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Gonzalez-Saldias F, Sabater F, Gomà J. Microplastic distribution and their abundance along rivers are determined by land uses and sediment granulometry. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173165. [PMID: 38740195 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics in freshwater ecosystems have gained attention for their potential impact on biodiversity. Rivers are complex and dynamic ecosystems that transport particles and organic matter from the headwaters through watersheds to the ocean. Changes in land use and the presence of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) increase the risk of plastic contamination. Simultaneously, hydromorphological features of the watershed can influence the dispersion and retention of microplastics. This study assesses the impact of urban land uses and river hydromorphology on microplastic abundance and spatial distribution in two watersheds with contrasting land uses. Unexpectedly, our findings show that microplastics were widespread throughout watersheds both in water (3.5 ± 3.3 particles/L) and sediments (56.9 ± 39.9 particles/g). The concentration of microplastics in sediments significantly increased in granulometry ranging from 0.5 to 1 mm. Microplastics in running waters are significantly correlated with increasing urban land use coverage. However, the presence and distance of WWTPs did not affect microplastic distribution. In conclusion, contrasting patterns were observed for suspended and sedimented microplastic particles: suspended microplastics were associated with an anthropogenic effect, whereas the concentration of microplastics in sediments was determined by riverbed granulometry. Our results suggest that the interaction of anthropogenic and environmental factors shapes microplastic distribution along the rivers and their subsequent transport toward the coastal ocean. Finally, a review of the current literature reveals the absence of standardization in field and laboratory assessment techniques and measurement units, representing a challenge for intercomparisons of river microplastic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Gonzalez-Saldias
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, and Environmental, Biology Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Freshwater Ecology, Hydrology, and Management Laboratory (FEHM-lab), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Francesc Sabater
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, and Environmental, Biology Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joan Gomà
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, and Environmental, Biology Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Freshwater Ecology, Hydrology, and Management Laboratory (FEHM-lab), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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2
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Athulya PA, Sunil Z, Manzo S, Chandrasekaran N. Prepared microplastics interaction with Artemia salina under low pH conditions representing ocean acidification; a simulated environmental exposure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119367. [PMID: 37871546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Ocean acidification and microplastic pollution are two of the major ecological concerns. The distribution of large quantities of plastic debris and microplastics all across the oceans emphasises the need to determine the influence of microplastics in ocean acidification and to evaluate its concomitant toxicological effects on aquatic life forms. Studies on the combined impact of both the stressors are very limited, but much needed in the current scenario. Where most of the present-day research use purchased microplastics of defined size and morphology (microspheres, fibres, rods, etc.), the present study employs prepared "true to life microplastics" that resemble the environmental microplastic pollutants in morphology and size heterogeneity. The present study focusses on evaluating the fate and impact of oceanic microplastics on the physiology and development of Artemia salina (Brine shrimp), one among the most ecologically significant zooplankton species. Natural sea water was acidified by controlled perturbation of carbon dioxide using a valve system. The hatching rate of A. salina cysts receded significantly (p < 0.05) upon singular exposures to microplastics and low pH (7.80), whereas combined effect was insignificant. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) elevated as a result of individual exposures to microplastics and low pH. However, only in 0.5 mg mL-1 PE treatments at pH 7.80, an additive impact was reported for ROS activity (p < 0.05). The SOD activities increased significantly but it can be attributed as the individual responses towards exposure to both the stressors. A significant additive impact was not observed for SOD activity (p > 0.05). But during the development, significant morphological anomalies were observed. Changes in the appendages of nauplii and juveniles as a result of combined exposure to microplastics and low pH treatments are significant findings. Our observations suggest that coupled exposure to microplastics and low pH could induce significant oxidative stress in the marine zooplanktons and also adversely affect their normal development. Findings from the current study emphasise the need for further research to understand the coupled toxicological impacts of ocean acidification and predominant pollutants such as microplastics to other marine animals as well.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zachariah Sunil
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Sonia Manzo
- ENEA Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Centro Ricerche Portici, 800055, Portici, Italy
| | - Natarajan Chandrasekaran
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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3
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Lin Q, Pang L, Ngo HH, Guo W, Zhao S, Liu L, Chen L, Li F. Occurrence of microplastics in three types of household cleaning products and their estimated emissions into the aquatic environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:165903. [PMID: 37524188 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in household cleaning products are a significant source of primary MPs. However, their presence in these products remain largely unknown. In this study, three types of common household cleaning products (laundry detergents, toilet bowl cleaners, and dishwashing detergents) were examined to assess the presence of MPs. The potential global emissions of MPs into aquatic environments resulting from the use of these products were estimated using statistics on global wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and household cleaning product markets. The average abundance of MPs in household cleaning products was 564.97 ± 327.83 n·kg-1, with toilet bowl cleaners having a significantly higher abundance than the other two products. The most commonly detected polymers in these products were polyamide (PA), silicone, polyurethane (PU), acrylate copolymer (ACR), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), while the size of the MPs ranged from 21.34 to 442.97 μm, with 81.52 % being <50 μm and 87.32 % being fragment-shaped. The estimated annual MP emissions from these three types of household cleaning products were 3.88 × 1013 ± 1.35 × 1013, with toilet bowl cleaners accounting for 56.44 % of the total emissions. MPs directly released without treatment in WWTPs (2.46 × 1013 n year-1) accounted for 63.40 % of the total emissions, highlighting the importance of increasing the treated rate of wastewater to reduce MP emissions. Sensitivity tests indicated that increasing the MP removal rates of secondary and tertiary WWTPs could also effectively reduce MP emissions. Moreover, gross and per capita MP emissions in 149 countries showed significant differences, which could be attributed to population, market size, demand for household cleaning products, and the level of MP removal among different countries. The findings of this study provide important insights into controlling MP contamination in household cleaning products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhui Lin
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Lihua Pang
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Huu Hao Ngo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NWS 2007, Australia
| | - Wenshan Guo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NWS 2007, Australia
| | - Shasha Zhao
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Liuqingqing Liu
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Lingyun Chen
- Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2P5, Canada
| | - Fengmin Li
- Institute of Coastal Environmental Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China; Marine Ecology and Environmental Science Laboratory, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China.
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4
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Phasukarratchai N. Effects and applications of surfactants on the release, removal, fate, and transport of microplastics in aquatic ecosystem: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:121393-121419. [PMID: 37999837 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30926-6] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and surfactants (STs) are emerging pollutants in the environment. While many studies have focused on the interactions of STs with MPs, there has not been a comprehensive review focusing on the effect of STs on MPs in aquatic ecosystems. This review summarizes methods for removal of MPs from wastewater (e.g., filtration, flotation, coagulation/flocculation, adsorption, and oxidation-reduction) and the interactions and effects of STs with MPs (adsorption, co-adsorption, desorption, and toxicity). STs can modify MPs surface properties and influence their removal using different wastewater treatments, as well as the adsorption-desorption of both organic and inorganic chemicals. The concentration of STs is a crucial factor that impacts the removal or adsorption of pollutants onto MPs. At low concentrations, STs tend to facilitate MPs removal by flotation and enhance the adsorption of pollutants onto MPs. High ST concentrations, mainly above the critical micelle concentrations, cause MPs to become dispersed and difficult to remove from water while also reducing the adsorption of pollutants by MPs. Excess STs form emulsions with the pollutants, leading to electrostatic repulsion between MPs/STs and the pollutant/STs. As for the toxicity of MPs, the addition of STs to MPs shows complicated results, with some cases showing an increase in toxicity, some showing a decrease, and some showing no effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naphatsarnan Phasukarratchai
- Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
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5
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Pastorino P, Barceló D. Microplastics and their environmental effects. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 104:104324. [PMID: 38000685 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are acknowledged as emerging contaminants that pose a substantial threat to the environment. The adverse impacts of MP pollution extend across marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, covering regions from the Tropics to the Poles. Although our comprehension of MP behavior has progressed in recent years, it is still difficult to predict exposure hotspots or exposure scenarios. Despite a noteworthy increase in data concerning MP occurrence in different environmental compartments and species, there is a noticeable scarcity of experimental data on MP uptake, accumulation, and effects. This Virtual Special Issue (VSI) received a total of 19 contributions from 11 countries, with a significant majority originating from Italy, India, Spain, and China. These contributions were categorized into three main themes: the occurrence and effects of MPs on aquatic and terrestrial organisms, the presence of chemical additives in plastics, and review articles summarizing previously published research on MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154 Torino, Italy.
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
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La Porta G, Magara G, Goretti E, Caldaroni B, Dörr AJM, Selvaggi R, Pallottini M, Gardi T, Cenci-Goga BT, Cappelletti D, Elia AC. Applying Artificial Neural Networks to Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Forager Honey Bees ( Apis mellifera) for Ecological Assessment. TOXICS 2023; 11:661. [PMID: 37624166 PMCID: PMC10459414 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Insect pollinators provide an important ecosystem service that supports global biodiversity and environmental health. The study investigates the effects of the environmental matrix on six oxidative stress biomarkers in the honey bee Apis mellifera. Thirty-five apiaries located in urban, forested, and agricultural areas in Central Italy were sampled during the summer season. Enzyme activities in forager bees were analyzed using an artificial neural network, allowing the identification and representation of the apiary patterns in a Self-Organizing Map. The SOM nodes were correlated with the environmental parameters and tissue levels of eight heavy metals. The results indicated that the apiaries were not clustered according to their spatial distribution. Superoxide dismutase expressed a positive correlation with Cr and Mn concentrations; catalase with Zn, Mn, Fe, and daily maximum air temperature; glutathione S-transferase with Cr, Fe, and daily maximal air temperature; and glutathione reductase showed a negative correlation to Ni and Fe exposure. This study highlights the importance of exploring how environmental stressors affect these insects and the role of oxidative stress biomarkers. Artificial neural networks proved to be a powerful approach to untangle the complex relationships between the environment and oxidative stress biomarkers in honey bees. The application of SOM modeling offers a valuable means of assessing the potential effects of environmental pressures on honey bee populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianandrea La Porta
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Gabriele Magara
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Enzo Goretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Barbara Caldaroni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Ambrosius Josef Martin Dörr
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Roberta Selvaggi
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Matteo Pallottini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Tiziano Gardi
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | | | - David Cappelletti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Antonia Concetta Elia
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy (E.G.); (D.C.)
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7
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Kessabi K, Abbassi A, Lahmar S, Casado M, Banni M, Piña B, Messaoudi I. Combined toxic effects of cadmium and environmental microplastics in Aphanius fasciatus (Pisces, Cyprinodontidae). MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 189:106071. [PMID: 37390514 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), plastic particles smaller than 5 mm in diameter, have received extensive attention as new environmental pollutants with still unexplored potential ecological risks. The main objective of the present study is to see if the concomitant exposure to MPs and Cd is more toxic than that to MPs or Cd separately in Aphanius fasciatus. Immature female were exposed to Cd and/or MPs for 21 days, and the subsequent effects were monitored by a combination of biochemical, histological and molecular toxicity markers. Exposure to Cd, but not to MPs, increased metallothioneins content and mRNA levels of the metallothioneins gene MTA both in liver and gills. In addition, we observed a significant oxidative stress response at histological, enzymatic (Catalase and Superoxide dismutase), non-enzymatic (proteins sulfhydryl and malondialdehyde) and gene expression levels to both toxicants in both tissues, particularly in gills, but no clear evidence for interaction between the two factors. Our results indicate a major effect of MPs on gills at different organizational levels. Finally, exposure to both MPs and Cd induced spinal deformities, although bone composition was only altered by the latter, whereas MTA mRNA bone levels were only increased realtive to controls in doubly-exposed samples. Interestingly, the simultaneous use of both pollutants produced the same effects as Cd and MPs alone, probably due to reduced bioavailability of this heavy metal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaouthar Kessabi
- LR11ES41: Laboratory of Genetic, Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology, University of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia.
| | - Amira Abbassi
- LR11ES41: Laboratory of Genetic, Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology, University of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia
| | - Samar Lahmar
- LR11ES41: Laboratory of Genetic, Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology, University of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia
| | - Marta Casado
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona, 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mohamed Banni
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology, ISA, Chott-Meriem, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Benjamin Piña
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona, 18, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- LR11ES41: Laboratory of Genetic, Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioressources, Higher Institute of Biotechnology, University of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia
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8
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Lee JH, Kang JC, Kim JH. Toxic effects of microplastic (Polyethylene) on fish: Accumulation, hematological parameters and antioxidant responses in Korean Bullhead, Pseudobagrus fulvidraco. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162874. [PMID: 36933717 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste discharged into the aquatic environment decomposes into microplastics (MP), which have toxic effects on fish species. Korean bullhead, Pseudobagrus fulvidraco is widely distributed in freshwater ecosystems in Korea, and it is important as an ecological indicator species to evaluate MP toxicity in Korea. In this study, the accumulation and physiological effects of juvenile P. fulvidraco exposed to microplastics (Polyethylene: PE-MPs with white surface and spherical shape) at control (0 mg/L), 100, 200, 5000 and 10,000 mg/L for 96 h were confirmed. Exposure to PE-MPs showed significant bioaccumulation of P. fulvidraco, and the accumulation profile was in the order of gut > gills > liver. Hematological parameters such as the red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Ht) were significantly decreased over 5000 mg/L In plasma components, calcium, magnesium and total protein were significantly decreased over 5000 mg/L, whereas glucose, cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly increased over 5000 mg/L or at 10,000 mg/L In antioxidant responses, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were significantly increased over 5000 mg/L, whereas glutathione (GSH) was significantly decreased over 5000 mg/L. The results of this study suggest that acute exposure to PE-MPs induced all physiological changes in a concentration-dependent manner, and it affects the hematological parameters, plasma components and antioxidant response of juvenile P. fulvidraco after accumulation in specific tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hyeong Lee
- Department of Aquatic Life Medicine, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ju-Chan Kang
- Department of Aquatic Life Medicine, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jun-Hwan Kim
- Department of Aquatic Life and Medical Science, Sun Moon University, Asan-si, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Nantege D, Odong R, Auta HS, Keke UN, Ndatimana G, Assie AF, Arimoro FO. Microplastic pollution in riverine ecosystems: threats posed on macroinvertebrates. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27839-9. [PMID: 37248351 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27839-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pollutants of emerging concern that have been reported in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems as well as in food items. The increasing production and use of plastic materials have led to a rise in MP pollution in aquatic ecosystems. This review aimed at providing an overview of the abundance and distribution of MPs in riverine ecosystems and the potential effects posed on macroinvertebrates. Microplastics in riverine ecosystems are reported in all regions, with less research in Africa, South America, and Oceania. The abundance and distribution of MPs in riverine ecosystems are mainly affected by population density, economic activities, seasons, and hydraulic regimes. Ingestion of MPs has also been reported in riverine macroinvertebrates and has been incorporated in caddisflies cases. Further, bivalves and chironomids have been reported as potential indicators of MPs in aquatic ecosystems due to their ability to ingest MPs relative to environmental concentration. Fiber and fragments are the most common types reported. Meanwhile, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate (polyester), polyamide, and polyvinyl chloride are the most common polymers. These MPs are from materials/polymers commonly used for packaging, shopping/carrier bags, fabrics/textiles, and construction. Ingestion of MPs by macroinvertebrates can physically harm and inhibit growth, reproduction, feeding, and moulting, thus threatening their survival. In addition, MP ingestion can trigger enzymatic changes and cause oxidative stress in the organisms. There is a need to regulate the production and use of plastic materials, as well as disposal of the wastes to reduce MP pollution in riverine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Nantege
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria.
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Robinson Odong
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Helen Shnada Auta
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Unique Ndubuisi Keke
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Gilbert Ndatimana
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Attobla Fulbert Assie
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
| | - Francis Ofurum Arimoro
- Applied Hydrobiology Unit, Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 65, Minna, Nigeria
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10
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Jia R, Han J, Liu X, Li K, Lai W, Bian L, Yan J, Xi Z. Exposure to Polypropylene Microplastics via Oral Ingestion Induces Colonic Apoptosis and Intestinal Barrier Damage through Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Mice. TOXICS 2023; 11:127. [PMID: 36851002 PMCID: PMC9962291 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Extensive environmental pollution by microplastics has increased the risk of human exposure to plastics. However, the biosafety of polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs), especially of PP particles < 10 μm, in mammals has not been studied. Thus, here, we explored the mechanism of action and effect of exposure to small and large PP-MPs, via oral ingestion, on the mouse intestinal tract. Male C57BL/6 mice were administered PP suspensions (8 and 70 μm; 0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/mL) for 28 days. PP-MP treatment resulted in inflammatory pathological damage, ultrastructural changes in intestinal epithelial cells, imbalance of the redox system, and inflammatory reactions in the colon. Additionally, we observed damage to the tight junctions of the colon and decreased intestinal mucus secretion and ion transporter expression. Further, the apoptotic rate of colonic cells significantly increased after PP-MP treatment. The expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptosis proteins significantly increased in colon tissue, while the expression of anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis proteins significantly decreased. In summary, this study demonstrates that PP-MPs induce colonic apoptosis and intestinal barrier damage through oxidative stress and activation of the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory signal pathway in mice, which provides new insights into the toxicity of MPs in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Jia
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jie Han
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Kang Li
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Wenqing Lai
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Liping Bian
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zhuge Xi
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
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11
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Provenza F, Anselmi S, Specchiulli A, Piccardo M, Barceló D, Prearo M, Pastorino P, Renzi M. Sparkling plastic: Effects of exposure to glitter on the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 96:103994. [PMID: 36183968 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microbeads and fragments have been widely studied, while glitter remains neglected by the literature although found in a variety product (e.g., body paints, nail polish, cosmetics, craft products). The main aim of this study was to assess the effects of different types and concentrations of glitter particles on Mytilus galloprovincialis after 7 days of exposure. The experiment was divided into a preliminary test and a confirmatory test. Our findings support the hypothesis for a link between concentration and type of glitter particles, percentage of recovery and oxidative stress in M. galloprovincialis. There was a significant correlation between particle length and percentage of particles recovered in water, suggesting that the digestive tract of M. galloprovincialis retains smaller particles more. In addition, we noted an increase in antioxidant defense induced by smaller particles. Moreover, certain types of glitter crumbled and shortened in length, resulting in higher levels of oxidative stress biomarkers. Finally, the star-shaped glitter particles had a different effect on oxidative stress biomarkers. Further studies are needed to clarify the toxic effects of glitter on aquatic organisms and to quantify its proportion to other microplastics in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Provenza
- Bioscience Research Center, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Antonietta Specchiulli
- National Research Council-Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies (IRBIM), Lesina, Italy
| | - Manuela Piccardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Damià Barceló
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), 17003 Girona, Spain; Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marino Prearo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Pastorino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, 10154 Torino, Italy.
| | - Monia Renzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
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12
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Helmberger MS, Grieshop MJ. Characterizing Fragmentation of Polystyrene Foam Debris by Isopods Oniscus asellus (Isopoda: Oniscidae) and Trachelipus rathkii (Isopoda: Trachelipodidae). ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 51:710-715. [PMID: 35834266 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics present a novel and potentially unique threat to soil ecosystems, one whose effects may be mediated by soil organisms themselves. We investigated fragmentation of polystyrene (PS) foam into microplastic particles by two isopods, Oniscus asellus L. and Trachelipus rathkii Brandt, in laboratory arena experiments. First, we examined the temporal dynamics of fragmentation across a time span of 96 h. O. asellus produced more fragments than T. rathkii, and neither species significantly fragmented the PS foam until 48 h had passed. Second, we asked whether O. asellus would still fragment PS foam in the presence of an alternate, more natural substrate like wood. Wood did not significantly affect fragmentation rates, in line with the few other studies examining the effect of alternate food on soil invertebrates' propensity to consume and/or fragment plastics. Our results provide additional characterization of PS foam fragmentation by isopods and indicate that laboratory experiments involving soil invertebrates and plastic debris can take place over relatively short timespans of four or fewer days, but do not necessarily need to provide alternate food to prove that plastic consumption would still occur in its presence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew J Grieshop
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
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13
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Bobori DC, Dimitriadi A, Feidantsis K, Samiotaki A, Fafouti D, Sampsonidis I, Kalogiannis S, Kastrinaki G, Lambropoulou DA, Kyzas GZ, Koumoundouros G, Bikiaris DN, Kaloyianni M. Differentiation in the expression of toxic effects of polyethylene-microplastics on two freshwater fish species: Size matters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154603. [PMID: 35337874 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The built up of microplastic (MPs) remains is shaping a new aquatic habitat and imposes the necessity for research of the effects that these relatively new pollutants exert on organisms, environment, and human health. The purpose of the present study was to verify if there is a particle-size dependence of fish response to MPs. Thus, we exposed two freshwater fish species, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) and perch (Perca fluviatilis) for 21 days to polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) sized 10-45 μm and 106-125 μm. Thereafter, in the liver and gills tissues, biochemical and molecular parameters and the metabolic profile were examined. Ex-vivo characterization by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy exhibited increased concentration of 10-45 μm PE-MPs in the liver of the two fish species while 106-125 μm PE-MPs mostly concentrated in fish gills. The penetration of PE-MPs to fish and the induced oxidative stress triggered changes in lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and ubiquitination and furthermore stimulated signal transduction pathways leading to autophagy and apoptosis. The smaller PE-MPs were more potent in inducing alterations to all the latter parameters measured than the larger ones. Tissue response in both fish seems to depend on the parameter measured and does not seem to follow a specific pattern. Our results showed that there is no clear sensitivity of one fish species versus the other, against both sizes of PE-MPs they were exposed. In perch the metabolic changes in gills were distinct to the ones observed in liver, following a size dependent pattern, indicating that stress conditions are generated through different mechanisms. All the parameters employed can be suggested further as biomarkers in biomonitoring studies against PE-MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra C Bobori
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos Feidantsis
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athina Samiotaki
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Danai Fafouti
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece; Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Sampsonidis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, GR-57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavros Kalogiannis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, GR-57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Kastrinaki
- Laboratory of Inorganic Materials, CERTH/CPERI, GR-570 01 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitra A Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, GR-654 04 Kavala, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios N Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Martha Kaloyianni
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece.
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14
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Liu Z, Huang Q, Wang H, Zhang S. An enhanced risk assessment framework for microplastics occurring in the Westerscheldt estuary. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 817:153006. [PMID: 35016924 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution in the aquatic environment raises considerable concerns. Freshwater system is generally considered as an important source for MPs transformation into the marine environment, however, only limited data on the MPs pollution in global freshwater systems is available at this time. In this study, we explored the abundance, characteristics and distribution of microplastics in the Scheldt River. The investigation results indicated that the abundance of microplastics in sediments (15-413 items/kg dry weight (DW)) was much higher than that in surface water (0-113 items/m3), and small size MPs (less than 500 μm) frequently appeared in sediments. Industrial activities were regarded as the major cause of MP discharging. Risk assessment models with using data of the concentration of MPs, polymer types and toxicity of MPs exposure were developed to assess the risk of MPs pollution in both surface water and sediment of the Westerscheldt estuary. Risk assessment results revealed that MPs exposure have potentially adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem and human health. MPs tend to be transported from "Hotspots", such as urban or industries area, to remote areas. The risk assessment of MPs serves as a baseline for better understanding the distribution and characteristics of MPs and highlights the need of intensively monitoring to limit MPs release by intensively monitoring. This research provides a perspective on the risk of MPs that could be used in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; College of Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Taicheng Road 3, 712100 Yangling, China.
| | - Qian'en Huang
- College of Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Taicheng Road 3, 712100 Yangling, China
| | - Hao Wang
- LIWET, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Campus Kortrijk, Graaf Karel De Goedelaan 5, B-8500 Kortrijk, Belgium; School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; KU Leuven, Department of Chemical Engineering, Process and Environmental Technology Lab, J. De Nayerlaan 5, B-2860 Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium
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