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Shruti VC, Kutralam-Muniasamy G, Pérez-Guevara F. Do microbial decomposers find micro- and nanoplastics to be harmful stressors in the aquatic environment? A systematic review of in vitro toxicological research. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166561. [PMID: 37633392 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Microbial decomposers (bacteria and fungi) are likely to interact with plastic particles introduced into natural systems, particularly micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), exposing them to a variety of risks. In vitro testing has proven to be an accessible and viable method for gaining insights into how microbial decomposers behave individually and systemically toward MNPs. Recent advances have enhanced our understanding of MNP interactions with organisms, revealing the molecular foundations of adaptive responses as well as the biological impact and potential risks to MNPs. Despite widespread attention, this topic has not yet been reviewed. Here, we conducted a systematic review of the available research to critically assess and highlight the most recent advances in two major areas: (1) methods for in vitro evaluation of environmentally relevant microbial decomposers to MNPs; and (2) current understanding of the underlying toxicity mechanisms gained from in vitro assessments. We also addressed the key considerations throughout and proposed available opportunities in the field. Our analysis revealed that MNPs' toxicity has been studied in vitro either alone or in combination with other contaminants (e.g., antibiotics and metallic nanoparticles), with Escherichia coli and polystyrene particles receiving the most attention. Moreover, there were methodological differences in terms of MNP size, shape, polymer, surface characteristics, exposure period, and concentrations. A combination of methods, including growth-viability tests, biochemical assays, and omics profiling (metabolomics and transcriptomics), were employed to detect the effects of MNP exposure and explain its toxicity mechanism. The current literature suggests that the impacts of MNPs on microbial decomposers include alterations in the antioxidative system, gene expression levels and cell-membrane permeability and oxidative damage, all of which can be further influenced by MNPs interaction with other contaminants. This review will thus provide critical insights and up-to-date knowledge to assist novices and experts in promoting advancements and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- V C Shruti
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Zhai X, Zhang XH, Yu M. Microbial colonization and degradation of marine microplastics in the plastisphere: A review. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1127308. [PMID: 36876073 PMCID: PMC9981674 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1127308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine microplastic pollution is a growing problem for ecotoxicology that needs to be resolved. In particular, microplastics may be carriers of "dangerous hitchhikers," pathogenic microorganisms, i.e., Vibrio. Microplastics are colonized by bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, algae and protozoans, resulting in the biofilm referred to as the "plastisphere." The microbial community composition of the plastisphere differs significantly from those of surrounding environments. Early dominant pioneer communities of the plastisphere belong to primary producers, including diatoms, cyanobacteria, green algae and bacterial members of the Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria. With time, the plastisphere mature, and the diversity of microbial communities increases quickly to include more abundant Bacteroidetes and Alphaproteobacteria than natural biofilms. Factors driving the plastisphere composition include environmental conditions and polymers, with the former having a much larger influence on the microbial community composition than polymers. Microorganisms of the plastisphere may play key roles in degradation of plastic in the oceans. Up to now, many bacterial species, especially Bacillus and Pseudomonas as well as some polyethylene degrading biocatalysts, have been shown to be capable of degrading microplastics. However, more relevant enzymes and metabolisms need to be identified. Here, we elucidate the potential roles of quorum sensing on the plastic research for the first time. Quorum sensing may well become a new research area to understand the plastisphere and promote microplastics degradation in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhai
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Min Yu
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China.,Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
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Abstract
High living standards and a comfortable modern way of life are related to an increased usage of various plastic products, yielding eventually the generation of an increased amount of plastic debris in the environment. A special concern is on microplastics (MPs), recently classified as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). This review focuses on MPs’ adverse effects on the environment based on their bioactivity. Hence, the main topic covered is MPs’ ecotoxicity on various aquatic (micro)organisms such as bacteria, algae, daphnids, and fish. The cumulative toxic effects caused by MPs and adsorbed organic/inorganic pollutants are presented and critically discussed. Since MPs’ bioactivity, including ecotoxicity, is strongly influenced by their properties (e.g., types, size, shapes), the most common classification of MPs types present in freshwater are provided, along with their main characteristics. The review includes also the sources of MPs discharge in the environment and the currently available characterization methods for monitoring MPs, including identification and quantification, to obtain a broader insight into the complex problem caused by the presence of MPs in the environment.
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Unruh C, Van Bavel N, Anikovskiy M, Prenner EJ. Benefits and Detriments of Gadolinium from Medical Advances to Health and Ecological Risks. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235762. [PMID: 33297578 PMCID: PMC7730697 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gadolinium (Gd)-containing chelates have been established as diagnostics tools. However, extensive use in magnetic resonance imaging has led to increased Gd levels in industrialized parts of the world, adding to natural occurrence and causing environmental and health concerns. A vast amount of data shows that metal may accumulate in the human body and its deposition has been detected in organs such as brain and liver. Moreover, the disease nephrogenic systemic fibrosis has been linked to increased Gd3+ levels. Investigation of Gd3+ effects at the cellular and molecular levels mostly revolves around calcium-dependent proteins, since Gd3+ competes with calcium due to their similar size; other reports focus on interaction of Gd3+ with nucleic acids and carbohydrates. However, little is known about Gd3+ effects on membranes; yet some results suggest that Gd3+ interacts strongly with biologically-relevant lipids (e.g., brain membrane constituents) and causes serious structural changes including enhanced membrane rigidity and propensity for lipid fusion and aggregation at much lower concentrations than other ions, both toxic and essential. This review surveys the impact of the anthropogenic use of Gd emphasizing health risks and discussing debilitating effects of Gd3+ on cell membrane organization that may lead to deleterious health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Unruh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (C.U.); (N.V.B.)
| | - Nicolas Van Bavel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (C.U.); (N.V.B.)
| | - Max Anikovskiy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (E.J.P.)
| | - Elmar J. Prenner
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (C.U.); (N.V.B.)
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (E.J.P.)
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Fadare OO, Wan B, Liu K, Yang Y, Zhao L, Guo LH. Eco-Corona vs Protein Corona: Effects of Humic Substances on Corona Formation and Nanoplastic Particle Toxicity in Daphnia magna. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:8001-8009. [PMID: 32464058 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite many studies on the toxicity of nanoplastic particles (NPPs) to aquatic invertebrates, the effects of ecological constituents such as humic substances (HSs) are often neglected. In our study, Daphnia magna was used to evaluate the effects of three HSs, natural organic matter (NOM), fulvic acid (FA), and humic acid (HA), on NPP toxicity and corona formation. Acute toxicities of NPPs were reduced by all HSs at environmentally relevant concentrations. NPPs elicited the upregulation of all genes related to detoxification, oxidative stress, and endocrine activity after 7 days of exposure. The presence of NOM or HA resulted in the mitigation of gene expression, whereas significantly higher upregulation of all of the genes was observed with FA. The presence of FA led to increased protein adsorption on NPPs in D. magna culture medium (eco-corona, EC) and homogenates (protein corona, PC), while there was less adsorption in the presence of HA. The highly abundant proteins identified in EC are involved in immune defense, cell maintenance, and antipredator response, while those in PC are responsible for lipid transport, antioxidant effects, and estrogen mediation. Our findings revealed the key influence of HSs on the toxicity of NPPs and provide an analytical and conceptual foundation for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluniyi O Fadare
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Wan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Keyang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang-Hong Guo
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, 168 Xueyuan Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310008, People's Republic of China
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Gambardella C, Piazza V, Albentosa M, Bebianno MJ, Cardoso C, Faimali M, Garaventa F, Garrido S, González S, Pérez S, Sendra M, Beiras R. Microplastics do not affect standard ecotoxicological endpoints in marine unicellular organisms. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 143:140-143. [PMID: 31789149 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.04.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the acute toxicity of microplastics (MPs) on unicellular organisms as marine decomposers and microalgae was assessed, by evaluating standards endpoints included in International Standard Organization (ISO) protocols. The bacteria Vibrio fischeri and the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum were exposed to different sizes (1-500 μm) of polyethylene MPs in order to evaluate bioluminescence inhibition and microalgal growth. No acute toxicity was found on bacteria or microalgae in an order of magnitude above environmentally relevant concentrations, suggesting that tested MPs did not affect the investigated biological processes. In conclusion, standard ecotoxicological endpoints are not sufficiently sensitive to assess the potential effects of MPs on decomposers and primary producers, conversely to nanoplastics. These findings highlight that the current approach for MP risk assessment in unicellular species should be revised, by providing alternative endpoints to be included in standardized protocols, able to monitor the fate and biological effects of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Gambardella
- Institute for the study of Anthropic impacts and Sustainability in marine environment - National research Council (CNR-IAS), Via de Marini 6, 16149 Genova, Italy.
| | - Veronica Piazza
- Institute for the study of Anthropic impacts and Sustainability in marine environment - National research Council (CNR-IAS), Via de Marini 6, 16149 Genova, Italy
| | - Marina Albentosa
- Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO), Oceanograhic Center of Murcia, Varadero 1, E-30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Cátia Cardoso
- CIMA, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Marco Faimali
- Institute for the study of Anthropic impacts and Sustainability in marine environment - National research Council (CNR-IAS), Via de Marini 6, 16149 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Garaventa
- Institute for the study of Anthropic impacts and Sustainability in marine environment - National research Council (CNR-IAS), Via de Marini 6, 16149 Genova, Italy
| | - Soledad Garrido
- Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO), Oceanograhic Center of Murcia, Varadero 1, E-30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Sergio González
- ECIMAT, University of Vigo, Illa de Toralla, E-36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Sara Pérez
- ECIMAT, University of Vigo, Illa de Toralla, E-36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Marta Sendra
- CIMA, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8000-139 Faro, Portugal; Department of Ecology and Coastal Management, Institute of Marine Sciences of Andalusia (CSIC), Campus Río San Pedro, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Ricardo Beiras
- ECIMAT, University of Vigo, Illa de Toralla, E-36331 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
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