tests. To take representative water samples from systems, two in-situ filtration techniques, a newly developed peristaltic pump-, and a jet pump-driven method were applied. The collected MP particles were analyzed with a Fourier-transform infrared microscope (detection limit 50 μm), and their possible origin was also investigated. The newly developed technique was more sufficient for sampling as it had a higher MPs recovery, especially in the smaller size range. Polyester, polyethylene and polypropylene were the most frequently detected polymers in the examined fish housing systems, the highest detected concentration was 0.31±0.12 particles/liter (0.22±0.16 μg/liter). These values are negligible compared to the literature data reporting enormously high applied MPs concentrations (104 - 2.21 × 108 particles/liter) during toxicology tests. The results also show that some detected MPs did not originate from the systems, their origin was presumed to be external.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bence Prikler
- Eurofins Analytical Services Hungary Ltd., Budapest 1045, Hungary; Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bordós
- Eurofins Analytical Services Hungary Ltd., Budapest 1045, Hungary
| | - Balázs Kriszt
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Micsinai
- Eurofins Analytical Services Hungary Ltd., Budapest 1045, Hungary
| | - István Szabó
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | | | - Zoltán Palotai
- Eurofins Analytical Services Hungary Ltd., Budapest 1045, Hungary
| | - Edit Kaszab
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary.
| | - Sándor Szoboszlay
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Csenki
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
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Omotola EO, Supriyanto G. Occurrence, detection and ecotoxicity of microplastics in selected environments-a systematic appraisal. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32095. [PMID: 39114069 PMCID: PMC11305261 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are being released into the environment in large quantities, especially in less developed parts of the world. This group of pollutants is mostly leached into the environment through heavy plastic dumpsites, pharmaceutical and personal care product containers, hospital wastes, plastic package accessories, and litter from food packaging. Consequently, these compounds are found in different compartments of the ecosystem, such as soils, sediments, biota, and, surprisingly, drinking water. The present study systematically appraised recent studies on MP pollution in the Asian and African environments. It also summarized the trends in the methods for the environmental monitoring of MPs and the removal strategies that have been employed. From the data gathered, the two key instrumentations involved are the microscopes for visualization and the Fourier transform-infra-red (FT-IR) spectrometer to classify or characterize the MPs. Based on the surveyed works of literature, China and South Africa have relatively more information on MP contamination of diverse matrices within their countries. Meanwhile, studies on the status of MP contamination should be conducted across all countries. Hence, this study becomes an eye-opener regarding the commencement of research works on the MP contamination of the environment, especially in other Asian and African countries with little or no information. Furthermore, the literature on ecotoxicity studies of MPs was investigated to ascertain the toxic nature of these compounds. This aspect of research is vital because it serves as a prerequisite for the remediation of these compounds. Microplastics have been declared lethal to biotic components, so all hands must be on deck to continuously remove them from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Oyinkansola Omotola
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijebu Ode, PMB 2118, Nigeria
- Department of Chemistry, Airlangga University Surabaya Indonesia, Indonesia
| | - Ganden Supriyanto
- Department of Chemistry, Airlangga University Surabaya Indonesia, Indonesia
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10
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Pirsaheb M, Nouri M, Massahi T, Makhdoumi P, Baban NA, Hossini H. Microplastics contamination in the most popular brands of Iranian sausages and evaluation of its human exposure. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34363. [PMID: 39100492 PMCID: PMC11295858 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution represents a nascent environmental contaminant that has recently infiltrated human life and the food chain. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the presence of MPs in different brands of Iranian sausages. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of MPs particles were conducted using stereo- and fluorescent microscopy, FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and SEM-EDS (Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) techniques. Samples were collected from the most commonly consumed sausage brands in Iranian markets. The findings showed that the various sausage brands contained an average abundance of 25.7 ± 21.68 (range 10-70) and 55.45 ± 45.5 (range 10-175) particles/kg based on optical and fluorescent microscopy analyses, respectively. Predominantly, MPs were identified in fiber form (77-89 %), with a smaller proportion present in fragmented form (11-23 %). Polymer analysis using FT-IR identified polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) as the primary constituents. Furthermore, the estimated annual intake (EAI) of MPs was calculated at 804 and 3517 particles/kg bw/year for adults and children, respectively, based on optical microscopy observations. In comparison, fluorescent microscopy indicated an intake of 1734 and 7589 particles/kg bw/year for the respective age groups. These results emphasize the potential of MPs contamination to penetrate into different food products including sausages through processing routes, which can threaten human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghdad Pirsaheb
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Monireh Nouri
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Tooraj Massahi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Pouran Makhdoumi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Negin Azadi Baban
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hooshyar Hossini
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Saraluck A, Techarang T, Bunyapipat P, Boonchuwong K, Pullaput Y, Mordmuang A. Detection of Microplastics in Human Breast Milk and Its Association with Changes in Human Milk Bacterial Microbiota. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4029. [PMID: 39064070 PMCID: PMC11277308 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13144029] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Presently, there is increasing public consciousness regarding the contamination and detection of microplastics (MPs) within the human body, and studies on the detection and characterization of MPs in human breast milk are limited. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of MPs found in human breast milk and examine the relationship between maternal hygiene practices, complications that may arise during breastfeeding, and the composition of the bacterial microbiota. Methods: Postpartum breast milk was analyzed for MPs using Raman micro-spectroscopy. The relationship between MP detection, maternal hygiene, breastfeeding complications, and bacterial microbiota was examined. In order to identify correlations and differences between groups that had detected and non-detected MPs, statistical analyses were performed, which involved demographic comparisons and correlation network analysis. Results: The mean age of the 59 postpartum women was 28.13 years. We found MPs in 38.98% of breast milk samples (23 of 59), exhibiting diverse morphological and chemical characteristics. Most MP polymers were polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride. Maternal hygiene and breastfeeding complications differed between the MPs-detected and non-detected groups. Maternal behaviors may influence the presence of microplastics in breast milk, which were associated with these differences. Bacterial microbiota analysis revealed significant taxonomic differences between the MPs-detected and non-detected groups. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus dominated the MPs-detected group, while Enterobacter, Escherichia, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter dominated the non-detected group. The MPs-detected group had a more even bacterial distribution, especially Bacteroides. Conclusions: This study found MPs in 38.98% of breast milk samples using Raman micro-spectrometry, with PP, PE, and PVC being the most common. Significant differences in maternal hygiene and breastfeeding complications were found between the groups with and without MPs. Breast milk microbiota may be linked to MP detection. Further study should be conducted to identify the possible maternal-child health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apisith Saraluck
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Tachpon Techarang
- Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Phattarika Bunyapipat
- Walailak University Hospital, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Khununya Boonchuwong
- Walailak University Hospital, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Yupparase Pullaput
- The Center for Scientific and Technological Equipment, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Auemphon Mordmuang
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand;
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12
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Kek HY, Tan H, Othman MHD, Lee CT, Ahmad FBJ, Ismail ND, Nyakuma BB, Lee KQ, Wong KY. Transforming pollution into solutions: A bibliometric analysis and sustainable strategies for reducing indoor microplastics while converting to value-added products. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118928. [PMID: 38636646 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118928] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as emerging indoor contaminants, have garnered attention due to their ubiquity and unresolved implications for human health. These tiny particles have permeated indoor air and water, leading to inevitable human exposure. Preliminary evidence suggests MP exposure could be linked to respiratory, gastrointestinal, and potentially other health issues, yet the full scope of their effects remains unclear. To map the overall landscape of this research field, a bibliometric analysis based on research articles retrieved from the Web of Science database was conducted. The study synthesizes the current state of knowledge and spotlights the innovative mitigation strategies proposed to curb indoor MP pollution. These strategies involve minimizing the MP emission from source, advancements in filtration technology, aimed at reducing the MP exposure. Furthermore, this research sheds light on cutting-edge methods for converting MP waste into value-added products. These innovative approaches not only promise to alleviate environmental burdens but also contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy by transforming waste into resources such as biofuels, construction materials, and batteries. Despite these strides, this study acknowledges the ongoing challenges, including the need for more efficient removal technologies and a deeper understanding of MPs' health impacts. Looking forward, the study underscores the necessity for further research to fill these knowledge gaps, particularly in the areas of long-term health outcomes and the development of standardized, reliable methodologies for MP detection and quantification in indoor settings. This comprehensive approach paves the way for future exploration and the development of robust solutions to the complex issue of microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yee Kek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Huiyi Tan
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Chew Tin Lee
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Nur Dayana Ismail
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Computing, Pen Resource University, P. M. B. 086, Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
| | - Kee Quen Lee
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Keng Yinn Wong
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
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13
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Morgan SE, Romanick SS, DeLouise L, McGrath J, Elder A. Understanding Human Health Impacts Following Microplastic Exposure Necessitates Standardized Protocols. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e1104. [PMID: 39018010 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.1104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs; 1 µm to 5 mm) are a persistent and pervasive environmental pollutant of emergent and increasing concern. Human exposure to MPs through food, water, and air has been documented and thus motivates the need for a better understanding of the biological implications of MP exposure. These impacts are dependent on the properties of MPs, including size, morphology, and chemistry, as well as the dose and route of exposure. This overview offers a perspective on the current methods used to assess the bioactivity of MPs. First, we discuss methods associated with MP bioactivity research with an emphasis on the variety of assays, exposure conditions, and reference MP particles that have been used. Next, we review the challenges presented by common instrumentation and laboratory materials, the lack of standardized reference materials, and the limited understanding of MP dosimetry. Finally, we propose solutions that can help increase the applicability and impact of future studies while reducing redundancy in the field. The excellent protocols published in this issue are intended to contribute toward standardizing the field so that the MP knowledge base grows from a reliable foundation. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Morgan
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Samantha S Romanick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, 480 Intercampus Drive, Rochester, New York
| | - Lisa DeLouise
- Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, New York
| | - James McGrath
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, 480 Intercampus Drive, Rochester, New York
| | - Alison Elder
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, New York, United States
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14
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Mansouri S. Recent developments of (bio)-sensors for detection of main microbiological and non-biological pollutants in plastic bottled water samples: A critical review. Talanta 2024; 274:125962. [PMID: 38537355 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The importance of water in all biological processes is undeniable. Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is crucial for maintaining sustainable water resources. To elaborate, the consumption of water of inadequate quality can have a repercussion on human health. Furthermore, according to the instability of tap water quality, the consumption rate of bottled water is increasing every day at the global level. Although most people believe bottled water is safe, it can also be contaminated by microbiological or chemical pollution, which can increase the risk of disease. Over the last decades, several conventional analytical tools applied to analyze the contamination of bottled water. On the other hand, some limitations restrict their application in this field. Therefore, biosensors, as emerging analytical method, attract tremendous attention for detection both microbial and chemical contamination of bottled water. Biosensors enjoy several facilities including selectivity, affordability, and sensitivity. In this review, the developed biosensors for analyzing contamination of bottled water were highlighted, as along with working strategies, pros and cons of studies. Challenges and prospects were also examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiene Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences in Al-Kharj, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia; University of Tunis El Manar, Higher Institute of Medical Technologies of Tunis, Laboratory of Biophysics and Medical Technologies, Tunis, Tunisia.
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15
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Sun T, Teng Y, Ji C, Li F, Shan X, Wu H. Global prevalence of microplastics in tap water systems: Abundance, characteristics, drivers and knowledge gaps. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172662. [PMID: 38649043 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Tap water is a main route for human direct exposure to microplastics (MPs). This study recompiled baseline data from 34 countries to assess the current status and drivers of MP contamination in global tap water systems (TWS). It was shown that MPs were detected in 87 % of 1148 samples, suggesting the widespread occurrence of MPs in TWS. The detected concentrations of MPs spanned seven orders of magnitude and followed the linearized log-normal distribution (MSE = 0.035, R2 = 0.965), with cumulative concentrations at 5th, 50th and 95th percentiles of 0.028, 4.491 and 728.105 items/L, respectively. The morphological characteristics were further investigated, indicating that particles smaller than 50 μm dominated in global TWS, with fragment, polyester and transparent as the most common shape, composition and color of MPs, respectively. Subsequently, the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) algorithm was implemented to quantify the importance of variables affecting the MP abundance in global TWS, showing that the lower particle size limit was the most important variables. Subgroup analysis revealed that the concentration of MPs counted at the size limit of 1 μm was >20 times higher than that above 1 μm. Ultimately, current knowledge gaps and future research needs were elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yuefa Teng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Chenglong Ji
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao 266237, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Fei Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Xiujuan Shan
- Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao 266237, PR China
| | - Huifeng Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai 264003, PR China; Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao 266237, PR China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Qingdao 266071, PR China.
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16
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Ziembowicz S, Kida M. The effect of water ozonation in the presence of microplastics on water quality and microplastics degradation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172595. [PMID: 38642756 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics in water treatment plants poses a concern for the quality of treated water. When microplastics pass through water treatment plants, they can be oxidized, changing their surface characteristics and the quality of the treated water. This work aimed to investigate the impact of ozone and the association of ozone and hydrogen peroxide on five different microplastic particles that are commonly detected in water samples. The changes in the concentration of total organic carbon and the change in the pH of the water, the leaching of phthalic acid esters, as well as the changes in size and chemical changes in the structure of the tested microplastics were evaluated. The influence of ozonation time, water pH, and type of microplastics, as well as the influence of the addition of hydrogen peroxide, was analyzed. The effect of ozonation was an increase in DOC values ranging from 0.8 to 28 mg/L. The eluting substances included phthalic acid esters, plasticizers with a proven negative impact on organisms. The percentage loss of the surface area of the microplastic was in the range of 1.3 to 26.7 %. PE was more susceptible to degradation. LDIR analyzes were carried out to investigate the effect of O3 and O3/H2O2 treatments on the surface of MPs. This study demonstrated that MPs could change their physical and chemical characteristics if they are subjected to oxidation processes used in water treatment plants. The parameters of purified water change to unfavorable ones due to the leaching of additives. Although much research has been conducted on the occurrence of microplastics in treated water, awareness needs to be raised about the interactions between plastic particles and water treatment technology processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Ziembowicz
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszów University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszów, al. Powstańców Warszawy 6, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Kida
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Rzeszów University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszów, al. Powstańców Warszawy 6, Poland
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17
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Liu R, Liao Z, Zheng J, Wu X, Tan Z, Ou H. Characterizing the photodegradation-induced release of volatile organic compounds from bottled water containers. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2024; 3:145-153. [PMID: 38638170 PMCID: PMC11021827 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
While plastic water bottles are known to potentially release various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when exposed to light, existing knowledge in this field remains limited. In this study, we systematically examined the composition, yield, and toxicity of VOCs released from six plastic containers obtained from different continents under UV-A and solar irradiation. After light exposure, all containers released VOCs, including alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, aldehydes, carboxylic acids, aromatics, etc. The 1#, 3#, 4#, 5#, and 6# containers exhibited 35, 32, 19, 24 and 37 species of VOCs, respectively. Specifically, the 2# container released 28 and 32 series of VOCs after 1-day (short-term) and 7-day (long-term) UV-A irradiation, respectively, compared to 30 and 32 species under solar irradiation. Over half of the VOCs identified were oxidized compounds alongside various short-chain hydrocarbons. Significant differences in VOC compositions among the containers were observed, potentially originating from light-induced aging and degradation of the polyethylene terephthalate structure in the containers. Toxicological predictions unveiled distinctive toxic characteristics of VOCs from each container. For example, among the various VOCs produced by the 2# container, straight-chain alkanes like n-hexadecane (544-76-3) were identified as the most toxic compounds. After long-term irradiation, the yield of these toxic VOCs from the 2# container ranged from 0.11 ng/g to 0.79 ng/g. Considering the small mass of a single bottle, the volatilization of VOCs from an individual container would be insignificant. Even after prolonged exposure to light, the potential health risks associated with inhaling VOCs when opening and drinking bottled water appear manageable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijuan Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Zhianqi Liao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Xinni Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Zongyi Tan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Huase Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
- Key Laboratory of Philosophy and Social Science in Guangdong Province of Community of Life for Man and Nature, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
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18
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Cao NDT, Vo DHT, Pham MDT, Nguyen VT, Nguyen TB, Le LT, Mukhtar H, Nguyen HV, Visvanathan C, Bui XT. Microplastics contamination in water supply system and treatment processes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171793. [PMID: 38513854 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171793] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Due to global demand, millions of tons of plastics have been widely consumed, resulting in the widespread entry of vast amounts of microplastic particles into the environment. The presence of microplastics (MPs) in water supplies, including bottled water, has undergone systematic review, assessing the potential impacts of MPs on humans through exposure assessment. The main challenges associated with current technologies lie in their ability to effectively treat and completely remove MPs from drinking and supply water. While the risks posed by MPs upon entering the human body have not yet been fully revealed, there is a predicted certainty of negative impacts. This review encompasses a range of current technologies, spanning from basic to advanced treatments and varying in scale. However, given the frequent detection of MPs in drinking and bottled water, it becomes imperative to implement comprehensive management strategies to address this issue effectively. Consequently, integrating current technologies with management options such as life-cycle assessment, circular economy principles, and machine learning is crucial to eliminating this pervasive problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Dan-Thanh Cao
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Dieu-Hien Thi Vo
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Mai-Duy-Thong Pham
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Truc Nguyen
- Faculty of Environment, Saigon University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Thanh-Binh Nguyen
- College of Hydrosphere Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, No. 142, Haijhuan Road, Nanzih District, Kaohsiung City 81157, Taiwan
| | - Linh-Thy Le
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP HCMC), 217 Hong Bang street, District 5th, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Hussnain Mukhtar
- Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Huu-Viet Nguyen
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Chettiyappan Visvanathan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Xuan-Thanh Bui
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung ward, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam.
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Gálvez-Blanca V, Edo C, González-Pleiter M, Fernández-Piñas F, Leganés F, Rosal R. Microplastics and non-natural cellulosic particles in Spanish bottled drinking water. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11089. [PMID: 38750101 PMCID: PMC11096351 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This investigation explored the presence of microplastics (MPs) and artificial cellulosic particles (ACPs) in commercial water marketed in single use 1.5 L poly(ethylene terephthalate) bottles. In this work we determined a mass concentration of 1.61 (1.10-2.88) µg/L and 1.04 (0.43-1.82) µg/L for MPs and ACPs respectively in five top-selling brands from the Spanish bottled water market. Most MPs consisted of white and transparent polyester and polyethylene particles, while most ACPs were cellulosic fibers likely originating from textiles. The median size of MPs and ACPs was 93 µm (interquartile range 76-130 µm) and 77 µm (interquartile range 60-96 µm), respectively. Particle mass size distributions were fitted to a logistic function, enabling comparisons with other studies. The estimated daily intake of MPs due to the consumption of bottled water falls within the 4-18 ng kg-1 day-1 range, meaning that exposure to plastics through bottled water probably represents a negligible risk to human health. However, it's worth noting that the concentration of plastic found was much higher than that recorded for tap water, which supports the argument in favour of municipal drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Gálvez-Blanca
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Edo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Fernández-Piñas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Leganés
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
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20
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Sofield CE, Anderton RS, Gorecki AM. Mind over Microplastics: Exploring Microplastic-Induced Gut Disruption and Gut-Brain-Axis Consequences. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:4186-4202. [PMID: 38785524 PMCID: PMC11120006 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46050256] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
As environmental plastic waste degrades, it creates an abundance of diverse microplastic particles. Consequently, microplastics contaminate drinking water and many staple food products, meaning the oral ingestion of microplastics is an important exposure route for the human population. Microplastics have long been considered inert, however their ability to promote microbial dysbiosis as well as gut inflammation and dysfunction suggests they are more noxious than first thought. More alarmingly, there is evidence for microplastics permeating from the gut throughout the body, with adverse effects on the immune and nervous systems. Coupled with the now-accepted role of the gut-brain axis in neurodegeneration, these findings support the hypothesis that this ubiquitous environmental pollutant is contributing to the rising incidence of neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. This comprehensive narrative review explores the consequences of oral microplastic exposure on the gut-brain-axis by considering current evidence for gastrointestinal uptake and disruption, immune activation, translocation throughout the body, and neurological effects. As microplastics are now a permanent feature of the global environment, understanding their effects on the gut, brain, and whole body will facilitate critical further research and inform policy changes aimed at reducing any adverse consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Sofield
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (C.E.S.); (R.S.A.)
| | - Ryan S. Anderton
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (C.E.S.); (R.S.A.)
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
| | - Anastazja M. Gorecki
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (C.E.S.); (R.S.A.)
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21
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Duncan TV, Khan SA, Patri AK, Wiggins S. Regulatory Science Perspective on the Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Human Food. Anal Chem 2024; 96:4343-4358. [PMID: 38452774 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are increasingly reported, not only in the environment but also in a wide range of food commodities. While studies on microplastics in food abound, the current state of science is limited in its application to regulatory risk assessment by a continued lack of standardized definitions, reference materials, sample collection and preparation procedures, fit-for purpose analytical methods for real-world and environmentally relevant plastic mixtures, and appropriate quality controls. This is particularly the case for nanoplastics. These methodological challenges hinder robust, quantitative exposure assessments of microplastic and nanoplastic mixtures from food consumption. Furthermore, limited toxicological studies on whether microplastics and nanoplastics adversely impact human health are also impeded by methodology challenges. Food safety regulatory agencies must consider both the exposure and the risk of contaminants of emerging concern to ascertain potential harm. Foundational to this effort is access to and application of analytical methods with the capability to quantify and characterize micro- and nanoscale sized polymers in complex food matrices. However, the early stages of method development and application of early stage methods to study the distribution and potential health effects of microplastics and nanoplastics in food have largely been done without consideration of the stringent requirements of methods to inform regulatory activities. We provide regulatory science perspectives on the state of knowledge regarding the occurrence of microplastics and nanoplastics in food and present our general approach for developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods for regulatory purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy V Duncan
- Division of Food Processing Science and Technology, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, Bedford Park, Illinois 60501, United States
| | - Sadia Afrin Khan
- Division of Analytical Chemistry, Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
| | - Anil K Patri
- Nanotechnology Core Facility, Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, United States Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, Arkansas 72029, United States
| | - Stacey Wiggins
- Division of Seafood Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
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22
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Shi H, He F, Huo C, Wan J, Song H, Du F, Liu R. Molecular mechanisms of polystyrene nanoplastics and alpha-amylase interactions and their binding model: A multidimensional analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170036. [PMID: 38242479 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170036] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastic fragments are widely distributed in different environmental media and has recently drawn special attention due to its difficulty in degradation and serious health and environmental problems. Among, nanoplastics (NPs) are smaller in size, larger in surface/volume ratio, and more likely to easily adsorb ambient pollutants than macro plastic particles. Moreover, NPs can be easily absorbed by wide variety of organisms and accumulate in multiple tissues/organs and cells, thus posing a more serious threat to living organisms. Alpha-amylase (α-amylase) is a hydrolase, which can be derived from various sources such as animals, plants, and microorganisms. Currently, no studies have concentrated on the binding of NPs with α-amylase and their interaction mechanisms by employing a multidimensional strategy. Hence, we explored the interaction mechanisms of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) with α-amylase by means of multispectral analysis, in vitro enzymatic activity analysis, and molecular simulation techniques under in vitro conditions. The findings showed that PS-NPs had the capability to bind with the intrinsic fluorescence chromophores, leading to fluorescence changes of these specific amino acids. This interaction also caused the alterations in the micro-environment of the fluorophore residues mainly tryptophan (TRP) and tyrosine (TYR) residues of α-amylase. PS-NPs interaction promoted the unfolding and partial expansion of polypeptide chains and the loosening of protein skeletons, and destroyed the secondary structure (increased random coil contents and decreased α-helical contents) of this protein, forming a larger particle size of the PS-NPs-α-amylase complex. Moreover, the enzymatic activity of α-amylase in vitro was found to be inhibited in a concentration dependent manner, thereby impairing its physiological functions. Further molecular simulation found that PS-NPs had a higher tendency to bind to the active site of α-amylase, which is the cause for its structural and functional changes. Additionally, the hydrophobic force played a major role in mediating the binding interactions between PS-NPs and α-amylase. Taken together, our study indicated that PS-NPs interaction can initiate the abnormal physiological functions of α-amylase through PS-NPs-induced structural and conformational alternations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijian Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Falin He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Chengqian Huo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Jingqiang Wan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Hengyu Song
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Fei Du
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China
| | - Rutao Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, China-America CRC for Environment & Health, Shandong Province, 72# Jimo Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, PR China.
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23
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Canga EM, Gowen A, Xu JL. Assessing the inconsistency of microplastic measurements in foods and beverages. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13315. [PMID: 38462817 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the food chain has gained substantial recognition as a pressing concern, highlighting the inevitability of human exposure through ingestion of foodborne MPs, coupled with the release of MPs from plastic packaging. However, there are notable disparities in the reported numbers of MPs in foods and beverages, warranting a thorough investigation into the factors contributing to these discrepancies. Table salt is one of the major sources of MPs, and there was an approximately hundred-fold difference between the reviewed studies that reported the highest and lowest number of MPs. In addition, more noticeable discrepancies were discovered between studies on MPs released from teabags. One study reported that approximately 15 billion MPs were released into a cup of tea from a single teabag, whereas another research paper found only approximately 106.3 ± 14.6 MP/teabag after brewing. This comprehensive review focuses on the inconsistencies observed across studies examining MPs, shedding light on the plausible factors underlying these variations. Furthermore, the review outlines areas in analytical procedures that require enhancement and offers recommendations to promote accuracy and standardization in future research efforts, such as employing analytical methods capable of confirming the presence of MPs, using appropriate filter sizes, considering representative sample sizes when extrapolation is involved, and so on. By pinpointing the detection processes leading to the inconsistent results observed in MP studies, this comparative analysis will contribute to the development of reliable analytic methods for understanding the extent of microplastic contamination in the human food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Merve Canga
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aoife Gowen
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jun-Li Xu
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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24
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Haleem N, Kumar P, Zhang C, Jamal Y, Hua G, Yao B, Yang X. Microplastics and associated chemicals in drinking water: A review of their occurrence and human health implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169594. [PMID: 38154642 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169594] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have entered drinking water (DW) via various pathways, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. This study provides a comprehensive review of MP-associated chemicals, such as oligomers, plasticizers, stabilizers, and ultraviolet (UV) filters that can be leached out during DW treatment and distribution. The leaching of these chemicals is influenced by various environmental and operating factors, with three major ones identified: MP concentration and polymer type, pH, and contact time. The leaching process is substantially enhanced during the disinfection step of DW treatment, due to ultraviolet light and/or disinfectant-triggered reactions. The study also reviewed human exposure to MPs and associated chemicals in DW, as well as their health impacts on the human nervous, digestive, reproductive, and hepatic systems, especially the neuroendocrine toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. An overview of MPs in DW, including tap water and bottled water, was also presented to enable a background understanding of MPs-associated chemicals. In short, certain chemicals leached from MPs in DW can have significant implications for human health and demand further research on their long-term health impacts, mitigation strategies, and interactions with other pollutants such as disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). This study is anticipated to facilitate the research and management of MPs in DW and beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Haleem
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA; Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Yousuf Jamal
- Institute of Chemical Engineering & Technology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Guanghui Hua
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Bin Yao
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Xufei Yang
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA.
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25
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Milne MH, De Frond H, Rochman CM, Mallos NJ, Leonard GH, Baechler BR. Exposure of U.S. adults to microplastics from commonly-consumed proteins. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123233. [PMID: 38159628 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
We investigated microplastic (MP) contamination in 16 commonly-consumed protein products (seafoods, terrestrial meats, and plant-based proteins) purchased in the United States (U.S.) with different levels of processing (unprocessed, minimally-processed, and highly-processed), brands (1 - 4 per product type, depending on availability) and store types (conventional supermarket and grocer featuring mostly natural/organic products). Mean (±stdev) MP contamination per serving among the products was 74 ± 220 particles (ranging from 2 ± 2 particles in chicken breast to 370 ± 580 in breaded shrimp). Concentrations (MPs/g tissue) differed between processing levels, with highly-processed products containing significantly more MPs than minimally-processed products (p = 0.0049). There were no significant differences among the same product from different brands or store types. Integrating these results with protein consumption data from the American public, we estimate that the mean annual exposure of adults to MPs in these proteins is 11,000 ± 29,000 particles, with a maximum estimated exposure of 3.8 million MPs/year. These findings further inform estimations of human exposure to MPs, particularly from proteins which are important dietary staples in the U.S. Subsequent research should investigate additional drivers of MPs in the human diet, including other understudied food groups sourced from both within and outside the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine H Milne
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks St, Toronto, ON, M5S 3B2, Canada
| | - Hannah De Frond
- Ocean Conservancy, 1300 19th St NW 8th floor, Washington, DC, 20036, USA; University of Toronto Trash Team, Toronto, Canada
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks St, Toronto, ON, M5S 3B2, Canada; University of Toronto Trash Team, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nicholas J Mallos
- Ocean Conservancy, 1300 19th St NW 8th floor, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - George H Leonard
- Ocean Conservancy, 1300 19th St NW 8th floor, Washington, DC, 20036, USA
| | - Britta R Baechler
- Ocean Conservancy, 1300 19th St NW 8th floor, Washington, DC, 20036, USA.
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26
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Kundu D, Dutta D, Joseph A, Jana A, Samanta P, Bhakta JN, Alreshidi MA. Safeguarding drinking water: A brief insight on characteristics, treatments and risk assessment of contamination. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:180. [PMID: 38244090 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12311-z] [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: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Water pollution stands as a critical worldwide concern, bearing extensive repercussions that extend to human health and the natural ecosystem. The sources of water pollution can be diverse, arising from natural processes and human activities and the pollutants may range from chemical and biological agents to physical and radiological contaminants. The contamination of water disrupts the natural functioning of the system, leading to both immediate and prolonged health problems. Various technologies and procedures, ranging from conventional to advanced, have been developed to eliminate water impurities, with the choice depending on the type and level of contamination. Assessing risks is a crucial element in guaranteeing the safety of drinking water. Till now, research is continuing the removal of contaminates for the sake of supplying safe drinking water. The study examined physical, inorganic, organic, biological and radiological contaminants in drinking water. It looked at where these contaminants come from, their characteristics, the impact they have and successful methods used in real-world situations to clean the contaminated water. Risk assessment methodologies associated with the use of unsafe drinking water as future directives are also taken into consideration in the present study for the benefit of public concern. The manuscript introduces a comprehensive study on water pollution, focusing on assessing and mitigating risks associated with physical, inorganic, organic, biological and radiological contaminants in drinking water, with a novel emphasis on future directives and sustainable solutions for public safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debajyoti Kundu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, 522 240, India.
| | - Deblina Dutta
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, 522 240, India.
| | - Anuja Joseph
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, 721 302, India
| | - Ankan Jana
- Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302 017, India
| | - Palas Samanta
- Department of Environmental Science, Sukanta Mahavidyalaya, University of North Bengal, Dhupguri, Jalpaiguri, 735 210, India
| | - Jatindra Nath Bhakta
- Department of Ecological Studies & International Centre for Ecological Engineering, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal, 741 235, India
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27
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Qian N, Gao X, Lang X, Deng H, Bratu TM, Chen Q, Stapleton P, Yan B, Min W. Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2300582121. [PMID: 38190543 PMCID: PMC10801917 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2300582121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics are now omnipresent in our daily lives. The existence of microplastics (1 µm to 5 mm in length) and possibly even nanoplastics (<1 μm) has recently raised health concerns. In particular, nanoplastics are believed to be more toxic since their smaller size renders them much more amenable, compared to microplastics, to enter the human body. However, detecting nanoplastics imposes tremendous analytical challenges on both the nano-level sensitivity and the plastic-identifying specificity, leading to a knowledge gap in this mysterious nanoworld surrounding us. To address these challenges, we developed a hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging platform with an automated plastic identification algorithm that allows micro-nano plastic analysis at the single-particle level with high chemical specificity and throughput. We first validated the sensitivity enhancement of the narrow band of SRS to enable high-speed single nanoplastic detection below 100 nm. We then devised a data-driven spectral matching algorithm to address spectral identification challenges imposed by sensitive narrow-band hyperspectral imaging and achieve robust determination of common plastic polymers. With the established technique, we studied the micro-nano plastics from bottled water as a model system. We successfully detected and identified nanoplastics from major plastic types. Micro-nano plastics concentrations were estimated to be about 2.4 ± 1.3 × 105 particles per liter of bottled water, about 90% of which are nanoplastics. This is orders of magnitude more than the microplastic abundance reported previously in bottled water. High-throughput single-particle counting revealed extraordinary particle heterogeneity and nonorthogonality between plastic composition and morphologies; the resulting multidimensional profiling sheds light on the science of nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naixin Qian
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Xiaoqi Lang
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
| | - Huiping Deng
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | | | - Qixuan Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY10032
| | - Phoebe Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ08854
| | - Beizhan Yan
- Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY10964
| | - Wei Min
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY10027
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28
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Maddela NR, Kakarla D, Venkateswarlu K, Megharaj M. Additives of plastics: Entry into the environment and potential risks to human and ecological health. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119364. [PMID: 37866190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119364] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
A steep rise in global plastic production and significant discharge of plastic waste are expected in the near future. Plastics pose a threat to the ecosystem and human health through the generation of particulate plastics that act as carriers for other emerging contaminants, and the release of toxic chemical additives. Since plastic additives are not covalently bound, they can freely leach into the environment. Due to their occurrence in various environmental settings, the additives exert significant ecotoxicity. However, only 25% of plastic additives have been characterized for their potential ecological concern. Despite global market statistics highlighting the substantial environmental burden caused by the unrestricted production and use of plastic additives, information on their ecotoxicity remains incomplete. By focusing on the ecological impacts of plastic additives, the present review aims to provide detailed insights into the following aspects: (i) diversity and occurrence in the environment, (ii) leaching from plastic materials, (iii) trophic transfer, (iv) human exposure, (v) risks to ecosystem and human health, and (vi) legal guidelines and mitigation strategies. These insights are of immense value in restricting the use of toxic additives, searching for eco-friendly alternatives, and establishing or revising guidelines on plastic additives by global health and environmental agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naga Raju Maddela
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Portoviejo, 130105, Ecuador
| | - Dhatri Kakarla
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kadiyala Venkateswarlu
- Formerly Department of Microbiology, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapuramu, 515003, India
| | - Mallavarapu Megharaj
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), College of Engineering Science and Environment, ATC Building, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of Environment (CRC CARE), The University of Newcastle, ATC Building, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
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29
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da Costa ID, Costa LL, Zalmon IR. Are fishes selecting the trash they eat? Influence of feeding mode and habitat on microplastic uptake in an artificial reef complex (ARC). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166788. [PMID: 37666344 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166788] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Every year, coastal countries generate ∼275 million tons of plastic, and the oceans receive from 4.8 to 12.7 million tons3. Pollution by synthetic polymers is even more problematic for the environment when this material is fragmented into small portions, forming microplastics (MPs). In the present study, we analyze the selection of MPs by the ichthyofauna based on the availability of the morphotypes and polymeric composition of microplastic in the environment and compare the amount of MP in surface water, water column, sediments and fish in different organs, trophic categories, habitats and areas with and without artificial reefs. In order to achieve this goal, the shape, color, abundance and chemical composition of MPs in the digestive tract and gills of 18 fish species in artificial reefs area and control area, were evaluated. A total of 216 fish were analyzed, and 149 (60 %) had MPs in at least one organ and showed a mean concentration of 1.55 ± 3.31 MPs/g. Of the 18 fish species collected in the reef complex area, 17 (94 %) included individuals with at least one MP in digestive tract or gills. Four species showed the higher selectivity of MP types, colors, and polymers. More MPs were found in the fish, surface water, water column and sediment in the artificial reef area compared to the control areas. This is the first evidence of MP selection by commercially important fish species in artificial marine structures worldwide. These results provide useful information on MP pollution in RAs and highlight yet another issue that must be considered in the management of fisheries resources in the region and in other reef complexes around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor David da Costa
- Departamento de Ciências Exatas, Biológicas e da Terra, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Santo Antônio de Pádua 28470-000, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Mestrado Profissional em Gestão e Regulação de Recursos Hídricos, Universidade Federal de Rondônia, 76900-726 Rondônia, Brazil; Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes 28013-602, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Lopes Costa
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes 28013-602, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ilana Rosental Zalmon
- Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense, Campos dos Goytacazes 28013-602, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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30
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Méndez Rodríguez KB, Jiménez Avalos JA, Fernández Macias JC, González Palomo AK. Microplastics: challenges of assessment in biological samples and their implication for in vitro and in vivo effects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:119733-119749. [PMID: 37971585 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30853-6] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have attracted global interest because they have been recognized as emerging pollutants that require urgent attention. MPs are plastic particles with a size between 1 micron and 5 mm (1 µm-5mm); those measuring less than 1 µm are known as nanoplastics (NPs). MP is distributed in the environment in various physical forms that depend on the degradation process, the erosion factors to which it was subjected, or the original form in which it was intentionally manufactured. Humans may be exposed to these pollutants mainly by ingestion or inhalation, which could adversely affect human health with effects that are still unknown due to limitations that are often dependent on their analytical determination and lack of studies over time, as it is a relatively new topic. Therefore, this review focuses on the challenges currently faced by laboratories for determining MPs in different matrices. We highlight the application of methods and techniques to assess the precise levels of exposure to MPs in biological samples. In addition, exposure pathways, sources, and evidence of adverse effects reported in vitro and in vivo studies are described to generate knowledge about their potential threat to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Beatriz Méndez Rodríguez
- Coordinación para la Innovación y Aplicación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
| | | | - Juan Carlos Fernández Macias
- Coordinación para la Innovación y Aplicación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
| | - Ana Karen González Palomo
- Coordinación para la Innovación y Aplicación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
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31
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Vega-Herrera A, Garcia-Torné M, Borrell-Diaz X, Abad E, Llorca M, Villanueva CM, Farré M. Exposure to micro(nano)plastics polymers in water stored in single-use plastic bottles. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140106. [PMID: 37689148 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140106] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to micro (nano)plastics (MNPLs) has become a significant concern as a potential health threat. Exposure routes include ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, being food and drinking water the primary sources of oral exposure. Here we present the quantification of polymers of MNPLs particles from 700 nm to 20 μm in bottled water commercialised in Spain, including an estimation of the potential risk for daily consumers. We evaluated samples from 20 popular brands in 0.5 and 1.5 L plastic bottles. A double-suspect screening approach developed and validated in our research group for drinking water was adapted for bottled water samples. The identification and quantification of MNPLs-polymers in mass units and the tentative identification of plastic additives (PA) until the second level of confidence was carried out based on high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS). The results showed the presence of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene terephthalate (PET) in the samples. Among them, PE was the most frequently detected and quantified polymer (55% of samples) followed by PET which was detected in 33% of the samples and showing the highest concentration (4700 ng L-1). The median value of the sum of polymer concentrations was 359 ng L-1. In addition, 28 plastic additives were detected, where at least one of them was present in 100% of the samples. Stabilizers and plasticisers were the most frequently identified. A prioritisation study was performed using a multi-QSAR modelling software, where bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate were estimated as the most potentially harmful compounds for human health. Overall, findings suggest that bottled water is a non-negligible route to exposure to MNPLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Vega-Herrera
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Garcia-Torné
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Borrell-Diaz
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Abad
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Llorca
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina M Villanueva
- ISGlobal, C. Doctor Aiguader, 88, Barcelona, 08003, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Pl. de La Mercè, 10-12, Barcelona, 08002, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, Madrid, 28029, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Passeig Marítim, 25-29, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Marinella Farré
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), CSIC, C. Jordi Girona, 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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Zorzi F, Bonfadini S, Aloisio L, Moschetta M, Storti F, Simoni F, Lanzani G, Criante L. Optofluidic Flow Cytometer with In-Plane Spherical Mirror for Signal Enhancement. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:9191. [PMID: 38005576 PMCID: PMC10675696 DOI: 10.3390/s23229191] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Statistical analysis of the properties of single microparticles, such as cells, bacteria or plastic slivers, has attracted increasing interest in recent years. In this regard, field flow cytometry is considered the gold standard technique, but commercially available instruments are bulky, expensive, and not suitable for use in point-of-care (PoC) testing. Microfluidic flow cytometers, on the other hand, are small, cheap and can be used for on-site analyses. However, in order to detect small particles, they require complex geometries and the aid of external optical components. To overcome these limitations, here, we present an opto-fluidic flow cytometer with an integrated 3D in-plane spherical mirror for enhanced optical signal collection. As a result, the signal-to-noise ratio is increased by a factor of six, enabling the detection of particle sizes down to 1.5 µm. The proposed optofluidic detection scheme enables the simultaneous collection of particle fluorescence and scattering using a single optical fiber, which is crucial to easily distinguishing particle populations with different optical properties. The devices have been fully characterized using fluorescent polystyrene beads of different sizes. As a proof of concept for potential real-world applications, signals from fluorescent HEK cells and Escherichia coli bacteria were analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Zorzi
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
- Department of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvio Bonfadini
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Ludovico Aloisio
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
- Department of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Moschetta
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Filippo Storti
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Francesco Simoni
- Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), 80072 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Luigino Criante
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Rubattino 81, 20134 Milan, Italy; (F.Z.); (S.B.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (G.L.)
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Bai R, Fan R, Xie C, Liu Q, Liu Q, Yan C, Cui J, He W. Microplastics are overestimated due to poor quality control of reagents. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132068. [PMID: 37494798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely distributed in the environment and pose potential ecological risks, increasing to be one of the most important environmental pollutants. However, when assessing the characteristics of microplastic contamination in environmental samples, inadequate quality control measures for the working solutions may introduce additional microplastic contamination and lead to an overestimation of microplastic abundance in the samples. In this study, we evaluated the microplastic contamination characteristics in commonly used flotation and digestion reagents to assess errors caused by microplastics in the reagents. The results showed that the abundance of microplastics in the reagents ranged from 0.8 to 43.4 items/g, with the abundance of microplastics in flotation reagents being lower than that in digestion reagents. The shapes of the detected microplastics included particles, fibers, and fragments, and their size and outline were generally small, with most being below 100 µm. The most common types of polymers detected were polyethylene and polypropylene. In order to improve the universality and readability of the results, the detected microplastic abundances were converted into the actual application concentration of the working fluid. It was found that the potential contamination of microplastics in untreated flotation solutions ranged from 1.5 to 30.8 items/mL, while in digestion solutions ranged from 0.1 to 2.3 items/mL. Our study emphasizes the need for quality control measures, such as suction filtration, when evaluating microplastics in environmental samples or conducting chemical and biological tests related to microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runhao Bai
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ruiqi Fan
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Changhong Xie
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Changrong Yan
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jixiao Cui
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Wenqing He
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China; Institute of Western Agricultural, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji 831100, Xinjiang, China.
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34
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Wright S, Levermore J, Ishikawa Y. Application of Infrared and Near-Infrared Microspectroscopy to Microplastic Human Exposure Measurements. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 77:1105-1128. [PMID: 37792505 PMCID: PMC10566227 DOI: 10.1177/00037028231199772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a global issue for the environment and human health. The potential for human exposure to microplastic through drinking water, dust, food, and air raises concern, since experimental in vitro and in vivo toxicology studies suggest there is a level of hazard associated with high microplastic concentrations. However, to infer the likelihood of hazards manifesting in the human population, a robust understanding of exposure concentrations is needed. Infrared and near-infrared microspectroscopies have routinely been used to analyze microplastic in different exposure matrices (air, dust, food, and water), with technological advances coupling multivariate and machine learning algorithms to spectral data. This focal point article will highlight the application of infrared and Raman modes of spectroscopy to detect, characterize, and quantify microplastic particles, with a focus on human exposure to microplastic. Methodologies and state-of-the-art approaches will be reported and potential confounding variables and challenges in microplastic analysis discussed. The article provides an up-to-date review of the literature on microplastic exposure measurement using (near) infrared spectroscopies as an analytical tool, highlighting the recent advances in this rapidly advancing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Wright
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
| | - Joseph Levermore
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
| | - Yukari Ishikawa
- Environmental Research Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London UK
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35
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Wang L, Cao X, Pei H, Liu P, Song Y, Wu Y. Anti-Biofilm Activity of Chlorogenic Acid against Pseudomonas Using Quorum Sensing System. Foods 2023; 12:3601. [PMID: 37835254 PMCID: PMC10572673 DOI: 10.3390/foods12193601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlorogenic acid is a secondary metabolite produced by many traditional Chinese medicines. Its physiological activities (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities, etc.) have been well described. This study aimed to investigate the effects of chlorogenic acid on the biofilm of drinking water bacteria. The effects of chlorogenic acid on the metabolites of the biofilms were also evaluated. Chlorogenic acid was found to have an anti-biofilm effect against Pseudomonas, resulting in biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner (0.53-25.4 mM CGA). Moreover, the biofilm structure was visibly attenuated. Furthermore, we identified and characterized 23 differential metabolites and associated two metabolic pathways involving beta-alanine metabolism and pyrimidine metabolism that were altered mostly during biofilm formation. A quantitative real-time PCR assay revealed that chlorogenic acid interfered with the signaling molecule synthesis and transcription regulators using the Las, Pqs and Rhl systems. These findings suggest that chlorogenic acid can be a quorum sensing (QS) inhibitor and inhibit biofilm formation. It may be a promising natural product for the prevention of contaminated drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (L.W.); (P.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.W.)
- School of Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Xueli Cao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (L.W.); (P.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.W.)
| | - Hairun Pei
- School of Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (L.W.); (P.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.W.)
- School of Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Ya Song
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (L.W.); (P.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.W.)
- School of Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Yulun Wu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China; (L.W.); (P.L.); (Y.S.); (Y.W.)
- School of Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100037, China
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36
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Singh S, Malyan SK, Maithani C, Kashyap S, Tyagi VK, Singh R, Malhotra S, Sharma M, Kumar A, Panday BK, Pandey RP. Microplastics in landfill leachate: Occurrence, health concerns, and removal strategies. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 342:118220. [PMID: 37290308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Landfills are commonly used to manage solid waste, but they can contribute to microplastic (MPs) pollution. As plastic waste degrades in landfills, MPs are released into the surrounding environment, contaminating soil, groundwater, and surface water. This poses a threat to human health and the environment, as MPs can adsorb toxic substances. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the degradation process of macroplastics into microplastics, the types of MPs found in landfill leachate (LL), and the potential toxicity of microplastic pollution. The study also evaluates various physical-chemical and biological treatment methods for removing MPs from wastewater. The concentration of MPs in young landfills is higher than in old landfills, and specific polymers such as polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, and polycarbonate contribute significantly to microplastic contamination. Primary treatments such as chemical precipitation and electrocoagulation can remove up to 60-99% of total MPs from wastewater, while tertiary treatments such as sand filtration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis can remove up to 90-99%. Advanced techniques, such as a combination of membrane bioreactor, ultrafiltration, and nanofiltration (MBR + UF + NF), can achieve even higher removal rates. Overall, this paper highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of microplastic pollution and the need for effective microplastic removal from LL to protect human and environmental health. However, more research is needed to determine the actual cost and feasibility of these treatment processes at a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Singh
- Environmnetal Hydrology Division, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Sandeep K Malyan
- Department of Environmental Studies, Dyal Singh Evening College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110003, India
| | - Chinmay Maithani
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Hanumakonda, 506004, India
| | | | - Vinay Kumar Tyagi
- Environmnetal Hydrology Division, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, 247667, India
| | - Rajesh Singh
- Environmnetal Hydrology Division, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, 247667, India.
| | - Sarthak Malhotra
- Department of Environmental Studies, Dyal Singh Evening College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110003, India
| | - Manish Sharma
- Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Soil Science and Chemistry Section, Host Plant Division, Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute, CSB, Mysore, Karnataka, 570008, India
| | - Bijay K Panday
- State Water and Sanitation Mission, Government of Uttrakhand, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
| | - R P Pandey
- Environmnetal Hydrology Division, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, 247667, India
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37
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Râpă M, Darie-Niță RN, Matei E, Predescu AM, Berbecaru AC, Predescu C. Insights into Anthropogenic Micro- and Nanoplastic Accumulation in Drinking Water Sources and Their Potential Effects on Human Health. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112425. [PMID: 37299225 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous pollutants found in aquatic, food, soil and air environments. Recently, drinking water for human consumption has been considered a significant pathway for ingestion of such plastic pollutants. Most of the analytical methods developed for detection and identification of MPs have been established for particles with sizes > 10 μm, but new analytical approaches are required to identify NPs below 1 μm. This review aims to evaluate the most recent information on the release of MPs and NPs in water sources intended for human consumption, specifically tap water and commercial bottled water. The potential effects on human health of dermal exposure, inhalation, and ingestion of these particles were examined. Emerging technologies used to remove MPs and/or NPs from drinking water sources and their advantages and limitations were also assessed. The main findings showed that the MPs with sizes > 10 μm were completely removed from drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). The smallest NP identified using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) had a diameter of 58 nm. Contamination with MPs/NPs can occur during the distribution of tap water to consumers, as well as when opening and closing screw caps of bottled water or when using recycled plastic or glass bottles for drinking water. In conclusion, this comprehensive study emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to detect MPs and NPs in drinking water, as well as raising the awareness of regulators, policymakers and the public about the impact of these pollutants, which pose a human health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Nicoleta Darie-Niță
- Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ecaterina Matei
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra-Mihaela Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei-Constantin Berbecaru
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Predescu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
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38
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Choudhury A, Simnani FZ, Singh D, Patel P, Sinha A, Nandi A, Ghosh A, Saha U, Kumari K, Jaganathan SK, Kaushik NK, Panda PK, Suar M, Verma SK. Atmospheric microplastic and nanoplastic: The toxicological paradigm on the cellular system. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115018. [PMID: 37216859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for plastic in our daily lives has led to global plastic pollution. The improper disposal of plastic has resulted in a massive amount of atmospheric microplastics (MPs), which has further resulted in the production of atmospheric nanoplastics (NPs). Because of its intimate relationship with the environment and human health, microplastic and nanoplastic contamination is becoming a problem. Because microplastics and nanoplastics are microscopic and light, they may penetrate deep into the human lungs. Despite several studies demonstrating the abundance of microplastics and nanoplastics in the air, the potential risks of atmospheric microplastics and nanoplastics remain unknown. Because of its small size, atmospheric nanoplastic characterization has presented significant challenges. This paper describes sampling and characterization procedures for atmospheric microplastics and nanoplastics. This study also examines the numerous harmful effects of plastic particles on human health and other species. There is a significant void in research on the toxicity of airborne microplastics and nanoplastics upon inhalation, which has significant toxicological potential in the future. Further study is needed to determine the influence of microplastic and nanoplastic on pulmonary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmol Choudhury
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | | | - Dibyangshee Singh
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Paritosh Patel
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India; Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Adrija Sinha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Aditya Nandi
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Aishee Ghosh
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Utsa Saha
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Khushbu Kumari
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Saravana Kumar Jaganathan
- School of Engineering, College of Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Pritam Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-75120 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Mrutyunjay Suar
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India.
| | - Suresh K Verma
- KIIT School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India.
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39
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Acarer S. Abundance and characteristics of microplastics in drinking water treatment plants, distribution systems, water from refill kiosks, tap waters and bottled waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 884:163866. [PMID: 37142004 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Limited research studies have revealed the presence of microplastics (MPs) of different polymer types, shapes, and sizes in drinking water sources, influents of drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), effluents of DWTPs, tap water, and bottled water. Reviewing the available information on MP pollution in waters, which is becoming more worrying in correlation with the increasing plastic production in the world every year, is noteworthy for understanding the current situation, identifying the deficiencies in the studies, and taking the necessary measures for public health as soon as possible. Therefore, this paper, in which the abundance, characteristics, and removal efficiencies of MPs in the processes from raw water to tap water and/or bottled water are reviewed is a guide for dealing with MP pollution in drinking water. In this paper, firstly, the sources of MPs in raw waters are briefly reviewed. In addition, the abundance, and characteristics (polymer type, shape, and size) of MPs in influents and effluents of DWTPs in different countries are reviewed and the effects of treatment stages (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, sand filtration, disinfection, and membrane filtration) of DWTPs on MP removal efficiency and the factors that are effective in removal are discussed. Moreover, studies on the factors affecting MP release from drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs) to treated water and the abundance and characteristics of MPs in tap water, bottled water and water from refill kiosks are reviewed. Finally, the deficiencies in the studies dealing with MPs in drinking water were identified and recommendations for future studies are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seren Acarer
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, İstanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Avcılar, 34320 İstanbul, Turkey.
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40
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Pro-Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Human and Murine Intestinal Cell Lines. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13010140. [PMID: 36671525 PMCID: PMC9856121 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic is a polymer extremely resistant to degradation that can remain for up to hundreds or thousands of years, leading to the accumulation of massive amounts of plastic waste throughout the planet's ecosystems. Due to exposure to various environmental factors, plastic breaks down into smaller particles named microplastics (1-5000 μm) and nanoplastics (<1 μm). Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants but, still, little is known about their effects on human and animal health. Herein, our aim is to investigate cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation and correlated gene modulation following exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in HRT-18 and CMT-93 epithelial cell lines. After 6, 24 and 48 h PS-MPs treatment, cell viability (MTT) and oxidative stress (SOD) assays were performed; subsequently, expression changes and cytokines release were investigated by Real-Time PCR and Magnetic-beads panel Multiplex Assay, respectively. For each exposure time, a significantly increased cytotoxicity was observed in both cell lines, whereas SOD activity increased only in CMT-93 cells. Furthermore, Magnetic-beads Multiplex Assay revealed an increased release of IL-8 in HRT-18 cells' medium, also confirmed by gene expression analysis. Results obtained suggest the presence of a pro-inflammatory pattern induced by PS-MPs treatment that could be related to the observed increase in cytotoxicity.
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41
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Angnunavuri PN, Attiogbe F, Mensah B. Particulate plastics in drinking water and potential human health effects: Current knowledge for management of freshwater plastic materials in Africa. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120714. [PMID: 36423889 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120714] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastic materials have contributed to the release of environmentally relevant particulate plastics which can be found almost everywhere and may be present in drinking water. Human exposure to these materials is diverse and our understanding of their internalization in the human body is incipient. This review discusses the state of knowledge of particulate plastics exposure in drinking water and the potential risks of adverse health in the human body. Particulate plastics have problematized water systems worldwide, and about 4,000,000 fine plastics may be ingested from drinking water annually by an individual. Testing methods for these materials in environmental media are presently inconsistent and standard protocols do not exist. Their potential ecotoxicological consequences are recognised to be linked to their physicochemical diversity, biological transpositions, and cytological tolerance in living organisms. It is observed that toxicological endpoints are varied and lack properly defined modes of action. In particular, fine particulate plastics have been observed to translocate into body tissues and cells where they are capable of provoking endocrine disruption, genetic mutations, and cancer responses. We propose a reclassification of particulate plastics to cater for their biological deposition and attributable risks of adverse health. Environmental management of particulate plastics in many developing countries is weak and their potential releases into drinking water have received limited research. Given that large populations are exposed to fresh surface water and plastic packaged drinking water worldwide, and that the risk assessment pathways are unvalidated at the moment, we argue for developing countries to increase their capacity for the environmental monitoring and circular management of plastic materials. Large-scale epidemiological cohort studies and surrogate assessment pathways are also recommended to provide a better understanding of the hazard characterization of particulate plastics exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Naah Angnunavuri
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Francis Attiogbe
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Bismark Mensah
- School of Engineering, Department of Materials Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Wilson AM, Victory KR, Reynolds KA, Cabrera NL, Larson D, Latura J, Sexton JD, Burgess JL, Beamer PI. Measured and Modeled Comparisons of Chemical and Microbial Contaminants in Tap and Bottled Water in a US-Mexico Border Community. ACS ES&T WATER 2022; 2:2657-2667. [PMID: 37810444 PMCID: PMC10552926 DOI: 10.1021/acsestwater.2c00400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Tap water quality concerns and advertisements often drive increased bottled water consumption, especially in communities with historical tap water quality problems (e.g., Nogales, Arizona). The study objective was to assess contamination of municipal tap and bottled water in Nogales, Arizona. Bottled (sealed, open/partially consumed bottles, and reusable containers for vended water) and tap water samples were collected from 30 homes and analyzed for chemical and microbial contaminants. Fisher exact tests and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used to compare proportions of positive samples and contaminant concentrations between tap and bottled water samples. While none of the chemical contaminants were above MCLs, there were statistically significantly greater concentrations and proportions of positive samples for some contaminants, including arsenic, in tap vs. bottled water. E. coli concentrations were >0 CFU/100mL in some unsealed bottled water samples but not for sealed bottles. This study demonstrates that 1) the measured concentrations in tap and bottled water likely pose low risks, as they are below the MCLs, 2) more education in this community on hygiene maintenance of refillable or opened bottled water containers is needed, and 3) using tap water over bottled water is advantageous due to likely lower E. coli risk and lower cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Wilson
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Kerton R Victory
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Kelly A Reynolds
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Nolan L Cabrera
- Center for the Study of Higher Education, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Daniela Larson
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Joyce Latura
- Mariposa Community Health Center, Nogales, Arizona, United States
| | - Jonathan D Sexton
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Jefferey L Burgess
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Paloma I Beamer
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
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Tse YT, Chan SMN, Sze ETP. Quantitative Assessment of Full Size Microplastics in Bottled and Tap Water Samples in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192013432. [PMID: 36294013 PMCID: PMC9602710 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to microplastics (MPs) through drinking water has drawn serious concern recently because of the potential adverse health effects. Although there are reports on the occurrence of MPs in bottled water, little is known about the abundance of a whole spectrum of MPs with sizes ranging from 1 µm to 5 mm due to the restrictions of conventional MPs detection methods. Some studies using micro-Raman spectroscopy can achieve MPs with a size of <10 µm, however, quantitation of all MPs was extremely time consuming and only a small portion (<10%) of MPs would be analyzed. The present study quantified MPs from nine brands of bottled water using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry for MPs with a size of ≥50 µm and a size of <50 µm, respectively. The average abundance of MPs with a size of ≥50 µm in bottled water samples was found ranging from 8-50 particles L-1, while MPs with a size of <50 µm were found to be 1570-17,817 particles L-1, where the MPs abundance from mineral water samples were significantly more than distilled and spring water samples. The modal size and shape of MPs were found at 1 µm and fragments, respectively. Besides, three tap water samples obtained locally were analyzed and compared with the bottled water samples, where less MPs were found in tap water samples. In addition, contamination of MPs from bottle and cap and interference by addition of mineral salts were studied, where no significant difference from all these processes to the control sample was found, suggesting the major contamination of MPs was from other manufacturing processes. Estimated daily intake (EDI) of MPs increased substantially when data of small MPs are included, suggesting that previously reports on exposure of MPs from drinking water might be underestimated, as only large MPs were considered.
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