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Yamen SNM, Samsudin MS, Azid A, Norizan MN, Suradee APK, Rosli MIFM. First Evidence of Microplastic Ingestion by Riverine Fish From the Freshwater of Northwest Peninsular Malaysia. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 39119975 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
In a baseline study, we investigated microplastic contamination in fish from the Pinang and Kerian Rivers in Northwest Peninsular Malaysia. In recognition of the growing concern over microplastic pollution in aquatic environments, we aimed to assess the abundance and characteristics of microplastics ingested by various fish species. Fish samples were collected from local fishermen, followed by a digestion process using 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH). Microplastics were isolated and analyzed through visual examination and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results revealed a high prevalence of microplastics, with Johnius borneensis and Oreochromis sp. exhibiting the highest abundance, averaging 48.6 and 42.8 microplastics/g, respectively. The predominant shapes were fibers (55.6%) and fragments (25.9%), with colors primarily transparent (48.19%) and black (30.12%). Our results indicate significant contamination levels in freshwater fish, emphasizing the need for further research and effective mitigation strategies. These findings provide crucial baseline data on microplastics in Malaysian freshwater ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-10. © 2024 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohd Saiful Samsudin
- Environmental Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Azman Azid
- Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, University Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut Campus, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Nurazzi Norizan
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Aidee Putera Kamal Suradee
- Environmental Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
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Hoemann C, Bauer CA, Fissore C. Assessing meso-, micro-, and nanoplastic pollution in Los Angeles County estuaries. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116822. [PMID: 39116758 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Estuaries can behave as plastic pollution hotspots, although the dynamics of accumulation in these unique habitats are not understood. We quantified the current levels of meso-, micro-, and nanoplastic pollution in four Los Angeles County estuaries for the first time, as a function of distance from the water outlet and local population density. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and microscope imaging revealed the presence of six types of plastic; polyethylene or polypropylene dominated the meso- and microplastic, and nanoplastics were identified as mainly polyolefin fibers. The distribution was heterogeneous throughout, although the sand between the river mouth and ocean generally contained more plastic than inland control samples. Population density did not appear to affect the abundance of plastic estuarine pollution. Other factors, such as waste treatment effluent, recreation, and river geography, may contribute to plastic deposition. A positive correlation between meso- and microplastic abundance provides insight into such mechanisms for accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Hoemann
- Department of Environmental Science, Whittier College, Whittier, CA, United States of America
| | - Christina A Bauer
- Department of Environmental Science, Whittier College, Whittier, CA, United States of America.
| | - Cinzia Fissore
- Department of Environmental Science, Whittier College, Whittier, CA, United States of America
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Das N, Chowdhury GW, Siddique AB, Riya SC, Fazal MA, Sobhan F, Sarker S. The silent threat of plastics along the coastal frontiers of Bangladesh: Are we concerned enough? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116567. [PMID: 38875968 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Globally plastic pollution is posing a significant threat to the health and integrity of coastal ecosystems. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of plastic pollution in the coastal areas of Bangladesh by examining land-based macroplastic distribution, exploring microplastic (MP) contamination in the coastal aquatic ecosystem and enhancing our understanding of the potential risks associated with MP contamination. Citizen science based monitoring approach using the android application was applied to understand the land-based plastic pollution in the coastal area of Bangladesh. From December 2022 to December 2023, a total of about 3600 photographs of plastic items from 215 citizen scientists were received from the coastal area of Bangladesh covering 580 km long coast line. Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) and Pollution Load Index (PLI) were also calculated to understand the risk of plastic pollution in sediment, water, aquatic organism, dried fish and sea salt. A total of 43 land-based plastic items reported from the coastal area of Bangladesh. Among these plastic items single use items contributed 58.2 % while disposable plastic items contributed 41.8 %. A strong spatial variability in the distribution of these plastic items was observed. PHI and PLI values suggested hazard category-I for MP contamination in sediment, sea salt, water, commercial fishery resources and dry fish. This study highlighted that coastal land area, sea salt, dried fish, water, sediment and organisms are contaminated with plastics which might have the potential threats to human health. Findings from this study will serve as reference data and also baseline for future research to combat the plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Das
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | | | - Abu Bokkar Siddique
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Shashowti Chowdhury Riya
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Md Azizul Fazal
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Faisal Sobhan
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Subrata Sarker
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh.
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Maharjan KK, Dhungel RP. First-ever study uncovers microplastic contamination in Nepalese table salt. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34621. [PMID: 39082014 PMCID: PMC11284381 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34621] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous studies on microplastic contamination in table salt worldwide, research focusing on Nepalese table salts is remarkably lacking. This study aims to address this gap by investigating microplastic contamination in salt samples collected from all seven provincial zones of Nepal. Our objective is to comprehensively assess the presence and characteristics of microplastics in salt sold within local markets across the country. Five salt packaging companies utilized by Nepalese consumers were identified. The collected salt samples were digested with Fenton's reagent to extract microplastics, which were then observed under a digital microscope. Using an OMAX stereomicroscope at 30× magnification and an OMAX A3503S digital camera, each microplastic was carefully identified and quantified. FTIR analysis was conducted to identify the polymer types. All tested salt samples (100 %) from both Nepalese and Indian packaging companies contained microplastics. Microplastic abundance exhibits variability among the samples, ranging from 80 to 1040 microplastics per kilogram of salt. The average value stands at 381 ± 219 microplastics per kilogram of salt sample. The distribution of microplastic concentrations within the salt samples reveals that the majority fall within the 301-400 microplastics per kilogram salt range, constituting 33 % of the total samples. Color analysis showed diverse contamination sources, while microplastic shapes included fibers (56 %), films (17 %), fragments (16 %) and pellets (11 %). Polymer type analysis confirmed the presence of polyethylene and polypropylene in tested microplastics. The study estimated that Nepalese individuals ingest an average of 1853 microplastics annually, indicating significant exposure from salt consumption. Surprisingly, factors such as storage conditions, date of salt packaging and thickness of packaging material did not significantly affect microplastic presence in the samples, suspecting manufacturing processes as the primary contributors to contamination. Therefore, the raw materials and purification practices for salt need improvement, as existing methods are insufficient to eliminate microplastics. These findings emphasize the need for further research and mitigation efforts to address microplastic contamination in Nepalese salt and its potential health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishor Kumar Maharjan
- Department of Environmental Science, Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
| | - Ram Prasad Dhungel
- NEA Engineering Company (NES) Limited, Trade Tower building, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Demelash Abera B, Alefe Adimas M. Health benefits and health risks of contaminated fish consumption: Current research outputs, research approaches, and perspectives. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33905. [PMID: 39050454 PMCID: PMC11268356 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33905] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fish contains high-quality omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals and due to this it is termed as an essential component of a balanced diet. But there have been concerns raised about the risks of consuming fish that is contaminated with toxins such as methylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, pesticides, and plastic waste. Consumption of contaminated fish containing these pollutants is raising global mortality and morbidity rates. Scope and approaches The review examines the current research outputs on the health benefits and potential health risks of fish consumption. The review also discusses various approaches to mitigating the health problems caused by fish consumption, highlights the roles of balancing the risks and benefits when consuming fish. Key findings and conclusion Different findings indicated that contaminants cause cancer, kidney failure, adverse neurological effect, cardiovascular diseases, and so on to vulnerable groups such as pregnant, child breast-feeding and children. In conclusion, there is a need to get more tangible evidence about the advantages and disadvantages of fish consumption to safeguard the wellbeing of the society.
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Langlet R, Valentin R, Morard M, Raynaud CD. Transitioning to Microplastic-Free Seed Coatings: Challenges and Solutions. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1969. [PMID: 39065285 PMCID: PMC11280678 DOI: 10.3390/polym16141969] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the issue of replacing manufactured microplastics in seed coatings used in agriculture. Firstly, it focuses on the policy and regulatory actions taken on microplastics at a global level. There is no consensus within the scientific community on the definition of a microplastic and, more generally, on the classification of plastic debris. Nevertheless, several decision schemes have been proposed in an attempt to define the notion of microplastics. The different criteria relevant to this definition, such as the size, physical state, chemical structure, origin, and persistence of microplastics, are discussed, with a comparison being made between the REACH regulation and the scientific literature. Seed production and processing are also discussed, with the functions of seed coatings being explained in order to gain a better understanding of the properties to be considered in a substitution strategy for currently used microplastics. The main challenges are multiple; substitutes must provide the same performance as microplastics: (i) improving the adherence of the treatment to the seed, (ii) distributing the treatment more evenly over the seed, (iii) reducing the amount of dust-off when handling treated seed, and (iv) improving the seed flowability, which is particularly important during the sowing stage, all while preserving the physiological properties of the seed. Substitute polymers are proposed according to the desired performance and functional properties: two main chemical families of biopolymers were identified in the literature: polysaccharides and proteins. Among them, 13 and 6 polymers, respectively, complied with REACH regulation, demonstrating adhesion, dust reduction performances, and preservation of seed physiological quality in particular. This work aims to guide future studies on microplastic substitution in seed coatings, and to highlight research needs in this area. It is based on an analysis and discussion of the literature, identifying and listing potential substitutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rozenn Langlet
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-Industrielle (LCA), Univeristé de Toulouse, INRAE, Toulouse INP, 31030 Toulouse, France; (R.L.); (R.V.)
- Bois Valor, OLMIX, 13 rue Jean Mermoz, 81160 Saint-Juéry, France;
| | - Romain Valentin
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-Industrielle (LCA), Univeristé de Toulouse, INRAE, Toulouse INP, 31030 Toulouse, France; (R.L.); (R.V.)
| | - Marie Morard
- Bois Valor, OLMIX, 13 rue Jean Mermoz, 81160 Saint-Juéry, France;
| | - Christine Delgado Raynaud
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-Industrielle (LCA), Univeristé de Toulouse, INRAE, Toulouse INP, 31030 Toulouse, France; (R.L.); (R.V.)
- Centre d’Application et de Traitement des Agro-Ressources (CATAR), Toulouse INP, 31030 Toulouse, France
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Siddiqui S. Microplastics: A potential booster for PFAS in biosolids. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:912-913. [PMID: 38896091 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Samreen Siddiqui
- King County, Seattle, Washington, USA
- IEAM Editorial Board Member
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Bishop CR, Yan K, Nguyen W, Rawle DJ, Tang B, Larcher T, Suhrbier A. Microplastics dysregulate innate immunity in the SARS-CoV-2 infected lung. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1382655. [PMID: 38803494 PMCID: PMC11128561 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1382655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Global microplastic (MP) pollution is now well recognized, with humans and animals consuming and inhaling MPs on a daily basis, with a growing body of concern surrounding the potential impacts on human health. Methods Using a mouse model of mild COVID-19, we describe herein the effects of azide-free 1 μm polystyrene MP beads, co-delivered into lungs with a SARS-CoV-2 omicron BA.5 inoculum. The effect of MPs on the host response to SARS-CoV-2 infection was analysed using histopathology and RNA-Seq at 2 and 6 days post-infection (dpi). Results Although infection reduced clearance of MPs from the lung, virus titres and viral RNA levels were not significantly affected by MPs, and overt MP-associated clinical or histopathological changes were not observed. However, RNA-Seq of infected lungs revealed that MP exposure suppressed innate immune responses at 2 dpi and increased pro-inflammatory signatures at 6 dpi. The cytokine profile at 6 dpi showed a significant correlation with the 'cytokine release syndrome' signature observed in some COVID-19 patients. Discussion The findings are consistent with the recent finding that MPs can inhibit phagocytosis of apoptotic cells via binding of Tim4. They also add to a growing body of literature suggesting that MPs can dysregulate inflammatory processes in specific disease settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron R. Bishop
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kexin Yan
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Wilson Nguyen
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Daniel J. Rawle
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Bing Tang
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Thibaut Larcher
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche, Oniris, Nantes, France
| | - Andreas Suhrbier
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, Global Virus Network (GVN) Center of Excellence, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Lee SE, Yoon HK, Kim DY, Jeong TS, Park YS. An Emerging Role of Micro- and Nanoplastics in Vascular Diseases. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:255. [PMID: 38398764 PMCID: PMC10890539 DOI: 10.3390/life14020255] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular diseases are the leading causes of death worldwide, and they are attributable to multiple pathologies, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Exposure to various environmental contaminants is associated with the development of various diseases, including vascular diseases. Among environmental contaminants, micro- and nanoplastics have gained attention as global environmental risk factors that threaten human health. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on various human diseases, including vascular diseases. In this review, we highlight the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Eun Lee
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kyung Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (H.K.Y.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.J.)
| | - Do Yun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (H.K.Y.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.J.)
| | - Taek Seung Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (H.K.Y.); (D.Y.K.); (T.S.J.)
| | - Yong Seek Park
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Jing L, Zhao H. Microplastics induced inflammation in the spleen of developmental Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) via ROS-mediated p38 MAPK and TNF signaling pathway activation 1. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122891. [PMID: 37951530 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122891] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been found in virtually every environment on earth and become a source of pollution around the world. The toxicology of microplastics on immunity is an emerging area of research, and more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of microplastics exposure on animal health. Therefore, we tried to determine the immunotoxic effects of microplastics on avian spleen by using an animal model- Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). One-week chicks were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of 0.02 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg polystyrene microplastics in the feed for 5 weeks. The results demonstrated that microplastics induced microstructural injuries featured by cell disarrangement and vacuolation indicating splenic inflammation. Ultrastructural damages including membrane lysis and mitochondrial vacuolation also suggested inflammatory responses in the spleen by microplastics exposure. Meanwhile, increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) while the inactivation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) indicated oxidative stress in the spleen. Moreover, the increasing level of proinflammatory cytokines including Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and decreasing level of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) implied splenic inflammation. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis showed that microplastics induced inflammatory responses in the spleen through p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) pathway activation and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling stimulation. The signaling stimulation also aggravated cell apoptosis in the spleen. The present study may benefit to understand potential mechanisms of developmental immunotoxicology of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyu Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Lingyang Jing
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Hongfeng Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China.
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Zhao X, Gao S, Ouyang D, Chen S, Qiu C, Qiu H, Chen Z. Advances on micro/nanoplastics and their effects on the living organisms: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166722. [PMID: 37678525 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (MPs) are attracting increasing attention owing to the potential threats they pose to the sustainability of the environment and the health of living organisms. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the influence of MPs on living organisms is vital for developing countermeasures. We conducted an extensive literature search to retrieve the articles related to MPs via the Web of Science. Accordingly, 152 articles published in the last decade and in influential journals were selected to analyze the effects of MPs on plants, animals, microorganisms, and humans as well as the current status, hotspots, and trends of studies on MPs. The results showed that owing to the special characteristics of MPs and anthropogenic activities, MPs have become ubiquitous worldwide. MPs are ingested by plants and animals and enter the human body through various pathways, resulting in numerous adverse effects, such as growth inhibition, oxidative stress, inflammation, organ damage, and germ cell lesions. Moreover, they affect microorganisms by reshaping the structure and function of microbial communities and changing the spread pathway. However, microorganisms can also contribute to the degradation of MPs. With increasing evidence of the adverse effects of MPs on biota, coping with MP pollution and mitigating harmful outcomes have emerged as major challenges. This review focuses on (1) the main effects of MPs on living organisms, ranging from microorganisms to humans, (2) the current status and hotspots of studies related to MPs, and (3) the challenges and prospects of further studies on MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlin Zhao
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shuaishuai Gao
- Hunan Institute of Microbiology, Changsha 410009, Hunan Province, China
| | - Da Ouyang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Contamination Bioremediation of Zhejiang Province, School of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Su Chen
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Caisheng Qiu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Huajiao Qiu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Zhaoming Chen
- Institute of Environment, Resources, Soil and Fertilizer, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang Province, China.
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12
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Zarus GM, Muianga C, Brenner S, Stallings K, Casillas G, Pohl HR, Mumtaz MM, Gehle K. Worker studies suggest unique liver carcinogenicity potential of polyvinyl chloride microplastics. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:1033-1047. [PMID: 37742097 PMCID: PMC10841875 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plastic debris pervades our environment. Some breaks down into microplastics (MPs) that can enter and distribute in living organisms causing effects in multiple target organs. MPs have been demonstrated to harm animals through environmental exposure. Laboratory animal studies are still insufficient to evaluate human impact. And while MPs have been found in human tissues, the health effects at environmental exposure levels are unclear. AIM We reviewed and summarized existing evidence on health effects from occupational exposure to MPs. Additionally, the diverse effects documented for workers were organized by MP type and associated co-contaminants. Evidence of the unique effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on liver was then highlighted. METHODS We conducted two stepwise online literature reviews of publications focused on the health risks associated with occupational MP exposures. This information was supplemented with findings from animal studies. RESULTS Our analysis focused on 34 published studies on occupational health effects from MP exposure with half involving exposure to PVC and the other half a variety of other MPs to compare. Liver effects following PVC exposure were reported for workers. While PVC exposure causes liver toxicity and increases the risk of liver cancers, including angiosarcomas and hepatocellular carcinomas, the carcinogenic effects of work-related exposure to other MPs, such as polystyrene and polyethylene, are not well understood. CONCLUSION The data supporting liver toxicity are strongest for PVC exposure. Overall, the evidence of liver toxicity from occupational exposure to MPs other than PVC is lacking. The PVC worker data summarized here can be useful in assisting clinicians evaluating exposure histories from PVC exposure and designing future cell, animal, and population exposure-effect research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Zarus
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Custodio Muianga
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Stephan Brenner
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Katie Stallings
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gaston Casillas
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Hana R Pohl
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of Innovation and Analytics, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - M Moiz Mumtaz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of the Associate Director of Science, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kimberly Gehle
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Office of the Associate Director of Science, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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13
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Dainelli M, Pignattelli S, Bazihizina N, Falsini S, Papini A, Baccelli I, Mancuso S, Coppi A, Castellani MB, Colzi I, Gonnelli C. Can microplastics threaten plant productivity and fruit quality? Insights from Micro-Tom and Micro-PET/PVC. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165119. [PMID: 37364840 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Solanum lycopersicum L., a crop grown worldwide with a high nutritional value for the human diet, was used to test the impact of microplastics on plant growth, productivity, and fruit quality. Two of the most represented microplastics in soils, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were tested. Plants were grown in pots with an environmentally realistic concentration of microplastics and, during the whole crop life cycle, photosynthetic parameters, number of flowers and fruits were monitored. At the end of the cultivation, plant biometry and ionome were evaluated, along with fruit production and quality. Both pollutants had negligible effects on shoot traits, with only PVC causing a significant reduction in shoot fresh weight. Despite an apparent low or no toxicity during the vegetative stage, both microplastics decreased the number of fruits and, in the case of PVC, also their fresh weights. The plastic polymer-induced decline in fruit production was coupled with wide variations in fruit ionome, with marked increases in Ni and Cd. By contrast there was a decline in the nutritionally valuable lycopene, total soluble solids, and total phenols. Altogether, our results reveal that microplastics can not only limit crop productivity but also negatively impact fruit quality and enhance the concentration of food safety hazards, thus raising concerns for their potential health risks for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Dainelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Pignattelli
- CNR-Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Nadia Bazihizina
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Falsini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Alessio Papini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Ivan Baccelli
- CNR-Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Stefano Mancuso
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via delle Idee 30, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; Fondazione per il Futuro delle Città, Via Boccaccio 50, 50133 Firenze, Italy
| | - Andrea Coppi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Colzi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Gonnelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121 Florence, Italy
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14
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Li X, Zhao Y, Pu Q, He W, Yang H, Hou J, Li Y. Microplastics in cultivated soil environment: Construction of toxicity grading evaluation system, development of priority control checklist, and toxicity mechanism analysis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132046. [PMID: 37467609 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the toxicological effects of microplastics (MPs) on cultivated soil quality. Based on improved G1 evaluation method, we first constructed a grading evaluation system comprising of the indicators of toxicological effects of cultivated soil quality under MPs exposure, while focusing on types of MPs that had significant/non-significant toxicity effects. Furthermore, we verified reliability of screening results of significance-links at each level, using several data processing methods. Then, using natural breakpoint classification method, a priority control checklist of toxicological effects of 18 types of MPs on cultivated soil was developed to determine the types of MPs having significant toxicity risks and cultivated soil quality links significantly affected by the toxicity of MPs exposure. Finally, quantum-mechanics/molecular-mechanics (QM/MM) methods were used to carry out the differential toxicity mechanism analysis. The results showed that MPs with higher non-polar surface area may lead to stronger toxicity effect to the cultivated soil quality. Notably, the MPs that have abundant binding sites enhance the binding affinity, and less polar MPs bind more strongly to the non-polar amino acids of target receptors. Our study provides a new theoretical perspective for multi-dimensional analysis toxicological effects of different MPs exposure on cultivated soil quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinao Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qikun Pu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Wei He
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hao Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Jing Hou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Yu Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental System Optimization, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
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15
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Malafeev KV, Apicella A, Incarnato L, Scarfato P. Understanding the Impact of Biodegradable Microplastics on Living Organisms Entering the Food Chain: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3680. [PMID: 37765534 PMCID: PMC10534621 DOI: 10.3390/polym15183680] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as one of the world's most serious environmental issues, with harmful consequences for ecosystems and human health. One proposed solution to their accumulation in the environment is the replacement of nondegradable plastics with biodegradable ones. However, due to the lack of true biodegradability in some ecosystems, they also give rise to biodegradable microplastics (BioMPs) that negatively impact different ecosystems and living organisms. This review summarizes the current literature on the impact of BioMPs on some organisms-higher plants and fish-relevant to the food chain. Concerning the higher plants, the adverse effects of BioMPs on seed germination, plant biomass growth, penetration of nutrients through roots, oxidative stress, and changes in soil properties, all leading to reduced agricultural yield, have been critically discussed. Concerning fish, it emerged that BioMPs are more likely to be ingested than nonbiodegradable ones and accumulate in the animal's body, leading to impaired skeletal development, oxidative stress, and behavioral changes. Therefore, based on the reviewed pioneering literature, biodegradable plastics seem to be a new threat to environmental health rather than an effective solution to counteract MP pollution, even if serious knowledge gaps in this field highlight the need for additional rigorous investigations to understand the potential risks associated to BioMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annalisa Apicella
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II n. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (K.V.M.); (L.I.); (P.S.)
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16
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Shu R, Li Z, Gao S, Zhang S, Yu W. Occurrence and accumulation of microplastics in commercial fish in the coastal waters of the Lvsi fishing ground in China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115181. [PMID: 37542947 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115181] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been an exponential increase in the research popularity of microplastics (MPs) in offshore marine environments. However, there is still a gap in the research on the accumulation of MPs in different tissues of aquatic organisms and the trophic transfer of MPs between aquatic organisms. The common occurrence of MPs in the gills and guts of 11 species of commercial fishes was examined in the coastal waters of the Lvsi fishing ground (LSFG). The obtained results showed that >85 % of MPs existed in the gills and guts of these fish, and the abundance was 2.39 ± 1.38 pieces/fish and 2.56 ± 1.42 pieces/fish, respectively. Fibrous and blue are the most common colors and shapes of MPs, and PET is the main polymer type. At the species level, the abundance of MPs in the gills and guts of a few fishes (e.g., Larimichthys polyactis, Setipinna tenuifilis, Collichthys lucidus) decreased with increasing body length and body weight (P < 0.05). At the community level, this situation was not significant (P > 0.05). With increasing trophic level (TL), MPs tended to decrease in the gills (trophic magnification factor, TMF = 0.86) but did not significantly vary in the gut. We believe that MPs are multidimensional pollutants, and their accumulation in tissues/organs of organisms has not been accurately and qualitatively determined. To establish the relationship of MP transport and trophic transfer among water, sediments and organisms, we suggest that more efforts should be made to investigate MPs in aquatic organisms in the coastal waters of LSFG and to increase the examination of MPs in the water column and sediments. This study will help us improve our understanding of MPs pollution, and provide a good reference and basis for the management, monitoring and implementation of pollutants in marine organism of coastal water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruilin Shu
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Zheng Li
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Shike Gao
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Joint Laboratory for Monitoring and Conservation of Aquatic Living Resources In the Yangtze Estuary, Shanghai 200000, China.
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Jiangsu Research Institute of Marine Fisheries, Nantong 226007, China.
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17
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Zolotova N, Dzhalilova D, Tsvetkov I, Makarova O. Influence of Microplastics on Morphological Manifestations of Experimental Acute Colitis. TOXICS 2023; 11:730. [PMID: 37755741 PMCID: PMC10536389 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution poses a threat to human health. It is possible that the increase in the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease is associated with exposure to microplastics. We investigated the effect of the consumption of polystyrene microparticles with a diameter of 5 μm at a dose of 2.3 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks on morphological changes in the colons of healthy male C57BL/6 mice and of mice with acute colitis induced by a 1% dextran sulfate sodium solution (DSS). In healthy mice, microplastics caused an increase in the number of endocrine cells, an increase in the content of highly sulfated mucins in goblet cells, an increase in the number of cells in the lamina propria, and a decrease in the volume fraction of macrophages. Microplastic consumption caused more severe acute colitis, which is characterized by a greater prevalence of ulcers and inflammation and a decrease in the content of neutral mucins in goblet cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dzhuliia Dzhalilova
- Department of Immunomorphology of Inflammation, Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery”, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (N.Z.); (I.T.); (O.M.)
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18
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Bukhari NTM, Rawi NFM, Hassan NAA, Saharudin NI, Kassim MHM. Seaweed polysaccharide nanocomposite films: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 245:125486. [PMID: 37355060 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
A million tonnes of plastic produced each year are disposed of after single use. Biodegradable polymers have become a promising material as an alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Utilising biodegradable polymers will promote environmental sustainability which has emerged with potential features and performances for various applications in different sectors. Seaweed-derived polysaccharides-based composites have been the focus of numerous studies due to the composites' renewability and sustainability for industries (food packaging and medical fields like tissue engineering and drug delivery). Due to their biocompatibility, abundance, and gelling ability, seaweed derivatives such as alginate, carrageenan, and agar are commonly used for this purpose. Seaweed has distinct film-forming characteristics, but its mechanical and water vapour barrier qualities are weak. Thus, modifications are necessary to enhance the seaweed properties. This review article summarises and discusses the effect of incorporating seaweed films with different types of nanoparticles on their mechanical, thermal, and water barrier properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Thohiroh Md Bukhari
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Fazita Mohammad Rawi
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia.
| | - Nur Adilah Abu Hassan
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Nur Izzaati Saharudin
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Mohamad Haafiz Mohamad Kassim
- Bioresource Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia; Green Biopolymer, Coatings & Packaging Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
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19
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Lihua C, Zhiyin T. Microplastics aggravates rheumatoid arthritis by affecting the proliferation/migration/inflammation of fibroblast-like synovial cells by regulating mitochondrial homeostasis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110268. [PMID: 37201404 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease involving multiple joints. RA is a systemic disease characterized by chronic synovial inflammation and destruction of articular cartilage and bone. As a new pollutant, microplastics can enter the body through the respiratory and digestive tract and cause health damage. However, to date, the impact of microplastics on RA has not been revealed. Therefore, in the current research, we explored the impact of microplastics on RA. First, FLS (fibroblast-like synoviocytes) from RA was isolated and identified. FLS has been used as a cell model in vivo to study the potential impact of microplastics on FLS. Therefore, a series of biochemical experiments have been carried out, such as indirect immunofluorescence, western blotting and flow cytometry. First, we found that microplastics promote the proliferation of RA-FLSs through the MTT assay and the detection of cell proliferation markers and the cell cycle analysis through flow cytometry. On this basis, further research showed that microplastics also promoted the invasion and migration ability of RA-FLSs through Transwell experiments. In addition, microplastics also promote the secretion of inflammatory factors in RA-FLSs. In in vivo studies, the effect of microplastics on RA cartilage damage was evaluated. The results showed that RA cartilage damage was aggravated by microplastics, as determined by Alcian blue, toluidine blue and safranin O-fast green staining. Current research shows that microplastics, as a new pollutant, can promote sustained damage in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Lihua
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Tang Zhiyin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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20
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Farag AA, Youssef HS, Sliem RE, El Gazzar WB, Nabil N, Mouktar MM, Marei YM, Ismail NS, Radwaan SE, Badr AM, Sayed AEDH. Hematological Consequences of Polyethylene Microplastics Toxicity in Male Rats: Oxidative stress, Genetic, and Epigenetic links. Toxicology 2023; 492:153545. [PMID: 37169321 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a newly emerging environmental issue. MPs can accumulate within animals and humans, which can pose a serious health threat. Petroleum-based polyethylene (PE) is one of the most popular plastics. Accordingly, its exposure rates have steadily increased over the years. This study aimed to analyze the effects of PE-MPs on the hematological system of albino rats and the epigenetic effect. Five groups of adult male eight-weeks-old rats received either distilled water, corn oil, 3.75mg/kg PE-MPs, 15mg/kg PE-MPs, or 60mg/kg of PE-MPs, daily by oral gavage for 35 days. PE-MPs significantly increased the body weights of the rats and lipid peroxidation, with concomitant reduction of superoxide dismutase activity and depletion of reduced glutathione, thus adversely affecting oxidants/antioxidants balance. Moreover, PE-MPs increased the % of abnormal RBCs, irregular cells, tear drop cells, Schistocyte cells, and folded cells. The genotoxic effects on DNA were evident by increased DNA damage, confirmed by the comet assay, in addition to increased DNA methylation. The effects of PE-MPs have been shown to be dose correlated. In conclusion, this study provides evidence of dose-related PE-MPs-induced hematological, genotoxic, and epigenetic effects in mammals, and thus emphasizes the potentially hazardous health effects of environmental PE-MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina A Farag
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Heba S Youssef
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Rania E Sliem
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Walaa Bayoumie El Gazzar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; Department of Medical Biochemistry and molecular biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Nashwa Nabil
- Department of community, Environmental and occupational medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Maha M Mouktar
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Yasmin M Marei
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and molecular biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Nesma S Ismail
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa E Radwaan
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Benha University, 13518, Egypt
| | - Amira M Badr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Alaa El-Din Hamid Sayed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516, Egypt; Molecular Biology Research & Studies Institute, Assiut University, 71516 Assiut, Egypt.
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21
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Ayala F, Zeta-Flores M, Ramos-Baldárrago S, Tume-Ruiz J, Rangel-Vega A, Reyes E, Quinde E, De-la-Torre GE, Lajo-Salazar L, Cárdenas-Alayza S. Terrestrial mammals of the Americas and their interactions with plastic waste. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:57759-57770. [PMID: 36971935 PMCID: PMC10040927 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26617-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have brought many benefits to society, but their mismanagement has turned them into a serious environmental problem. Today, the effects of plastic waste on wildlife are becoming increasingly evident. Since studies on plastic pollution have focused on species in marine ecosystems, here we review current knowledge on interactions between terrestrial mammals and plastic waste in the countries of the Americas, which is a global hotspot of mammalian biodiversity and in turn has, among its member countries, nations with high per capita generations of plastic waste globally. We identified 46 scientific articles documenting plastic ingestion in 37 species and four species that used plastic waste for nest or burrow construction. Of the 46 investigations, seven focused on plastic contamination, while the others reported on the presence of plastics in wildlife, even though this was not the primary focus of the research. However, these publications lack analytical methods commonly used in plastic studies, and only one study applied a standardized methodology for plastic detection. Therefore, in general, plastic pollution research on terrestrial mammals is limited. We extend several recommendations such as designing methodologies that are adapted to terrestrial mammals for the identification of plastics in fecal matter or gastrointestinal contents, carrying out species-specific analyzes on the impacts of plastics in nests or burrows, and giving further attention to this understudied issue and taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix Ayala
- Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru.
- Subgerencia de Salud y Medio Ambiente, Municipalidad Provincial de Sechura, Piura, Peru.
| | - Martín Zeta-Flores
- Facultad de Ingeniería de Minas, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Peru
| | | | - Juan Tume-Ruiz
- Facultad de Ingeniería Pesquera, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Peru
| | - Antia Rangel-Vega
- Facultad de Ingeniería Pesquera, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Peru
| | - Eddy Reyes
- Facultad de Ingeniería Pesquera, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Peru
| | - Edgardo Quinde
- Facultad de Ingeniería Pesquera, Universidad Nacional de Piura, Piura, Peru
| | - Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| | - Leticia Lajo-Salazar
- División de Mastozoología, Centro de Ornitología y Biodiversidad (CORBIDI), Lima, Peru
| | - Susana Cárdenas-Alayza
- Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias y Filosofía, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
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22
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Malafaia G, Barceló D. Microplastics in human samples: Recent advances, hot-spots, and analytical challenges. Trends Analyt Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2023.117016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
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23
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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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24
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Canosa LF, Bertucci JI. The effect of environmental stressors on growth in fish and its endocrine control. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1109461. [PMID: 37065755 PMCID: PMC10098185 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1109461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Fish body growth is a trait of major importance for individual survival and reproduction. It has implications in population, ecology, and evolution. Somatic growth is controlled by the GH/IGF endocrine axis and is influenced by nutrition, feeding, and reproductive-regulating hormones as well as abiotic factors such as temperature, oxygen levels, and salinity. Global climate change and anthropogenic pollutants will modify environmental conditions affecting directly or indirectly fish growth performance. In the present review, we offer an overview of somatic growth and its interplay with the feeding regulatory axis and summarize the effects of global warming and the main anthropogenic pollutants on these endocrine axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Fabián Canosa
- Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-EByNT-UNSAM, Chascomús, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Luis Fabián Canosa, ; Juan Ignacio Bertucci,
| | - Juan Ignacio Bertucci
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IEO-CSIC), Vigo, Spain
- *Correspondence: Luis Fabián Canosa, ; Juan Ignacio Bertucci,
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25
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Liu J, Zhang L, Xu F, Meng S, Li H, Song Y. Polystyrene Microplastics Postpone APAP-Induced Liver Injury through Impeding Macrophage Polarization. TOXICS 2022; 10:792. [PMID: 36548625 PMCID: PMC9781384 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene microplastics (PS MPs) are micrometer-scale items degraded from plastics and have been detected in various organisms. PS MPs have been identified as causing cognitive, cardiac, intestinal, and hepatic damage. However, their role in liver regeneration under drug-induced liver injury remains unknown. Thus, the current study aims to evaluate the impact of PS MPs on liver repair during APAP hepatotoxicity. PS MPs pretreatment exacerbates mice mortality and hepatocyte apoptosis, suppresses hepatic cell proliferation, and disturbs the inflammatory response in the APAP-induced damage model. Further mechanism exploration uncovers that prior PS MPs administration is sufficient to recruit neutrophils and macrophages, which are necessary for tissue recovery in the acute liver injury model. However, the polarization capacity of macrophages to anti-inflammatory sub-type is significantly delayed in PS MPs plus APAP group compared to the single APAP group, which is the leading cause of tissue repair suppression. Overall, the current study supports a new insight to realize the toxicity of PS MPs in acute liver injury, which should be considered in health risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
- The Institute of Karst Wetland Ecology, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Lecong Zhang
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Fang Xu
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Songyan Meng
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Haitian Li
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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26
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Jung YS, Sampath V, Prunicki M, Aguilera J, Allen H, LaBeaud D, Veidis E, Barry M, Erny B, Patel L, Akdis C, Akdis M, Nadeau K. Characterization and regulation of microplastic pollution for protecting planetary and human health. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120442. [PMID: 36272609 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are plastic particles <5 mm in diameter. Since the 1950s, there has been an exponential increase in the production of plastics. As of 2015, it is estimated that approximately 6300 million metric tons of plastic waste had been generated of which 79% has accumulated in landfills or the natural environment. Further, it is estimated that if current trends continue, roughly 12,000 million metric tons of plastic waste will accumulate by 2050. Plastics and microplastics are now found ubiquitously-in the air, water, and soil. Microplastics are small enough to enter the tissues of plants and animals and have been detected in human lungs, stools, placentas, and blood. Their presence in human tissues and the food chain is a cause for concern. While direct clinical evidence or epidemiological studies on the adverse effects of microplastic on human health are lacking, in vitro cellular and tissue studies and in vivo animal studies suggest potential adverse effects. With the ever-increasing presence of plastic waste in our environment, it is critical to understand their effects on our environment and on human health. The use of plastic additives, many of which have known toxic effects are also of concern. This review provides a brief overview of microplastics and the extent of the microplastic problem. There have been a few inroads in regulating plastics but currently these are insufficient to adequately mitigate plastic pollution. We also review recent advances in microplastic testing methodologies, which should support management and regulation of plastic wastes. Significant efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastics are needed at the individual, community, national, and international levels to meet the challenge. In particular, significant reductions in plastic production must occur to curb the impacts of plastic on human and worldwide health, given the fact that plastic is not truly recyclable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youn Soo Jung
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vanitha Sampath
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mary Prunicki
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Juan Aguilera
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Harry Allen
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 9, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Desiree LaBeaud
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erika Veidis
- Center for Innovation in Global Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michele Barry
- Center for Innovation in Global Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Barbara Erny
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lisa Patel
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cezmi Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Mubeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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27
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Abdallah MF, Xu W, Abdeen A. Editorial: Environmental contaminants and animal health: Analysis, toxicity, and mitigation. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1102836. [PMID: 36570504 PMCID: PMC9773822 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1102836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed F. Abdallah
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,*Correspondence: Mohamed F. Abdallah
| | - Wang Xu
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory for the Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues in Foods, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ahmed Abdeen
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, Egypt,Center of Excellence in Screening of Environmental Contaminants (CESEC), Benha University, Toukh, Egypt
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28
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Rizwan K, Bilal M. Developments in advanced oxidation processes for removal of microplastics from aqueous matrices. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:86933-86953. [PMID: 36279055 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23545-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Continuous incorporation of microplastics (MPs) and their fragmented residues into the ecosystem has sparked significant scientific apprehensions about persistence, a multitude of sources, and toxicity impacts on human health and aquatic entities. Overcoming this multifaceted hazard necessitates the development of novel techniques with robust efficiencies to eliminate microplastics from the environmental compartments. Coagulation, flocculation, and membrane filtration are non-destructive techniques but necessitate extra steps for microplastic degradation, whereas biological means have been confirmed less efficient (less than 15% degradation). Recent reports have emphasized advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) as practical treatment alternatives, representing superior catalytic efficacy for microplastic degradation (≈30-95%). Nevertheless, additional investigations should be carried out to evaluate the performance of AOPs in degrading microplastics under real environmental matrices. Moreover, the detection of transformed metabolites, degradation mechanistic insights, and toxicity bioassays are required to substantiate AOP assumption as feasible remediation substitutes. This review focuses on the source, occurrence, discharge, transportation, and associated paramount health risks of microplastics. Advanced oxidation processes-assisted removal of microplastics from the aqueous matrices is thoroughly vetted with up-to-date findings. Factors affecting the degradation of MPs have been discussed in detail. In addition to the generalized mechanistic insights into photocatalytic degradation, the risk assessment of aging intermediates is also comprehended. Finally, the review was concluded by emphasizing current research gaps and incoming research tendencies to provide guidelines for efficiently addressing microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Rizwan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Sahiwal, Sahiwal, 57000, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, Ponzan, PL-60695, Poland
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29
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Zhong L, Jin H, Tang H, Xu Y, Liu X, Shen J. Intake of polyamide microplastics affects the behavior and metabolism of Drosophila. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 308:136485. [PMID: 36126743 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136485] [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: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of polyamide (PA) microplastics on Drosophila were studied by analysing their effects on feeding, fecundity, metabolism and spontaneous activity, using Drosophila as a model organism. In the 0.1 g/L and 1 g/L groups, there was an increase in the amount of food consumed by female Drosophila melanogaster and a decrease in the amount of food consumed by males in both the 0.1 g/L and 20 g/L groups. In the TG assay, males showed a significant decrease in the 10 g/L and 20 g/L groups. The male group showed a significant decrease in protein content in the 10 g/L and 20 g/L groups. Glucose content decreased in the female Drosophila 1g/L and 10 g/L groups. The highest concentration group of 20 g/L showed a decrease in glucose content in male Drosophila. Only the male Drosophila in the highest concentration group showed increased daytime activity. Egg production by females decreased significantly after feeding microplastic food. The above assays demonstrate the potential effects of PA microplastics on flies, where the consumption of food containing microplastics leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, thus affecting the nutritional metabolism of flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichao Zhong
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Hui Jin
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Hao Tang
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yifan Xu
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xingyou Liu
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Jie Shen
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
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30
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Abstract
Pollution with microplastic has become a prime environmental concern. The various ways in which human-made polymers and microorganisms interact are little understood, and this is particularly true for microplastic and pathogenic microorganisms. Previous reports demonstrated that expression of central virulence-associated protein A (VapA) of the pathogenic bacterium Rhodococcus equi is shut off at 30°C, whereas it is strongly expressed at 37°C, a temperature which may serve as an intrahost cue. Here, we show that cultivation at 30°C in disposable plastic tubes increases mRNA levels of vapA 70-fold compared to growth in conventional glass tubes. Strong expression of vapA in plastic tubes does not seem to be caused by a compound leaching from plastic but rather by tube surface properties. Expression stimulation during growth in plastic is regulated by the R. equi transcription regulators VirR and VirS, indicating that plastic-induced vapA expression is (co)regulated through the canonical vapA expression pathway. Our observations have important implications for the future analysis and assessment of environmental microplastic contaminations in that they show that, in principle, contact of pathogens with environmental plastic can increase their virulence. IMPORTANCE Millions of tons small plastic pieces (microplastic) find their way into the environment every year. They pose digestive and toxicity problems to various life forms in soil, freshwater, and seawater. Additionally, microplastic offers an opportunity for microorganisms to attach and to become an important part of a “plastisphere community.” The significance of our study lies in the documentation of a sharp increase in production of a central virulence factor by a bacterial pathogen when the bacterium is in touch with certain makes of plastic. Although this feature may not reflect an increased health risk in case of this particular soilborne pathogen, our data disclose a new facet of how microplastics can endanger life.
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