Microplastics

Rev Environ Health. 2026 Aug 31. doi: 10.1515/reveh-2025-0059. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

In recent decades, airborne microplastics (MPs) and nano plastics have emerged as critical environmental pollutants, posing potential human health risks including respiratory issues such as asthma, alveolitis, and chronic bronchitis. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the distribution, characteristics and concentrations of airborne MPs in indoor and outdoor environments based on studies published up to October 2023. Following PRISMA guidelines, 27 eligible studies across 16 countries were selected, with 21 providing sufficient quantitative data for meta-analysis. Due to extreme, robust heterogeneity across the studies (I²>99 %), a random-effects model was applied. Sensitivity analyses confirmed these findings were stable and not driven by individual outliers. The results demonstrated that indoor environments were more polluted than outdoor settings. For example, moderately polluted indoor environments exhibited mean concentrations of 1,380.28 MP/m³ compared to 102.45 MP/m³ outdoors. However, these findings are presented as a descriptive summary of the literature to highlight methodological variability. Consistent with this, moderator analyses revealed that the most significant contributor to inter-study variability was the type of detection instrument used, with FTIR consistently reporting higher concentrations than microscopy or Raman spectroscopy. Sampling duration also significantly influenced the results. Additionally, indoor healthcare centers and outdoor urban areas were identified as the most heavily contaminated sub-environments. These findings highlight the urgent need for standardized sampling and detection protocols, while emphasizing the critical importance of monitoring and mitigating indoor air quality to reduce human exposure to airborne MPs.

PMID:42669045 | DOI:10.1515/reveh-2025-0059

J Environ Sci Health C Toxicol Carcinog. 2026 Aug 29:1-21. doi: 10.1080/26896583.2026.2722385. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This systematic review synthesized evidence on the health effects of microplastic exposure, with emphasis on organ-specific toxicity, molecular mechanisms, and implications for chronic disease. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies examining health outcomes associated with microplastic exposure relevant to bottled water consumption. Eligible studies included human observational studies, controlled animal experiments, and mechanistic in vitro investigations. Of 128 identified records, 15 studies met inclusion criteria: 3 human observational studies, 5 in vivo experiments, 4 in vitro investigations, and 3 mixed-design studies. Geographically, studies originated from China (40%), United States (20%), and other regions (40%). Polystyrene (10 studies), polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate (4 studies each) were most frequently investigated. Human biomonitoring confirmed microplastic presence in blood (3.15 ± 1.25 particles/mL), placental tissue (226-273 µg/g), and testicular samples (328 µg/g). Reproductive toxicity was the most consistently reported adverse outcome (5 studies), followed by hepatic, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, renal, developmental, and neurological effects. Across studies, oxidative stress (reported in 12 studies), inflammatory activation (10 studies), endocrine disruption (4 studies), and mitochondrial dysfunction (4 studies) emerged as principal mechanistic pathways. Chronic exposure to microplastics from bottled water may contribute to multisystem toxicity through oxido-inflammatory mechanisms.

PMID:42667298 | DOI:10.1080/26896583.2026.2722385

J Environ Sci Health C Toxicol Carcinog. 2026 Aug 29:1-21. doi: 10.1080/26896583.2026.2722385. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This systematic review synthesized evidence on the health effects of microplastic exposure, with emphasis on organ-specific toxicity, molecular mechanisms, and implications for chronic disease. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies examining health outcomes associated with microplastic exposure relevant to bottled water consumption. Eligible studies included human observational studies, controlled animal experiments, and mechanistic in vitro investigations. Of 128 identified records, 15 studies met inclusion criteria: 3 human observational studies, 5 in vivo experiments, 4 in vitro investigations, and 3 mixed-design studies. Geographically, studies originated from China (40%), United States (20%), and other regions (40%). Polystyrene (10 studies), polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate (4 studies each) were most frequently investigated. Human biomonitoring confirmed microplastic presence in blood (3.15 ± 1.25 particles/mL), placental tissue (226-273 µg/g), and testicular samples (328 µg/g). Reproductive toxicity was the most consistently reported adverse outcome (5 studies), followed by hepatic, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, renal, developmental, and neurological effects. Across studies, oxidative stress (reported in 12 studies), inflammatory activation (10 studies), endocrine disruption (4 studies), and mitochondrial dysfunction (4 studies) emerged as principal mechanistic pathways. Chronic exposure to microplastics from bottled water may contribute to multisystem toxicity through oxido-inflammatory mechanisms.

PMID:42667298 | DOI:10.1080/26896583.2026.2722385

Environ Geochem Health. 2026 Aug 29;48(14):561. doi: 10.1007/s10653-026-03419-x.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs), nanoplastics (NPs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can enter soils through biosolids, compost, landfill leachate, reclaimed-water irrigation, treated textiles, and industrial releases. However, whether plastic particles modify PFAS fate in terrestrial environments remains uncertain because most evidence derives from simplified laboratory conditions. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework and identified 430 records from Scopus (n = 208) and Web of Science (n = 222). After screening, environmental-domain classification, and critical reassessment, 37 original studies were included in a two-level evidence framework comprising eight core soil or soil-relevant studies and 29 complementary mechanistic studies. PFAS-MP/NP interactions depended on polymer composition, particle size and charge, PFAS chain length and functional group, solution chemistry, weathering, organic matter, mineral coatings, and biofilms. Although pristine plastics often showed substantial PFAS adsorption in aqueous systems, their affinity frequently changed after contact with soils or other environmental matrices. Transport studies did not support a universal carrier effect. Plastic particles facilitated PFAS movement under some conditions, retarded it when particle retention dominated, and had little effect when most PFAS remained dissolved. Biological responses were also context-dependent. MPs increased PFAS bioaccumulation and reproductive toxicity in earthworms, while plant and aquatic studies showed both enhanced and reduced uptake or toxicity depending on particle properties and exposure conditions. Overall, the PFAS vector effect of MPs and NPs is conditional rather than universal. Field monitoring, intact-soil experiments, environmentally conditioned particles, realistic concentrations, complete mass balances, and long-term assessments are needed to determine when plastic-mediated processes become environmentally significant.

PMID:42667455 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-026-03419-x

Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2026 Aug 29;69(1):71. doi: 10.1007/s12016-026-09193-z.

ABSTRACT

Environmental pollution has emerged as one of the biggest threats to health in the contemporary world. Pollutants modify immune responses and may induce immunotoxicity. In this review, we describe the impact of significant environmental pollutants on the innate immune system, including ozone (O₃), particulate matter (PM), diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) and cigarette smoke (CS), as well as emerging pollutants such as chemical contaminants, nanomaterials, and microplastics, with a particular focus on the regulatory mechanisms of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). ILCs, tissue-resident lymphocytes without antigen-specific receptors, have been demonstrated to be essential regulators linking environmental detection and immunological responses. Studies indicate that environmental pollutants activate ILCs and alter the immune responses by compromising the epithelial barrier and triggering the release of alarmins, including interleukin (IL)-33, IL-25, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). Among ILCs, group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are highly sensitive to pollutant-induced epithelial signals and play a critical role in type 2 inflammation. Beyond canonical alarmin signaling, accumulating evidence indicates that environmental pollutants regulate ILC2 biology thereby contributing to immune dysregulation and inflammatory diseases. A better understanding of how environmental pollutants regulate ILC2 activation, plasticity, and functional adaptation will facilitate the development of more precise preventive and therapeutic strategies for pollution-associated diseases.

PMID:42667487 | DOI:10.1007/s12016-026-09193-z

Environ Geochem Health. 2026 Aug 29;48(14):561. doi: 10.1007/s10653-026-03419-x.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs), nanoplastics (NPs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can enter soils through biosolids, compost, landfill leachate, reclaimed-water irrigation, treated textiles, and industrial releases. However, whether plastic particles modify PFAS fate in terrestrial environments remains uncertain because most evidence derives from simplified laboratory conditions. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework and identified 430 records from Scopus (n = 208) and Web of Science (n = 222). After screening, environmental-domain classification, and critical reassessment, 37 original studies were included in a two-level evidence framework comprising eight core soil or soil-relevant studies and 29 complementary mechanistic studies. PFAS-MP/NP interactions depended on polymer composition, particle size and charge, PFAS chain length and functional group, solution chemistry, weathering, organic matter, mineral coatings, and biofilms. Although pristine plastics often showed substantial PFAS adsorption in aqueous systems, their affinity frequently changed after contact with soils or other environmental matrices. Transport studies did not support a universal carrier effect. Plastic particles facilitated PFAS movement under some conditions, retarded it when particle retention dominated, and had little effect when most PFAS remained dissolved. Biological responses were also context-dependent. MPs increased PFAS bioaccumulation and reproductive toxicity in earthworms, while plant and aquatic studies showed both enhanced and reduced uptake or toxicity depending on particle properties and exposure conditions. Overall, the PFAS vector effect of MPs and NPs is conditional rather than universal. Field monitoring, intact-soil experiments, environmentally conditioned particles, realistic concentrations, complete mass balances, and long-term assessments are needed to determine when plastic-mediated processes become environmentally significant.

PMID:42667455 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-026-03419-x

Food Chem. 2026 Aug 25;527:150906. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.150906. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) contamination in beverages has emerged as a growing environmental and public health concern. In this study, Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy was employed for the rapid detection, quantification, and polymer characterization of MPs in commercially available carbonated soft drinks packaged in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and aluminium cans in Malaysia. Triplicate samples from four major beverage brands were analyzed. MPs were detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 152 ± 110 to 330 ± 404 MPs/L in canned beverages and from 79 ± 17 to 727 ± 244 MPs/L in PET-packaged beverages. Overall, PET bottles exhibited higher MP concentrations than aluminium cans. Polymer analysis identified PET, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polyurethane (PU), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in these samples. Most detected particles were smaller than 50 μm. These findings demonstrate the suitability of LDIR spectroscopy as a rapid, automated, and high-throughput approach for comprehensive MP analysis in carbonated beverages.

PMID:42667771 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.150906

Environ Res. 2026 Aug 29:125589. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2026.125589. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) pollution poses a widespread threat to freshwater biodiversity. The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), an apex predator in freshwater ecosystems, is highly sensitive to anthropogenic pressures, such as pollution and habitat alteration and may be exposed to MPs through trophic transfer from contaminated preys. This study uses the Eurasian otter as a sentinel species to investigate MPs in their spraint within its recolonization area in Central Italy, where the species is currently expanding. We aimed to 1) explore the influence of land use variables, such as urbanization and agricultural activity on MP concentration and particle composition; and 2) compare MP concentration between main rivers and their tributaries to identify potential areas of increased exposure relevant to otter conservation. Suspected MPs were detected in 92.6% of the sampling stations, with a mean concentration of 14.91 suspected MPs g^-1 of fecal dry weight. Blue and black fibers were dominant, while polystyrene and polyethylene were the most frequently identified polymers. Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs) indicated that higher suspected MP concentrations were associated with greater urban influence, and was higher in tributaries compared to main rivers, suggesting that smaller watercourses, which are often used by otters for nursery and feeding, may represent areas of increased MP of exposure for otters. Our results support the potential use of the Eurasian otter as a sentinel species for biomonitoring freshwater plastic pollution at the catchment scale. The occurrence of potentially hazardous polymers highlights the need for further ecotoxicological studies to determine whether MP exposure and associated contaminants may have implication for otter health.

PMID:42668052 | DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2026.125589

Front Public Health. 2026 Aug 26;14:1926761. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1926761. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Microplastics are heterogeneous environmental contaminants whose transport, persistence, and potential biological interactions may depend on particle morphology, size, geometry, and polymer composition. Environmental monitoring studies commonly describe particle occurrence within individual matrices, whereas experimental studies frequently use standardized particles that may not adequately represent environmentally observed configurations.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to characterize microplastic morphology, dimensional characteristics, size distribution, and polymer composition in drinking-water and estuarine datasets and to identify environmentally observed particle profiles that may inform future musculoskeletal research.

METHODS: Two publicly available environmental datasets were analyzed separately. Overall morphology was summarized across 44,221 San Francisco Bay particle records with valid classifications. For matrix-level analyses, quality-assurance samples were excluded, and sample-level morphology proportions were compared using permutational multivariate analysis of variance based on Bray-Curtis dissimilarities with 9,999 permutations. Homogeneity of multivariate dispersion was assessed using PERMDISP. Particle length and aspect ratio were analyzed using generalized estimating equations accounting for particles clustered within samples and adjusted for environmental matrix. Drinking-water records were analyzed descriptively because of heterogeneity in observational units and analytical methods.

RESULTS: In the complete archived particle inventory, fibers were the most frequently recorded morphology (49.8%, n = 22,012), followed by fragments (40.3%, n = 17,804). Among 266 environmental or biological samples retained for inferential analysis after exclusion of quality-assurance samples, sample-level morphology profiles differed significantly among matrices (PERMANOVA pseudo-F = 34.14, R2 = 0.344, p < 0.001), although multivariate dispersion also differed (PERMDISP F = 94.31, p < 0.001). In cluster-adjusted models, fibers were approximately 2.51 times longer than fragments (95% CI, 2.35-2.68) and had 24.76 times their aspect ratio (95% CI, 22.70-27.01).

CONCLUSION: Environmental microplastics occurred as heterogeneous combinations of fibers, fragments, particle sizes, and polymer categories. These environmentally observed combinations of morphology, dimensions, and material identity may provide empirically grounded parameters for selecting more representative particles in future cartilage-, synovium-, and bone-related experimental studies. However, this study does not measure human intake, internal exposure, tissue accumulation, biological responses, or musculoskeletal outcomes and therefore does not establish toxicological risk, clinical association, or causality.

PMID:42666570 | PMC:PMC13523142 | DOI:10.3389/fpubh.2026.1926761

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 29:129069. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129069. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The release of microplastics (MPs) and additives during plastic aging poses potential ecological risks, but the mechanistic links between these release processes and polymer degradation remain unclear. In this study, polyethylene (PE), polylactic acid/polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PLA/PBAT), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were subjected to ultraviolet (UV) aging to systematically investigate the evolution of molecular structure, surface morphology, and mechanical properties. The release of MPs (10-500 μm) and phthalate esters (PAEs) was subsequently quantified by laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), respectively. Results revealed a general degradation pathway of chemical oxidation-structural reconstruction-mechanical failure. Photoaging-induced structural weakening, surface hardening, and material embrittlement not only promoted the generation and detachment of MPs but also facilitated PAE migration and release by increasing diffusion pathways and exposing the internal polymer matrix. The release behaviors of MPs and PAEs exhibited distinct patterns: MP release primarily resulted from matrix fragmentation and followed a power-law model (R² > 0.99), whereas PAE release was governed by diffusion from a finite internal reservoir and was well described by a first-order kinetic model (R² > 0.97). The three plastics showed different release preferences. PLA/PBAT and PE exhibited higher risks of MP release, while PVC presented a more prominent risk of PAE release.

PMID:42668133 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129069

Appl Environ Microbiol. 2026 Aug 28:e0102526. doi: 10.1128/aem.01025-26. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics are increasingly detected in water and food-associated environments, yet how particle morphology influences microbial persistence during inactivation remains poorly understood. This study aims to develop polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastic particles with distinct morphologies and controlled size ranges, and to evaluate how particle morphology influences bacterial attachment and survival during thermal and ultraviolet-C (UVC) inactivation in aqueous systems. First, we developed a PVC microplastic model system with distinct morphologies and controlled size fractions. Original PVC particles were relatively smooth and rounded, whereas irregular particles were generated by compounding, pelletizing, and cryogenically grinding the same PVC material, followed by sieving into defined size ranges. Second, using this model system, we evaluated how PVC particle morphology affected bacterial attachment and survival during thermal and UVC inactivation in aqueous systems. Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria innocua were used as model gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Confocal microscopy showed attachment of E. coli to both particle types, with stronger association on ground PVC particles. In the presence of PVC particles, thermal log reductions decreased to approximately 4.0-5.1 log CFUs/mL, compared with about 5.9 log CFU/mL in microplastic-free controls, while UVC log reductions decreased to about 3.9-4.6 log CFU/mL, compared with about 5.2-6.0 log CFU/mL in microplastic-free controls. Ground PVC provided greater protection during thermal treatment, whereas both particle types similarly reduced UVC inactivation. These findings show that PVC microplastics can interfere with microbial control processes and highlight particle morphology as an important factor influencing bacterial survival in aqueous environments.IMPORTANCEMicroplastics are increasingly present in water and food-related environments, but their effects on microbial control processes remain poorly understood. This study demonstrates that PVC microplastics can reduce the effectiveness of both thermal and UVC inactivation of foodborne pathogens in aqueous systems. By developing PVC particles with distinct and defined morphologies, we further demonstrate that particle shape and surface characteristics influence bacterial attachment and survival, particularly during thermal treatment. These findings provide new mechanistic insight into how microplastics may alter bacterial persistence under disinfection or food-processing conditions. This work highlights microplastic morphology as a previously underappreciated factor affecting microbial inactivation and establishes a useful PVC microplastic model system for future studies on microplastic-microbe interactions in environmental and food-associated settings.

PMID:42663478 | DOI:10.1128/aem.01025-26

Environ Monit Assess. 2026 Aug 29;198(9):999. doi: 10.1007/s10661-026-15850-9.

ABSTRACT

The convergence of microplastic (MP) pollution and the routine application of synthetic pyrethroids presents a complex, synergistic threat to global aquaculture. While the capacity of MPs to vector environmental contaminants is widely recognized, their specific role in altering the toxicokinetics of highly lipophilic and neurotoxic pyrethroids remains a critical regulatory and ecotoxicological blind spot. This critical review systematically evaluates the accelerating role of MPs as vectors for pyrethroids within aquaculture ecosystems. We synthesize the physicochemical mechanisms governing sorption-desorption dynamics, highlighting how polymer crystallinity, weathering, and shifting aquatic parameters dictate vector efficiency. By examining tissue-specific bioaccumulation, the review challenges the conventional "Trojan Horse" paradigm, revealing significant gaps in commercially relevant in vitro digestion models and emphasizing the vulnerability of benthic and whole-consumed species. Furthermore, we dissect the distinct hydrodynamic and trophic transfer pathways across recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), open-sea cages, and semi-intensive ponds. The review critically addresses the compounded toxicological implications ranging from neuro-stress to compromised immunity and their direct economic consequences on farm performance. Finally, we highlight major regulatory gaps in current Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and propose future mitigation strategies, including targeted green pharmacology and advanced filtration technologies, calling for a holistic paradigm shift in aquaculture risk assessment.

PMID:42665736 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-026-15850-9

Environ Geochem Health. 2026 Aug 28;48(14):560. doi: 10.1007/s10653-026-03458-4.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics are widely detected in Chinese surface waters, posing potential threats to ecosystems and human health. We conducted a systematic review of literature published from January 2014 to March 2026 based on predefined search and eligibility criteria, and integrated data from 40 eligible studies.Using the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI), the Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD), and health risk models (Target Hazard Quotient, THQ; Cancer Risk, CR), we analyzed the spatial distribution, morphology, and multi-dimensional risks of microplastics. Results showed pronounced spatial heterogeneity, with hotspots in northwestern inland rivers, northern industrialized basins, and the southeastern coast. Fibers dominated (47.6-59.5%), particles < 1 mm accounted for 62.8%, and polyethylene (PE, 25.5%) and polypropylene (PP, 23.4%) were predominant. PLI indicated 62.5% of basins had low pollution and 5% heavy pollution; PERI showed low ecological risk in 67.6% of basins, but 5.9% exhibited extremely high risk due to PVC toxicity. The SSD-derived PNEC was 129.1 n L^-1. Human health risk assessment estimated THQ = 0.019 and CR = 1.32×10^-5 under the assumed exposure scenarios. Overall, microplastic contamination and associated risks varied among regions, with hotspots requiring further monitoring. These findings provide useful information for ecological risk assessment and future management strategies.

PMID:42663711 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-026-03458-4

Drug Chem Toxicol. 2026 Aug 28:1-26. doi: 10.1080/01480545.2026.2717208. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) act as dynamic environmental vectors across the soil-water continuum, allowing them to enter organisms through direct ingestion, leading to potential tissue accumulation. Under specific exposure conditions, these vectors can undergo trophic transfer through food chains, contributing to combined toxicological risks. This paper reviews how the adsorption and co-transport behaviors of chemical pollutants by MPs and NPs are collectively regulated by the intrinsic physicochemical properties of the material and environmental weathering processes. The formation of the "plastisphere" on the surface of these particles provides a physical substrate that selectively enriches microbial communities and mobile genetic elements (MGEs). Under specific combined chemical stresses, this localized enrichment can act as a precursor to facilitate the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), although the actual occurrence of HGT remains highly context-dependent. Additionally, MPs and NPs exacerbate their ecotoxicological impacts by operating via an "adsorption-ingestion-release" pathway within host gastrointestinal tracts, significantly influencing the dynamic bioavailability and combined toxicity (e.g., synergistic, antagonistic, or additive) of co-existing pollutants across multiple trophic levels. Given the numerous unresolved scientific challenges-such as the lack of standardized quantification methodologies for complex soil matrices and the poorly understood biomagnification of composite pollutant mixtures-there is a pressing need to promote further research through AI-driven coupled kinetic models and a comprehensive "One Health" risk assessment paradigm.

PMID:42663501 | DOI:10.1080/01480545.2026.2717208

Talanta. 2026 Aug 25;312(Pt B):130517. doi: 10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130517. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals are widespread environmental contaminants. Their co-exposure may pose greater risks to plants than either pollutant alone. Since their toxicity depends on tissue-specific distribution, precise imaging of both in plant tissues is critical for uncovering toxicity mechanisms. In this study, we used LA-ICP-MS imaging to investigate the effects of irregular polyethylene terephthalate (PET) MPs of ca. 200 nm labeled by europium chelate, spherical polystyrene (PS) MPs and cadmium (Cd), on cucumber seedlings. Following hydroponic exposure to 20 mg/L MPs, or in combination with 0.05 or 0.5 mg/L Cd for 5 days, imaging revealed preferential accumulation of MPs at leaf margins, while Cd distributed uniformly along vascular bundles. High-Cd levels promoted microplastic translocation to shoots, with an 87% increase for PS and 47% for PET, whereas co-exposure reduced net Cd accumulation in leaves by 71-76%. Irregular PET exhibited greater tissue accumulation and stronger synergism with Cd than spherical PS. All treatments decreased leaf area and chlorophyll content, with the greatest reductions under co-exposure: leaf area declined by 40% and chlorophyll content by 55%, while root length and stem height remained unchanged. Metabolomics identified persistent glutathione depletion as the primary oxidative stress indicator, accompanied by treatment-specific reprogramming of carbon metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and phenylpropanoid pathways. These findings demonstrated that microplastic morphology is a critical determinant of phytotoxicity and microplastic-metal synergism, with direct implications for environmental risk assessment of realistic plastic contaminants in food crop systems.

PMID:42664648 | DOI:10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130517

Mutagenesis. 2026 Aug 28:geag031. doi: 10.1093/mutage/geag031. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Human exposure scenarios to emerging pollutants, micro- and nanoplastics are increasing. However, in vivo reports defining their acute genotoxic hazard, particularly under combined (microplastics (MPs) + nanoplastics (NPs)) exposure are limited. Polystyrene (PS) MPs and NPs are among the most prevalent and are being detected in food and environmental matrices. Hence, we investigated the acute genotoxic effects of PS MPs, NPs, and MPs+NPs treatment following oral administration at 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg body weight doses in female Wistar rats. Particle characterization confirmed polymer integrity and size distribution, with hydrodynamic diameters of 1422 nm for MPs and 112.3 nm for NPs in Milli-Q water. A dose-dependent hepatic and renal injury was observed in histopathological studies and the effect was more prominent at the 1000 mg/kg dose in rats treated with PS MPs+NPs. Comet assay results showed significant DNA damage in peripheral blood leukocytes, bone marrow, liver, and kidney cells with PS NPs and MPs+NPs compared with PS MPs treatment alone. Notably, PS MPs+NPs exposure induced DNA damage even at the lowest dose (10 mg/kg) tested. Cell cycle analysis in rats treated with PS MPs and NPs depicted arrest in G0/G1, S, and G2/M phases which was consistent with activation of DNA damage checkpoints. A dose dependent elevation in Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels levels and depletion of reduced glutathione in plasma samples of rats indicate disruption of redox homeostasis. Overall, the findings of this study provide invaluable insights on PS plastic particles in vivo effects after acute oral exposure indicating oxidative stress mediated DNA damage, cell cycle perturbation, and tissue injury. The overall toxicity trend followed the order MPs+NPs > NPs > MPs, suggesting enhanced toxicity following combined exposure and highlighting the need for long-term toxicity studies of MPs+NPs mixtures to inform regulatory risk assessment.

PMID:42664242 | DOI:10.1093/mutage/geag031

Mar Pollut Bull. 2026 Aug 28;233(Pt 2):120304. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120304. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution is an emerging concern in East African coastal systems, yet the region remains underrepresented in global assessments. This paper synthesises findings from the MICROMARINE project and other regional studies to evaluate (i) environmental occurrence, (ii) biotic interactions, and (iii) ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics along the Kenyan and Tanzanian coasts into a narrative review. Microplastics are consistently detected in surface waters, sediments, and biota, with spatial variability often driven by urbanisation, riverine inputs, and local hydrodynamics. Fibers and fragments dominate across environmental compartments, although a substantial proportion of fibers may be natural or semi-synthetic, highlighting the importance of polymer identification. Despite widespread occurrence, current evidence suggests that organismal burdens in fish and bivalves do not consistently correlate with environmental concentrations, although this relationship remains uncertain given limited paired studies and species coverage, indicating that ingestion is influenced by feeding behaviour and exposure pathways rather than ambient levels alone. Regional experimental studies (derived largely from a freshwater teleost model) demonstrate that ingestion can cause intestinal damage, reduced growth, and altered energy allocation, providing a mechanistic basis for individual effects, but population-level impacts remain understudied. Building on these empirical studies, we identify research priorities across short-, medium-, and longer-term timescales, emphasising the need for existing knowledge to inform mitigation strategies, align regional research with global advances, and integrate plastic pollution within broader environmental concerns, namely climate change and biodiversity loss. Collectively, these findings provide an integrated regional synthesis and position East Africa as an increasingly important contributor to global microplastics research.

PMID:42664676 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120304

Mar Pollut Bull. 2026 Aug 28;233(Pt 2):120303. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120303. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) have been increasingly reported in deep-sea sediments, yet their occurrence and hydrodynamic controls in trench environments, particularly those influenced by contemporary turbidity currents, remain poorly understood. Here, MPs were extracted from surface sediments collected from the Manila Trench and analyzed together with regional sedimentary dynamics. MP abundances ranged from 133 to 193 items kg^-1, with fibers and fragments dominating the assemblages. High-density polymers (polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride) were more abundant than low-density polymers (polyethylene and polypropylene), and mean MP particle size increased significantly with water depth, suggesting a potential influence of hydrodynamic sorting. Episodic turbidity currents may facilitate the transport of MPs with different densities into the deep sea. During subsequent settling, low-density MPs may remain suspended for longer and undergo further transport by deep currents, whereas high-density MPs may settle more rapidly and be preferentially retained in the sediments. These pattern suggests that canyon-trench systems may act as potential transport pathways and depositional sinks for MPs in the deep ocean.

PMID:42664673 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120303

Water Res. 2026 Aug 21;308(Pt A):126758. doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2026.126758. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution has emerged as a major environmental concern, necessitating accurate and efficient monitoring technologies for aquatic ecosystems. While deep learning-based image analysis has shown promise for automated microplastic detection, existing methods often suffer from limited robustness, insufficient validation under realistic environmental conditions, and reduced performance in complex backgrounds. To address these challenges, this study proposes Yolov7CS, a hybrid attention-enhanced object detection framework for microplastic identification and monitoring. The proposed model integrates a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM), combining channel and spatial attention mechanisms, into the Yolov7 architecture to improve feature extraction and discrimination of diverse microplastic morphologies. A high-resolution image dataset containing 4260 images across seven particle categories was established under multiple background conditions. The dataset comprised six microplastic categories-Film, Fiber, Foam, Fragment, Pellet, and Tire-and one non-microplastic interference category, Road Salt. In addition, a real-world water circulation platform was developed to evaluate model performance under practical monitoring scenarios involving water interference, illumination variation, and background complexity. Among the evaluated models, Yolov7CS achieved the highest overall Precision, mAP@50-95, and F1-score, while tying for the highest Recall and mAP@50. These results indicate competitive and relatively balanced performance under the evaluated conditions.

PMID:42664819 | DOI:10.1016/j.watres.2026.126758

Bioresour Technol. 2026 Aug 28:135744. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135744. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Despite being marketed as environmentally benign alternatives for conventional synthetic polymers, biodegradable plastics inevitably generate large amounts of microplastics, posing currently overlooked yet potentially significant environmental risks. This study selected polylactic acid microplastics (PLA-MPs) as model biodegradable microplastics to investigate their effects on nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from a mainstream biological nitrogen removal (BNR) system. Long-term exposure to PLA-MPs at environmentally relevant level (0.5 mg/L) increased the N₂O emission factor by 28.9%, and inhibited maximum nitrification and denitrification activities by 13.4%-20.9% and 4.9%-16.7%, respectively, while the nitrate reduction rate increased by 9.9%. Under elevated stress (5 mg/L), the N₂O emissions increased by 32.4%, but the extent of maximum activity inhibition was comparable to that at 0.5 mg/L. Isotopic analysis revealed that PLA-MPs promoted the NH₂OH oxidation pathway and consequently enhanced the N₂O-producing capacity of nitrifiers, while nitrite accumulation during nitrification remained largely unaffected. During denitrification, however, PLA-MPs disrupted the balance of nitrogen oxide reduction steps, leading to elevated accumulation of both nitrite and N₂O. PLA‑MPs altered the composition and structure of extracellular polymeric substances, which was accompanied by increased sludge particle size and hydrophobicity. Concurrently, shifts in the relative abundances of key microorganisms and enzyme-encoding genes involved in electron transfer, electron consumption, and metal transmembrane transport were observed. Together, these changes in sludge properties and microbial community likely explained the elevated N₂O emissions under PLA-MP exposure, providing new insights into the long-term impacts of biodegradable microplastics on engineered wastewater systems.

PMID:42665105 | DOI:10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135744

Environ Monit Assess. 2026 Aug 28;198(9):997. doi: 10.1007/s10661-026-15866-1.

ABSTRACT

Sewage sludge (SeS) produced in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is increasingly recognized as a significant reservoir for microplastics (MPs). Despite this, comprehensive data on MP occurrence in advanced institutional treatment systems, particularly in developing countries, remain limited. This study provides a quantitative evaluation of MPs in SeS from an academic institution in India operating a hybrid Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor-Zero Liquid Discharge (MBBR-ZLD) system. Samples were collected fortnightly over a seven-month period (January-July) and analyzed using wet peroxide oxidation, density separation, stereomicroscopy, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, SEM-EDX, and Nile Red fluorescence microscopy. Microplastics were detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 120 to 1145 particles per kilogram dry weight (n/kg dw). Particle sizes ranged from 7.02 to 4592 µm, with the 500-1000 µm size fraction being the most prevalent. Fibres dominated the morphology (43.3%), followed by fragments (39.5%) and films (11.5%). Polymer characterization identified eight types, with Nylon-PA6 (37.7%) and LDPE (16.0%) as the most abundant. Method validation using co-spiked reference materials yielded an overall recovery efficiency of 81.66 ± 2.51%, though recovery varied depending on particle type and size. Accordingly, correction factors were applied to improve data accuracy. A strong positive Spearman rank correlation was observed between campus occupancy and monthly mean MP concentration (ρ = 0.756, p = 0.049), suggesting that human activity significantly influences MP loading. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the temporal relationships between academic occupancy patterns and MP concentrations in SeS, along with their polymer profiles, in an Indian institutional MBBR-ZLD system. These findings highlight the role of institutional usage patterns in MP accumulation within MBBR-ZLD systems.

PMID:42665675 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-026-15866-1

ILIVER. 2026 Jul 13;5(3):100254. doi: 10.1016/j.iliver.2026.100254. eCollection 2026 Sep.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Microplastics (MPs) are widespread environmental pollutants, and there is growing evidence that they have potential impacts on human health. However, the role of particle morphology in mediating biological responses, particularly in liver disease, is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to quantify the morphological distribution of MPs in aquatic environments and to assess their potential biological relevance based on experimental evidence.

METHODS: A secondary analysis was conducted using a publicly available dataset of 19,874 MPs collected from surface waters of San Francisco Bay (2015-2020). Morphological, size, color, and spatial data were analyzed using R (v4.3.1). Temporal trends, spatial autocorrelation, and size-geometry relationships were assessed.

RESULTS: Fibers (49.8%) and fragments (40.3%) dominated the dataset. A significant temporal increase in fiber abundance was observed between 2015 and 2018 (p = 0.012). These fibers had extreme aspect ratios (> 50 : 1), and spatial clustering was identified in the Central Bay (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: These results suggest that microplastic morphology, particularly high-aspect-ratio fibers and irregular fragments, is a critical parameter in assessing environmental exposure and provides biological plausibility for oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways relevant to liver disease pathogenesis.

PMID:42662643 | PMC:PMC13520088 | DOI:10.1016/j.iliver.2026.100254

J Environ Qual. 2026 Sep-Oct;55(5):e70250. doi: 10.1002/jeq2.70250.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution is an emerging global concern, with fibrous microplastics (FMPs) representing a dominant class that poses a particular danger due to their persistence and high aspect ratios. FMPs originate from both industrial and consumer activities, with wastewater treatment plants acting as a major transmission pathway. Despite extensive research on microplastics, a morphology-focused understanding of FMP sources, transport pathways, environmental fate, and biological impacts has remained limited. The present study integrates a systematic literature synthesis with a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer to identify global research hotspots and trends on FMPs. Bibliometric analysis shows that 80% of publications have been led by China, the United States, and European countries in the past 5 years. Thematic clustering reveals textiles, polyester fibers, and wastewater systems as dominant research nodes. Global studies reported a 6.3-fold increase in the production of synthetic microfibers between 1980 and 2015, with the laundering of textiles projected to release over 22 million tonnes of microplastic fibers between 2015 and 2050. Across both industrial and municipal wastewater treatment systems, FMPs consistently emerge as the dominant morphology, accounting for 50%-92% of detected microplastics in treated effluents. This review also identifies a conserved tri-modal impact pattern of FMP exposure, mechanical disruption, oxidative inflammatory activation, and chemical vectoring, highlighting fiber morphology as a critical determinant of ecological and physiological vulnerability across biodiversity. In conclusion, this comprehensive review aims to contribute to the existing scholarship of FMPs and urges the development of strategies, sustainable textile innovations, and targeted research on FMPs and advanced removal technologies to limit their environmental footprint.

PMID:42665786 | DOI:10.1002/jeq2.70250

Chem Commun (Camb). 2026 Aug 28. doi: 10.1039/d6cc02525k. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Spent enzyme immobilisation resins constitute microplastic waste. Here, commercially available C₂-amine methacrylate beads are converted into reusable supports through furan decoration and a thermally cleavable Diels-Alder linker bearing an NHS ester. The enzyme-linker assembly is removed by retro-Diels-Alder reaction, regenerating the support over multiple cycles.

PMID:42663099 | PMC:PMC13523047 | DOI:10.1039/d6cc02525k

Life (Basel). 2026 Jul 30;16(8):1261. doi: 10.3390/life16081261.

ABSTRACT

CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-based genome engineering is reshaping how environmental contamination can be interrogated and remediated, offering a level of programmability and specificity that conventional physicochemical workflows seldom match. Microplastics polymer fragments below 5 mm that now pervade virtually every ecosystem are especially difficult to monitor and remove because of their chemical heterogeneity, sub-millimeter size, and capacity to adsorb co-pollutants. This review examines how the molecular logic of CRISPR-Cas systems is being repurposed for two complementary goals: sensitive analytical detection and microbially driven degradation of plastic particles. We first outline the biochemistry of Cas-mediated cis- and trans-cleavage that underpins isothermal, amplification-free biosensing, and then survey direct strategies, in which polymer-binding DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) aptamers are coupled to Cas12a (CRISPR-associated protein 12a), alongside indirect strategies that read out the molecular stress signatures provoked by microplastic exposure in sentinel organisms and plastisphere communities. On the remediation side, we discuss how targeted editing, CRISPR interference, and rationally assembled microbial consortia enhance enzymatic depolymerization and redirect carbon flux toward valuable bioproducts. By integrating detection and remediation within a single conceptual framework, we identify the principal bottlenecks, aptamer selectivity in complex matrices, reagent stability under field conditions, and host metabolic burden, and outline research priorities for translating these tools from proof of concept toward deployable environmental technologies.

PMID:42652949 | PMC:PMC13514379 | DOI:10.3390/life16081261

Int J Mol Sci. 2026 Aug 7;27(16):7091. doi: 10.3390/ijms27167091.

ABSTRACT

Plastic contamination (plastamination) is one of the main challenges of the 21st century. Microplastics (MPs, 5 mm-1 µm) and nanoplastics (NPs, <1 µm) are mainly produced from the environmental degradation of plastic waste and enter the food chain, bypass biological barriers, and bioaccumulate in tissues where they exert toxic/inflammatory effects. In the male reproductive system, MP/NPs can cross the blood-testis barrier, impair spermatogenesis, and affect semen quality parameters. While biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA) may represent an ecofriendly alternative to carbon fossil polymers, their real effects in reproduction have been poorly investigated. In the present manuscript, the effects of increasing doses of rhodamine B-loaded PLA-NPs (170 ± 20 nm mean size) on the physiology of frozen-thawed bovine sperm were investigated using a computer-assisted sperm analyzer (CASA) and flow cytometry. Sperm kinetics revealed a significant effect of PLA-NPs on progressive motility at 60 min, with higher values at 200 and 300 µg/mL doses (p < 0.05 vs. control). Flow cytometry showed that PLA-NP exposure did not alter acrosomal integrity (PNA488+); however, the proportion of spermatozoa showing high mitochondrial potential (MitoDR+) was significantly reduced compared to controls at a 300 µg/mL PLA-NP dose after 120 min of incubation. The proportion of spermatozoa metabolically active (MitoDR+) with contextual membrane destabilization (M540+) was significantly lower in samples with 200 and 300 µg/mL PLA, independently of the incubation time. Finally, immunofluorescence analysis revealed the internalization of PLA-NPs within spermatozoa at the longest exposure time. In conclusion, PLA-NPs are internalized in spermatozoa, with specific localization in mitochondria, and slightly affect progressive motility mainly by mitochondrial interference and plasma membrane destabilization. Despite limited effects on post-thaw bull sperm motility even at high doses, plastamination warrants consideration, and further studies on the biological effects of biodegradable plastics are recommended to preserve sperm physiology.

PMID:42653096 | PMC:PMC13512978 | DOI:10.3390/ijms27167091

Life (Basel). 2026 Aug 11;16(8):1315. doi: 10.3390/life16081315.

ABSTRACT

Background/Objectives: Microplastics (MPs) are emerging environmental contaminants with potential implications for human health. Experimental studies suggest that MPs accumulate in the liver and promote inflammatory and fibrotic changes, but evidence from human tissues remains limited. This study investigated the presence of suspected MP-like particles in post-mortem human liver tissue and their associations with clinical, biochemical, hematological and histopathological parameters. Methods: Post-mortem liver tissue samples were collected from 55 adults. Suspected MP-like particles were extracted using hydrogen peroxide digestion, filtration, Nile Red staining and image-based quantification. Histopathological evaluation assessed inflammation, fibrosis, necrosis and fatty liver degeneration. Polarized light microscopy was used as a supportive morphological assessment method. Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U tests, Fisher's exact tests and Spearman correlation analysis. Results: Detectable hepatic suspected MP-like particles were identified in 9 of 55 individuals (16.4%). Individuals with detectable suspected MP-like particles had significantly lower alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and leukocyte counts. The hepatic suspected MP-like particle burden showed weak positive correlation with liver fibrosis and inflammation and weak inverse correlation with ALT levels and leukocyte count. Fisher's exact test showed that liver fibrosis and liver inflammation were significantly associated with detectable hepatic suspected MP-like particles, with higher unadjusted odds observed in the corresponding 2 × 2 contingency tables. No statistically significant associations were found for liver necrosis or fatty liver degeneration. Conclusions: Detectable suspected MP-like particles were identified in post-mortem human liver tissues and were more closely associated with fibrotic and inflammatory histopathological changes than with routine biochemical abnormalities. Larger studies using standardized detection methods are needed to confirm these results.

PMID:42653003 | PMC:PMC13514284 | DOI:10.3390/life16081315

Molecules. 2026 Aug 17;31(16):2873. doi: 10.3390/molecules31162873.

ABSTRACT

One of the main sources of secondary microplastics (MPs) in the marine environment is single-use plastic products. However, research on their adsorption capabilities is still limited. In this study, we used a representative set of well-characterized micro-sized fragments, films, and foam to evaluate differences in copper(II) adsorption via a series of batch adsorption experiments. We aimed to understand how the adsorption capacity of Cu(II) differs between a set of secondary MPs in model seawater. We examined the effect of particle size, surface hydrophobicity, and salinity as factors influencing adsorption. The highest adsorption capacity was observed for foam fragments made from a clamshell PS food container followed by a food tray made from PP (591 ± 168 and 353 ± 45 µg/g of MP, respectively). The presence of a higher salinity environment had no negative effect on the adsorption capacity, except that of spherical PS. Our results suggest that the chosen MPs (hard fragments and films) do not have a high ability for Cu(II) adsorption, except for expanded PS and PP films. This study also highlights the difficulties associated with using irregular pieces of post-consumer plastic in model experiments.

PMID:42653954 | PMC:PMC13515476 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31162873

Molecules. 2026 Aug 11;31(16):2789. doi: 10.3390/molecules31162789.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics have emerged as one of the most widespread and significant environmental pollutants, occurring in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, the atmosphere, food, and living organisms. Given the rapid expansion of research in this field, a comprehensive synthesis of the current state of knowledge is warranted. The aim of this study was to map the available literature on microplastics, with particular emphasis on advanced identification and characterisation techniques, environmental transport and transformation processes, life cycle assessment, and remediation strategies. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines using publications retrieved from the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The analysis demonstrated substantial advances in analytical methodologies, particularly spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, enabling the accurate characterisation of micro- and nanoplastic particles. It also highlighted the complex mechanisms governing the transport and transformation of microplastics across environmental compartments, as well as their important role as vectors of chemical contaminants. From a systems perspective, life cycle assessment of plastics was identified as an essential tool for evaluating their environmental impacts. Current mitigation approaches, including filtration technologies, wastewater treatment processes, and biological remediation strategies, were also reviewed, along with their limitations and potential for future development. This review identifies the lack of standardised analytical methodologies and the limited capability for nanoplastics detection as two major challenges hindering the global harmonisation of microplastics research. The findings emphasise the need for further interdisciplinary studies and the implementation of integrated strategies encompassing the entire life cycle of plastics to effectively reduce microplastics emissions and mitigate their environmental impacts.

PMID:42653872 | PMC:PMC13515896 | DOI:10.3390/molecules31162789

Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2026 Jul 30;48(8):780. doi: 10.3390/cimb48080780.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) contamination in soils has raised widespread concern, yet the extent to which soil matrices regulate MP toxicity remains insufficiently characterized. In this study, the acute and subchronic toxicity of polystyrene (PS) to the earthworm (Eisenia fetida) was analyzed in artificial soil and three types of natural soils (lou soil, black soil and latosol soil). The 28 d LC₅₀ (50% lethal concentration) of PS in artificial soil was 130.86 g kg^-1, whereas it decreased to 39.71 and 39.23 g kg^-1 in lou and latosol soil, respectively, and increased to 175.13 g kg^-1 in black soil, indicating that soil physicochemical properties may modulate MP toxic potency. Across all soil types, PS exposure triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in earthworms, which in turn activated antioxidant and detoxification enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase) and ultimately led to lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. Assessment via the integrated biomarker response index suggested divergent PS toxicity across soils, indicating inconsistencies between artificial soil and natural soils. Notably, this study was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions using a single polymer type, particle size, and test organism, and therefore the observed soil-dependent toxicity patterns may not be directly extrapolated to other MP types, sizes, or soil biota. Overall, our study suggested that the toxicity data derived from artificial soil cannot fully represent the real effects in natural soils, providing valuable insights for elucidating the realistic toxicity of MPs.

PMID:42651779 | PMC:PMC13511216 | DOI:10.3390/cimb48080780

Theriogenology. 2026 Aug 25;266:118155. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2026.118155. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Ruminants are among the livestock most at risk of microplastics (MPs) exposure due to the ingestion of contaminated forage, particularly with polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Yet, despite this high risk, the potential effects of microplastics on reproductive function in these species remain largely unknown. Here, we studied how environmentally relevant PET-MPs impact placental functionality and cellular responses in an in vitro sheep model. First, virgin PET was mechanically processed through progressive milling and sieving to obtain two fractions of 20-50 μm or <20 μm, which were characterised in size, distribution, and crystal structure; then ovine term placental cells were exposed to both sizes of PET-MPs for 24-48 h. MTT revealed that the smaller PET-MPs reduced cell viability even at low concentrations (1 μg/mL), whereas the larger fraction induced cytotoxicity only at 50 μg/mL. Placental cells diminished migratory capacity in the presence of smaller PET-MPs. Oxidative stress assessment further demonstrated a reduced ability to metabolize H₂O₂, along with a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, indicating compromised mitochondrial function; additionally, apoptosis was also slightly increased following exposure to the <20 μm PETs. Overall, our findings show that PET-MPs, particularly those below 20 μm, impair multiple functional and metabolic endpoints in ovine term placental cells, highlighting the risk to reproductive health in ruminants chronically exposed to microplastic-contaminated feed.

PMID:42660025 | DOI:10.1016/j.theriogenology.2026.118155

Vet Sci. 2026 Jul 28;13(8):748. doi: 10.3390/vetsci13080748.

ABSTRACT

Background: Microplastics (MPs) and cadmium (Cd) are widespread environmental pollutants posing significant health risks, but their combined hepatotoxic effects and underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods: Using in vivo and in vitro co-exposure models, we systematically investigated the impact of MPs on Cd-induced hepatotoxicity. The study assessed hepatic injury, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses through transcriptomic analysis, histopathological examination, immunofluorescence, and quantitative real-time PCR. Pharmacological inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress with 4-phenylbutyric acid and selective blockade of IRE1α with MKC3946 were employed to dissect the signaling pathway. Results: Co-exposure to MPs and Cd significantly aggravated Cd-induced hepatic pathological damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Transcriptomic profiling revealed marked activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and upregulation of pyroptosis-associated genes. Mechanistically, endoplasmic reticulum stress triggered pyroptosis via the IRE1α/TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling axis. Notably, inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress with 4-phenylbutyric acid, or selective blockade of IRE1α with MKC3946, effectively attenuated TXNIP/NLRP3 activation and the downstream pyroptotic response. Conclusions: MPs intensify Cd-induced hepatotoxicity by activating the IRE1α/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway, leading to endoplasmic reticulum stress-driven pyroptosis. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for understanding the combined toxicity of microplastics and heavy metals, with important implications for environmental health risk assessment in animals and humans.

PMID:42655769 | PMC:PMC13517408 | DOI:10.3390/vetsci13080748

Vet Sci. 2026 Jul 28;13(8):745. doi: 10.3390/vetsci13080745.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) can adsorb and transport heavy metals, but their influence on cadmium (Cd)-induced hepatotoxicity in mammals remains unclear. Forty-eight male Kunming mice were assigned to control, Cd, MP, and Cd + MP groups and exposed by oral gavage for 42 days. Growth performance, liver injury, oxidative stress, and inflammation were assessed, and transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were integrated with qPCR, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, and ATP measurements. Compared with Cd alone, combined exposure resulted in greater reductions in body weight gain, the liver index, and antioxidant enzyme activities, together with more severe hepatic lesions and higher levels of liver injury markers and inflammatory cytokines. Co-exposure also induced broader transcriptional and metabolic disturbances than Cd alone. Integrated omics analyses converged on the dysregulation of AMPK-FOXO signaling and related energy metabolic processes. qPCR confirmed more pronounced alterations in pathway-related genes after co-exposure, while reductions in mtDNA copy number and ATP content indicated aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired energy metabolism. Collectively, these results demonstrate that MPs exacerbate Cd-induced liver injury and suggest that disruption of AMPK-FOXO-associated energy metabolism is a key molecular feature underlying the enhanced hepatotoxicity observed under combined exposure.

PMID:42655765 | PMC:PMC13517660 | DOI:10.3390/vetsci13080745

Cureus. 2026 Jul 26;18(7):e113427. doi: 10.7759/cureus.113427. eCollection 2026 Jul.

ABSTRACT

Clear aligner therapy depends on polymeric materials that differ in stiffness, elasticity, force retention, surface stability, optical behavior, and biological safety. Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyurethane (PU), copolyesters, multilayer polymers, polypropylene/polyethylene (PP/PE)-based materials, and three-dimensional (3D)-printed resins are increasingly used, but their comparative performance remains heterogeneous. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the mechanical performance, aging behavior, cytotoxicity, chemical release, microplastic release, and surface stability of orthodontic clear aligner materials. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Embase, and ScienceDirect were searched for English-language full-text studies published from January 2000 through June 23, 2026. Eligible studies evaluated material-specific mechanical, optical, biological, chemical, surface, or clinically relevant outcomes. Findings were synthesized narratively, and exploratory random-effects quantitative syntheses were conducted when numerical outcomes were sufficiently compatible. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Quality Assessment Tool for In Vitro Studies (QUIN) for the 22 laboratory investigations and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist for quasi-experimental studies for the prospective clinical/laboratory investigation. The review was not prospectively registered. Twenty-three studies were included, of which 22 were predominantly in vitro laboratory investigations. PETG, TPU, polyurethane, copolyesters, multilayer polymers, PP/PE-based materials, and direct 3D-printed resins showed substantial variation in modulus, flexural performance, stress relaxation, force decay, aging response, and surface roughness. QUIN assessment classified 18 in-vitro studies as having a medium risk of bias and four as having a high risk of bias; no study met the threshold for low risk of bias. Frequent methodological limitations included absent sample-size calculations, incomplete sampling descriptions, limited reporting of randomization and blinding, and inadequate reporting of operator or assessor calibration. Cytotoxicity findings were generally favorable under standard laboratory conditions, although reduced cell viability occurred with selected materials, concentrated extracts, or prolonged exposure. Evidence regarding BPA was limited, while other chemical leachables and microplastic release remained emerging concerns. Several quantitative outcomes showed high or extreme heterogeneity. Current evidence does not establish a universally superior clear aligner material. Material behavior and safety appear dependent on polymer composition, manufacturing method, thickness, post-processing, aging, and testing conditions. Because the evidence was predominantly laboratory-based, frequently at medium or high risk of bias, and methodologically heterogeneous, pooled estimates should not be translated directly into clinical material-selection or wear-schedule recommendations. Standardized laboratory methods and prospective clinical validation are required.

PMID:42656921 | PMC:PMC13507693 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.113427

Antioxidants (Basel). 2026 Aug 14;15(8):1016. doi: 10.3390/antiox15081016.

ABSTRACT

Honey bee colonies play a vital role in ecosystem stability and global food security. Together with bumble bees and other wild bee species, they form a diverse pollinator community that is particularly vulnerable to environmental pollution. Among stressors, environmental xenobiotics including heavy metals, metalloids, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and emerging contaminants such as microplastics pose a growing concern due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential and capacity to trigger oxidative stress and interact with pathogens, nutritional stress and climate-related extremes. The antioxidant defense system, encompassing enzymatic components (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-dependent enzymes and glutathione-S-transferase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants, represents a key protective mechanism, and its disruption leads to redox imbalance, immunosuppression, and behavioral alterations that can reduce honey bee colony vitality. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, exposure pathways and toxicological effects of major environmental xenobiotics on the antioxidant defense systems of honey bees, with particular emphasis on oxidative-stress biomarkers for early detection of sublethal impairment in field and experimental settings. Where available, evidence from bumble bees and other wild bees is considered to place findings in a broader pollinator-health context and to highlight taxa-specific sensitivities. Work should now concentrate on a validated core panel of redox biomarkers, on chronic multi-stressor exposures that include PFAS and plastic particles, and on biomarker baselines for bumble bees and solitary bees tied to colony- or population-level endpoints.

PMID:42650280 | PMC:PMC13509840 | DOI:10.3390/antiox15081016

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 20;516:143346. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143346. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) contamination has emerged as a global food safety concern, highlighting the need to evaluate its co-occurrence with persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in processed seafood products. This study investigated the occurrence and distribution of MPs together with sixteen EPA-priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and fifteen phthalic acid esters (PAEs) in 216 open-dried fish samples collected from nine major fish-curing yards along the Indian coast. MPs were detected in all samples, with abundances ranging from 9 to 127 particles g⁻¹ (mean: 53.21 particles g⁻¹). Fragments were the predominant morphotype, and approximately 60-80% of the detected MPs were < 100 μm. Total PAH concentrations ranged from 776.16 to 2151.49 ng g⁻¹ , while total PAE concentrations ranged from 1066.94 to 2402.98 ng g⁻¹ , demonstrating widespread contamination in open-dried fish. The widespread co-occurrence of MPs, PAHs, and PAEs suggests that open-dried fish may be exposed to multiple environmental and post-harvest contamination pathways, although the exact origin of contamination was not directly investigated in the present study. These findings emphasize the need for improved hygienic processing standards and regulatory guidelines to ensure seafood safety.

PMID:42659879 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143346

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 24;516:143382. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143382. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics pose a serious threat to soil ecosystems, particularly nitrogen cycling. Among the diverse types of microplastics, polypropylene (PP) and polylactic acid (PLA) are frequently detected in agricultural soils. Artificial humic acid (A-HA), a humic-like substance derived from lignocellulosic waste, may regulate soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics, but its effects on nitrogen partitioning and microbial C-N metabolic potential under different microplastic stresses remain unclear. Here, a 90-day microcosm experiment integrating soil physicochemical analyses, dissolved organic matter characterization, bacterial community profiling, and metagenomics was conducted in PLA- and PP-contaminated soils. At day 15, 600 mg kg^-1 A-HA decreased nitrate (NO₃⁻-N) by 11.36% and 6.46% in PLA- and PP-contaminated soils, respectively, while increasing soluble organic nitrogen (SON) by 17.32% and 23.89%. A-HA also enriched Nitrospira and Steroidobacter and altered the abundance of genes associated with nitrogen transformation, assimilation, and carbon metabolism, including nrfA, GLU, gltB, and icd. Increased abundance of nrfA suggested greater dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) potential, while enrichment of NADP⁺-dependent icd indicated altered potential for 2-Oxoglutarate generation in the TCA cycle. Overall, A-HA modified nitrogen partitioning toward soluble and microbial organic pools and was associated with coordinated changes in microbial C-N metabolic potential under microplastic exposure.

PMID:42659882 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143382

Waste Manag. 2026 Aug 27;226:115825. doi: 10.1016/j.wasman.2026.115825. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive in landfill leachate and tend to be retained in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). However, the long-term effects on treatment performance of MBRs remain insufficiently understood. Herein, this study presents a 210-day laboratory experiment comparing a control MBR with two MPs-added MBRs continuously dosed with polystyrene (PS) or phenolic formaldehyde (PF) particles (150-250 µm). Results showed that MPs tended to accumulate in the sludge and settle at the reactor bottom in MBRs, with a small portion incorporated into the membrane cake layer. The final concentrations of MPs in the sludge were 63.1 ± 3.2 mg/L, and 46.4 ± 3.6 mg/L in the PS MPs, and PF MPs groups, respectively. The presence of MPs reduced the removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand in the landfill leachate, and intensified membrane fouling. Continuous exposure to MPs stimulated oxidative stress in sludge microorganisms and likely promoted elevated production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), thereby forming denser, smoother biofilms with higher organic content on the ultrafiltration membrane surface. By the end of operation, the transmembrane pressure of PS MPs and PF MPs groups were 23.34 kPa, and 33.85 kPa, respectively, which were significantly higher than the Control group (13.17 kPa). Metabolomics analysis further revealed enhancement of pyruvate, citrate cycle metabolism and increased levels of metabolites such as palmitic acid, trehalose and proline. These findings demonstrate that MPs drive metabolic shifts in microbial communities and enhance EPS secretion, leading to persistent membrane fouling in MBRs for landfill leachate treatment.

PMID:42659855 | DOI:10.1016/j.wasman.2026.115825

J Clin Med. 2026 Aug 13;15(16):6256. doi: 10.3390/jcm15166256.

ABSTRACT

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is increasingly recognized as a disorder of intrinsic dysregulation at the intersection of genetic susceptibility, host-microbial interactions, and hormonal signaling, with select environmental exposures acting as important secondary modifiers. This narrative review synthesizes mechanistic, clinical, and epidemiologic evidence on intrinsic and extrinsic contributors to HS pathogenesis. Genetic susceptibility for HS involves pathways regulating keratinocyte differentiation, epidermal stem cell function, and follicular architecture, including Notch signaling and transcriptional regulators such as SOX9 and KLF5. Microbiome alterations in both lesional and non-lesional skin suggest that early dysbiosis may contribute to follicular occlusion, epithelial disruption, and immune activation. Hormonal signaling, particularly androgen signaling, promotes follicular dysfunction and inflammation during periods of hormonal fluctuation, frequently aligning with the time of disease onset and flares. Environmental exposures vary considerably in the strength of supporting evidence: tobacco use and elevated body mass index have the most robust epidemiologic and mechanistic data, heat and humidity are increasingly recognized as disease activity modifiers, and evidence for air pollution and microplastics is growing. Collectively, these findings support a model in which HS arises from intrinsic follicular dysregulation shaped by genetic, microbial, and hormonal factors, with environmental exposures influencing but unlikely to independently initiate disease.

PMID:42652658 | PMC:PMC13513508 | DOI:10.3390/jcm15166256

Antioxidants (Basel). 2026 Jul 30;15(8):951. doi: 10.3390/antiox15080951.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging environmental pollutants due to their persistence and bodily accumulation. Recently, functional foods have received much attention for their ability to reverse or block MNP damage for therapeutic purposes and the potential risk of developing oral-gut-brain axis disorders. Among these, artichoke, spirulina algae, Opuntia ficus-indica, pterostilbene, hydroxycinnamic acids, and quinic acid are rich sources of polyphenols. These bioactive ingredients, especially when combined with probiotics and prebiotics, exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling and cellular resilience enzymes. Nrf2 activation enhances cellular resilience response, and it may preserve oral epithelial barrier (OEB), intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB), and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, while modulating oral pathogens, gut microbial dysbiosis, and neuroinflammatory processes. However, most of the available evidence supporting these mechanisms derives from in vitro and animal studies, whereas clinical evidence in humans remains limited. Perturbations of Nrf2 due to circulating MNPs may exacerbate selective susceptibility to oral, gut, and nervous system disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although these findings are biologically plausible, the causal relationships and their clinical relevance have not yet been fully established. This review discusses the role of functional foods in maintaining oral-gut-brain health through Nrf2-mediated mechanisms that may mitigate MNP-induced inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The review also examines emerging concepts in precision nutritional medicine, including individual variability in dietary responses, microbiome-related factors, and future personalized strategies for populations exposed to MNPs. Finally, current knowledge gaps, the scarcity of human studies, and the challenges in translating preclinical findings into clinical practice are highlighted, emphasizing the need for further translational and clinical research.

PMID:42650215 | PMC:PMC13509554 | DOI:10.3390/antiox15080951

Animals (Basel). 2026 Aug 13;16(16):2524. doi: 10.3390/ani16162524.

ABSTRACT

In this study, we aimed to investigate the occurrence, characteristics and temporal dynamics of microplastics (MPs) in the gastrointestinal tracts of saddled seabream (Oblada melanurus) from Izmir Bay (Eastern Aegean Sea). Sampling was carried out monthly during a one-year period (March 2021-February 2022) and MPs were identified by stereomicroscopy and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Microplastics were identified in 115 of the 180 examined individuals, representing an overall frequency of occurrence (FO) of 63.89%. A total of 298 microplastic items were recovered, corresponding to a mean abundance of 1.66 ± 0.35 items individual^-1 across all examined fish (N = 180) and a mean intensity of 2.59 ± 0.41 items/individual among positive individuals (N = 115). The highest occurrence (100%) was observed during December. Fibers were the most abundant morphotype (58%) followed by fragments (39%). Black (56%) and blue (20%) particles were the most abundant colors. Size distribution was 105-4678 µm with mean length of 1370.08 ± 1122.74 µm. The most frequently identified polymers were polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 29%), polyethylene (PE, 19%) and polypropylene (PP, 18%). We did not find any significant relationships between MP abundance and fish size, weight or sex (p > 0.05). The study area was classified into high-risk category (Category IV) based on the value of Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) (129.52). The results show temporal variability of MP ingestion, likely influenced by seasonal conditions and anthropogenic activities.

PMID:42651929 | PMC:PMC13508945 | DOI:10.3390/ani16162524

Microorganisms. 2026 Aug 3;14(8):1700. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms14081700.

ABSTRACT

In this study, we evaluated the influence of physicochemical aging on the biological processing and depolymerization performance of polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) by Tenebrio molitor larvae, with the goal of improving insect-based plastic treatment strategies. PE and PLA subjected to a sequential freezing-ultraviolet aging protocol showed modest increases in total larval consumption (approximately 11% for PE and 10% for PLA) compared with pristine materials. Aging also accelerated the processes related to chemical depolymerization, as evidenced by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy showing the formation of oxidized functional groups and surface structural deterioration, respectively. Gel permeation chromatography indicated significant reductions in molecular weight. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis was used to evaluate the changes in thermal stability associated with polymer degradation. Gut microbiome analysis revealed that plastic diets and aging collectively shaped microbial structure and compositional shifts, with deterministic ecological processes dominating community assembly. PE diets enriched Proteobacteria, while PLA diets enriched Firmicutes and Desulfobacterota. Notably, aging strengthened microbial cooperation and enriched key genera, such as Spiroplasma sp. and Lactobacillus sp., which are potentially associated with plastic-associated metabolic adaptation. Overall, aging modestly facilitated larval processing and partial depolymerization of both fossil-based and bio-based plastics, as reflected by increased plastic consumption, polymer chain scission, and surface oxidation. It also enhanced the functional robustness of the larval gut microbiome. These findings provide mechanistic insights into insect-mediated plastic processing systems, offering mechanistic guidance for future, combined plastic treatment strategies rather than an immediately scalable stand-alone solution.

PMID:42655045 | PMC:PMC13515386 | DOI:10.3390/microorganisms14081700

Antioxidants (Basel). 2026 Aug 14;15(8):1016. doi: 10.3390/antiox15081016.

ABSTRACT

Honey bee colonies play a vital role in ecosystem stability and global food security. Together with bumble bees and other wild bee species, they form a diverse pollinator community that is particularly vulnerable to environmental pollution. Among stressors, environmental xenobiotics including heavy metals, metalloids, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and emerging contaminants such as microplastics pose a growing concern due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential and capacity to trigger oxidative stress and interact with pathogens, nutritional stress and climate-related extremes. The antioxidant defense system, encompassing enzymatic components (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-dependent enzymes and glutathione-S-transferase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants, represents a key protective mechanism, and its disruption leads to redox imbalance, immunosuppression, and behavioral alterations that can reduce honey bee colony vitality. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, exposure pathways and toxicological effects of major environmental xenobiotics on the antioxidant defense systems of honey bees, with particular emphasis on oxidative-stress biomarkers for early detection of sublethal impairment in field and experimental settings. Where available, evidence from bumble bees and other wild bees is considered to place findings in a broader pollinator-health context and to highlight taxa-specific sensitivities. Work should now concentrate on a validated core panel of redox biomarkers, on chronic multi-stressor exposures that include PFAS and plastic particles, and on biomarker baselines for bumble bees and solitary bees tied to colony- or population-level endpoints.

PMID:42650280 | PMC:PMC13509840 | DOI:10.3390/antiox15081016

J Environ Manage. 2026 Aug 27;416:130795. doi: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130795. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) in drinking-water sources pose potential health risks, yet their ecological threats under low-intensity anthropogenic activities remain poorly understood. To address this, this study focused on the Miyun Reservoir (Beijing's primary drinking-water source), and systematically collected surface water and sediment samples from the reservoir, its upstream protection zones, and downstream reaches. MP abundance and characteristics were determined using stereomicroscopy and micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Potential sources and fragmentation characteristics were identified by comprehensively applying characteristic-based source identification, diversity index, and a conditional fragmentation model. Ecological risks were evaluated using pollution load index (PLI), polymer hazard index (PHI), and potential ecological risk index (PERI). Results showed low MP abundance (water: 0.56 ± 0.36 items/L; sediment: 74.48 ± 54.91 items/kg), dominated by fibers and films (<1 mm). Major polymers included rayon, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. Domestic wastewater and agriculture were considered as the primary potential contributors. PLI indicated Level I (lowest risk) at all sites, whereas PHI and PERI revealed high risks at multiple sites, and correlated positively with agricultural and built-up land area, underscoring land-use control over toxicity. Within the reservoir, all sites except R2 had PHI/PERI values at Levels IV-V, exceeding upstream river sites located at the inflow, thus displaying a pattern of low abundance but high toxicity and potential ecological risks. Effective management in drinking-water source areas should therefore prioritize reducing high-hazard inputs over merely lowing MP abundance. Notably, omitting rayon from current hazard frameworks may underestimate actual ecological risks.

PMID:42660091 | DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130795

Microorganisms. 2026 Aug 14;14(8):1787. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms14081787.

ABSTRACT

Microbial enzymes have attracted considerable attention as biocatalysts for plastic transformation, yet the experimental evidence supporting reported biodegradation varies substantially in quality and interpretation. Surface-sensitive techniques, molecular-weight analyses, identification of transformation products, microbial assimilation assays, and carbon-tracking approaches each validate different stages of polymer transformation, but they are often treated as equivalent evidence of biodegradation. This review critically examines the analytical basis of enzyme-mediated plastic and microplastic transformation and introduces the Evidence-Level Framework (ELF), which classifies studies according to the highest experimentally validated transformation endpoint, from microbial colonization (ELF 0) to polymer-derived carbon conversion (ELF 5). Systematic screening identified 102 eligible experimental studies from an initial dataset of 150 publications, all of which were classified using the ELF to provide a comprehensive assessment of the current evidence landscape. Most studies clustered within intermediate evidence levels (ELF 2-3), where analytical validation was limited to polymer chain scission or the detection of soluble transformation products. By contrast, only a small proportion demonstrated microbial assimilation or unequivocal polymer-derived carbon conversion. Hydrolysable polyesters and their associated hydrolytic enzymes consistently reached the highest ELF categories because their chemical structure, enzymatic accessibility, and analytical tractability facilitate validation of successive transformation stages. Conventional plastics, however, remain constrained by polymer recalcitrance, limited substrate accessibility, microbial metabolic capacity, and the scarcity of analytical approaches capable of tracking polymer-derived carbon through biological systems. By providing a common framework for interpreting transformation claims, the ELF establishes objective criteria for experimental design, analytical validation, and comparison across independent studies, offering a stronger foundation for more reproducible, mechanistically robust, and environmentally relevant research on microbial plastic transformation.

PMID:42655131 | PMC:PMC13515129 | DOI:10.3390/microorganisms14081787

J Xenobiot. 2026 Aug 13;16(4):149. doi: 10.3390/jox16040149.

ABSTRACT

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are reported in blood, urine, and tissues, including the kidney, raising concern that the urinary system may be both a target and a route of elimination. This narrative review integrates analytical, toxicokinetic, experimental, epidemiological, and dialysis-related evidence on MNPs and renal health. Human studies report polymer-confirmed particles or polymer-associated signals in blood, urine, and kidney-related specimens, supporting systemic presence and compatibility with renal exposure; however, estimates are strongly method-dependent and do not establish anatomical localization, tissue dose, clearance, or a disease threshold. Cell, kidney-organoid, and animal studies consistently identify oxidative and mitochondrial stress, endoplasmic-reticulum dysfunction, inflammation, altered autophagy, regulated cell death, senescence, and fibrotic remodelling. Effects vary with polymer, size, shape, surface ageing, route, dose, and chemical co-exposures, and many experiments remain difficult to map to typical human exposure. Direct human outcome evidence is limited to cross-sectional or exploratory studies; plasticizer epidemiology is informative for chemical co-exposure but cannot establish particle-specific toxicity. Patients with chronic kidney disease may be more susceptible, while kidney dysfunction may also alter measured blood or urinary concentrations. Dialysis introduces an additional, incompletely quantified exposure system. MNP-related renal injury is biologically plausible, but causal contribution to human kidney disease and clinical actionability remain unproven. Standardized methods, paired-matrix kinetics, prospective cohorts, and complete dialysis mass-balance studies are priorities.

PMID:42646063 | PMC:PMC13514148 | DOI:10.3390/jox16040149

Toxics. 2026 Jul 29;14(8):673. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080673.

ABSTRACT

Bisphenols, phthalates, and other plastic-associated compounds are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), common environmental contaminants that can disrupt hormonal homeostasis. Human exposure to such chemicals occurs mainly through food packaging, consumer goods, medical devices, and the environment, starting right from early development stages up to adulthood. These chemicals might cause damage to male reproductive systems as a result of being anti-androgens and estrogenic chemicals. However, the proper development of the male reproductive system requires well-regulated hormonal signaling pathways; hence, exposure to such compounds during the developmental stages poses a great risk. Environmental exposure to plastics during fetal development may influence the development of the testes, reduce the function of the Leydig cells, disrupt steroidogenesis, and produce epigenetic modifications, as documented through studies. This has been shown to increase the risk of developing reproductive disorders and reduce the production of testosterone. Therefore, one of the pathophysiological links between endocrine disruptor exposure and ED might be testosterone deficiency. Apart from disrupting testosterone production, the plastic-sourced EDCs could influence various physiological processes associated with erectile performance, such as those related to vasculature, inflammation, metabolism, and endocrinology. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the scientific data on the effect of plastic-based EDCs on testosterone regulation and male reproductive health has been provided. The role of developmental programming, endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, epigenetics, and vascular dysfunction has been explored in detail. Moreover, the possible involvement of micro- and nanoplastics has also been reviewed. From the data that is currently available, there seems to be a physiologically plausible association between plastic-based contaminants, testosterone dysregulation, and adverse reproductive outcomes.

PMID:42646955 | PMC:PMC13517508 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080673

Toxics. 2026 Jul 28;14(8):666. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080666.

ABSTRACT

Nano- (NPs, <1 µm) and microplastics (MPs, 1 µm-5 mm) are ubiquitous contaminants whose toxicity to invertebrates carries implications at the individual scale and (although not yet quantitatively validated) at the population scale. This semi-systematic narrative review organizes available evidence within an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework, linking primary molecular initiating events (MIEs) to adverse outcomes while flagging evidence strength at each step. It involves a structured synthesis that applies selected PRISMA 2020 transparency principles, namely disclosed databases, a priori eligibility criteria, and explicit harvest and de-duplication counts, but does not attempt the exhaustive paired screening, formal risk-of-bias scoring, or quantitative meta-analysis of a full systematic review; this design was chosen because the marked heterogeneity of particle physicochemistry, exposure regimes, and endpoint metrics across the available literature makes pooled statistical synthesis premature. Evidence is appraised across Daphnia, Artemia, Chironomus, Caenorhabditis elegans, Eisenia, marine mollusks, and crustaceans. Polymer chemistry, size, surface charge, weathering, biofilm formation, additives, and adsorbed co-contaminants shape uptake and downstream toxicity. Reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial dysfunction, lysosomal destabilization, and ER stress recur as coupled key events downstream of four MIEs (direct membrane interaction, protein corona formation, surface-catalyzed redox chemistry, and Trojan horse delivery). Multi-omics datasets converge on dysregulated stress, repair, apoptotic, immune, and inflammatory programs; epigenetic marks are increasingly considered as substrates for persistent and potentially heritable toxicity, although stable transgenerational transmission remains poorly demonstrated. The review delivers (i) an AOP map with evidence-strength annotations (strong, moderate, emerging), (ii) a structured cross-study synthesis comparing NP and MP effect profiles, and (iii) a critical layer that reinterprets biphasic and apparently contradictory data as mechanistically informative once particle physicochemistry and tissue context are resolved. Progress will depend on standardized characterization, environmentally realistic mixtures, and AOP-anchored designs that distinguish experimentally demonstrated mechanisms from inferred mechanisms and theoretical extrapolations.

PMID:42646948 | PMC:PMC13517137 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080666

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 26:128995. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128995. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Weathering alters the physical properties of microplastics and can modify their transport behavior in aquatic systems, but its impact on settlement dynamics remains under-quantified. This study investigates how physico-chemical weathering affects the morphology and settling behavior of polyethylene microplastics by integrating laboratory experiments with numerical simulations. Particles underwent four laboratory-simulated weathering scenarios combining mechanical stirring, ultraviolet irradiation, and hydrogen peroxide treatment. Weathering resulted in substantial mass loss (∼25%) and systematic geometric changes, indicating size reduction accompanied by partial shape regularization. A numerical model based on an ad hoc Maxey-Riley formulation with a morphology-dependent drag coefficient was validated against independent experimental data (R² = 0.90). Modeling results show that weathering reduced the terminal settling velocity by 5.2-7.1% relative to pristine particles. Mechanical stirring produced the largest reduction (6.7%) through particle size reduction and the associated mass loss, whereas hydrogen peroxide partially offset this reduction (+1.6%) through shape regularization. Ultraviolet irradiation had a negligible effect (<0.5%). These secondary effects were associated with slight shape regularization, partially compensating for the velocity reduction. When particle shape was explicitly incorporated into the corrected Reynolds number, settling velocities collapsed into a single scaling relationship (R² > 0.99). These findings demonstrate that weathering causes slower settling of particles through size reduction, while shape-induced drag acts as a secondary but important factor in improving predictions of microplastic transport.

PMID:42648533 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128995

Toxics. 2026 Jul 31;14(8):679. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080679.

ABSTRACT

Polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) are ubiquitous in our daily lives, but their toxicological effects on mammals remain poorly understood. This study investigated the toxicity effects of PP-MPs on C57BL/6 mice using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and transcriptome sequencing. Female and male mice were randomly classified into the control and PP-MPs-treated groups, respectively, and the experiment lasted for 5 weeks. We found that PP-MPs exposure did not affect the levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and interferon gamma (IFN-γ), indicating that humoral immunity and inflammatory levels were not influenced by PP-MPs treatment. However, PP-MPs exposure reduced the PHA response in female mice, but not in male mice. It also did not alter the wet mass of testicles and ovaries, nor the levels of testosterone and estradiol. Exposure to PP-MPs altered the expression of the testicular genes. G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways, olfactory receptor activity, and protein digestion and absorption were downregulated in the PP group. Collagen genes (Col9a3, Col11a2, Col27a1, Col26a1, Col7a1) play a significant role in downregulating protein digestion and absorption. In addition, PP-MPs exposure caused a change in beta diversity of gut microbiota, indicating the alteration of their community structure. PP-MPs exposure reduced the relative abundance of the probiotic Lactobacillus. Changes in the gut microbiota may be related to the expression levels of testicular genes. Overall, PP-MPs exposure altered both the community structure of the gut microbiota and the expression levels of testicular genes in mice, and collagen genes may serve as a critical factor influencing testicular function.

PMID:42646961 | PMC:PMC13517389 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080679

Environ Monit Assess. 2026 Aug 26;198(9):981. doi: 10.1007/s10661-026-15836-7.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) are persistent and ubiquitous contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, yet their interactions with submerged aquatic plants remain poorly understood. While MP-induced phytotoxicity has been extensively investigated in terrestrial plants, quantitative evidence for MP uptake and internal accumulation in submerged species is still limited. In this study, we investigated the phytotoxicity and accumulation patterns of fluorescent microplastics (FMPs) in two submerged aquatic plants, Bacopa lanigera and Rotala indica, using fluorescence spectroscopy. Plants were exposed to FMPs of two particle sizes (50 nm and 1 µm) across three exposure concentrations (0.001%, 0.01%, and 0.05%). Plant growth, chlorophyll content, fluorescence emission, and FMP accumulation were systematically evaluated. Our results demonstrated clear size- and concentration-dependent responses. Smaller particles (50 nm) showed significantly higher uptake and induced stronger phytotoxic effects than 1 µm particles, with pronounced growth inhibition and chlorophyll reduction observed at the highest concentration (0.05%). Fluorescence-based analysis enabled quantitative estimation of both surface-associated and internalized FMPs within plant tissues. Maximum surface accumulation reached 207 ppm, while internal (cross-sectional) accumulation reached up to 75 ppm, regardless of plant species. Under the respective experimental conditions, B. lanigera exhibited higher estimated FMP accumulation, whereas R. indica showed greater growth inhibition. These findings provide quantitative evidence of microplastic uptake and internal accumulation in submerged aquatic plants and highlight particle size as a critical determinant of phytotoxicity. Moreover, this study establishes a fluorescence-based methodological framework for estimating microplastic concentrations in aquatic plant tissues, contributing to improved ecological risk assessment of microplastics in freshwater ecosystems.

PMID:42645596 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-026-15836-7

J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng. 2026 Aug 26:1-20. doi: 10.1080/10934529.2026.2722474. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics, as carriers of environmental pollutants, may influence their biological effects through adsorption. The adsorption mechanism of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET MPs) on the endocrine disrupting compound nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPE) is studied. Furthermore, the effect of the PET MPs-NPE complex on the structure and function of the carrier protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) is further explored. The adsorption process of PET MPs on NPE conforms to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R² = 0.9985) and Freundlich model (R² = 0.9241), and belongs to a spontaneous, endothermic, and entropy-increasing process. PET MPs function as effective NPE carriers, achieving a desorption rate of 59.29% in acidic buffer solution (pH 1.2), suggesting that ingestion may enhance NPE release risk in vivo. Multispectral analysis showed that free PET MPs and NPE were bound to Site II of BSA through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, altering BSA's secondary structure. When PET MPs and NPE coexist, they exhibit a combined effect, manifested by significantly enhanced binding affinity with BSA (K_b from 5.39 × 10⁴ M^-1 to 2.71 × 10⁵ M^-1) and higher disturbance to BSA conformation than a single component. The PET MPs-NPE complex triggers pronounced conformational changes in BSA, suppresses esterase-like activity, and alters thiol content.

PMID:42644688 | DOI:10.1080/10934529.2026.2722474

J Xenobiot. 2026 Jul 27;16(4):137. doi: 10.3390/jox16040137.

ABSTRACT

Aquatic animals are increasingly exposed to complex mixtures of emerging environmental toxicants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This raises serious concerns for reproductive health, offspring survival rates, and long-term population stability. This narrative review synthesizes the available peer-reviewed evidence on the reproductive and developmental effects of these contaminant groups in aquatic animals. Growing evidence indicates that these contaminants adversely affect reproductive processes, impair offspring development, and reduce survival and fitness across a wide range of aquatic species. Their effects are mediated through interconnected pathways involving oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations, ultimately leading to reproductive and developmental abnormalities. These changes may weaken wild fish populations, reduce aquaculture productivity, and compromise aquatic biodiversity. However, interpretation of the available evidence is constrained by substantial heterogeneity in species, contaminant properties and concentrations, exposure durations, and reproductive endpoints, together with the predominance of laboratory-based single-contaminant studies. This review integrates current knowledge on the reproductive and developmental impacts of emerging contaminants by connecting mechanistic toxicity pathways with population-level and ecosystem consequences. Overall, this review emphasizes that protecting aquatic reproductive health requires an integrated framework linking contaminant monitoring, mechanistic biomarkers, reproductive performance, and ecosystem-level risk assessment.

PMID:42646051 | PMC:PMC13514258 | DOI:10.3390/jox16040137

Toxics. 2026 Jul 29;14(8):673. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080673.

ABSTRACT

Bisphenols, phthalates, and other plastic-associated compounds are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), common environmental contaminants that can disrupt hormonal homeostasis. Human exposure to such chemicals occurs mainly through food packaging, consumer goods, medical devices, and the environment, starting right from early development stages up to adulthood. These chemicals might cause damage to male reproductive systems as a result of being anti-androgens and estrogenic chemicals. However, the proper development of the male reproductive system requires well-regulated hormonal signaling pathways; hence, exposure to such compounds during the developmental stages poses a great risk. Environmental exposure to plastics during fetal development may influence the development of the testes, reduce the function of the Leydig cells, disrupt steroidogenesis, and produce epigenetic modifications, as documented through studies. This has been shown to increase the risk of developing reproductive disorders and reduce the production of testosterone. Therefore, one of the pathophysiological links between endocrine disruptor exposure and ED might be testosterone deficiency. Apart from disrupting testosterone production, the plastic-sourced EDCs could influence various physiological processes associated with erectile performance, such as those related to vasculature, inflammation, metabolism, and endocrinology. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the scientific data on the effect of plastic-based EDCs on testosterone regulation and male reproductive health has been provided. The role of developmental programming, endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, epigenetics, and vascular dysfunction has been explored in detail. Moreover, the possible involvement of micro- and nanoplastics has also been reviewed. From the data that is currently available, there seems to be a physiologically plausible association between plastic-based contaminants, testosterone dysregulation, and adverse reproductive outcomes.

PMID:42646955 | PMC:PMC13517508 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080673

Environ Health (Wash). 2026 Mar 23;4(8):1664-1673. doi: 10.1021/envhealth.5c00716. eCollection 2026 Aug 21.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that accumulate in human liver tissue, yet their hepatotoxicity in humans remains incompletely defined. To investigate the association between occupational MPs exposure and hepatic dysfunction in humans, we recruited 141 participants from the Health Examination Centre of Guangxi Workers' Hospital, China, including 43 plastic-factory workers with ≥6 months of occupational exposure and 98 occupationally unexposed controls. An eight-item questionnaire-derived exposure risk score (0-8) was used to quantify MPs exposure levels. Linear and logistic regression models, adjusted for smoking, alcohol consumption, dust exposure, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity, were employed to analyze relationships between exposure (occupational status/risk score) and liver-function markers. Exposed workers exhibited higher risk scores (1.9 ± 1.1 vs 1.4 ± 0.9, P = 0.013) and twice the prevalence of abnormal liver function (48.8% vs 26.5%, P = 0.013). Each one-point increase in the risk score was associated with a significant elevation in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) by 2.82 U/L (β = 2.82, 95% CI: 0.27-5.38,P = 0.031) and total bilirubin (T-Bil) by 1.05 μmol/L (β = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.34-1.76,P = 0.004). Occupational exposure independently predicted abnormal liver function (OR = 3.97, 95% CI: 1.64-10.3, P = 0.041), with longer exposure duration linked to higher AST elevation rates. These results demonstrate that occupational MPs exposure impairs liver function, providing evidence for health-risk assessment of microplastics.

PMID:42644005 | PMC:PMC13504552 | DOI:10.1021/envhealth.5c00716

Water Res. 2026 Aug 26;308(Pt A):126781. doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2026.126781. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Transformations of polystyrene-microplastic-derived dissolved organic matter (PS-DOM) in aquatic systems and the implications for the fates of nanosized polystyrene (PS) were investigated focusing on the roles of microbial activity and UV irradiation. PS-DOM, composed of oxygenated and hydrophobic products and nanosized PS, were found to undergo self-assembly and aggregation to form colloids and microparticles, meaning PS-DOM can act as a precursor for the formation of particulate organic matter. Microbial activity markedly enhanced both self-assembly and aggregation, causing marked increases in the particle size and molecular weight. UV irradiation promoted PS-DOM transformations through photo-oxidation and the generation of hydrophilic products, but prolonged UV exposure caused partial breakdown of the microparticles that formed. Nanosized PS actively participated in these transformation processes and underwent reversible hydrophilic-hydrophobic conversions under UV irradiation. After 21 d of incubation under dark/UV and biotic/abiotic conditions, nanosized PS supplied approximately 20% of the total organic carbon content, indicating that transformed PS-DOM gave a stable total organic carbon content. The results indicated that self-assembly and aggregation assisted by microbial processes and UV irradiation play critical roles controlling PS-DOM transport, persistence, and environmental behaviors.

PMID:42648152 | DOI:10.1016/j.watres.2026.126781

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 23;516:143381. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143381. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

As typical emerging pollutants, Microplastics (MPs) pose growing threats to fragile terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. However, the co-occurrence patterns, sources, and driving factors of MPs and heavy metals (HMs) remain poorly constrained. 50 topsoil samples were collected from three latitudinally different lake basins on China's Inner Mongolia Plateau. Combined positive matrix factorization (PMF), partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and HYSPLIT models were applied to analyze MPs spatial distribution, sources and MPs-HMs co-occurrence. The results revealed a distinct latitudinal gradient in MPs abundance, which decreased with rising latitude. The average MPs abundance in the soils was 4693 n/kg, 2902 n/kg, and 2147 n/kg in the Daihai (DH), Dalinor (DLH), and Ulagai (WLG) basins, respectively. HMs concentrations exhibited significant basin-specific heterogeneity. Mixed daily-life related and agricultural activities were the predominant source of soil MPs, contributing 87.4% of the MPs pollution. PLS-SEM results elucidated the complex driving mechanisms governing the distribution of MPs in plateau soils, and grazing intensity was identified as the primary influencing factor. This study establishes a robust framework for exploring the sources and driving mechanisms of coupled MPs and HMs in soil ecosystems.

PMID:42648191 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143381

J Environ Manage. 2026 Aug 25;416:130790. doi: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130790. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) contamination in drinking water has raised increasing health concerns, yet the contributions of different aging and flow conditions on the release of MPs from plastic pipes remain insufficiently understood. This study examined the effects of external photoaging, internal chlorine aging, and their combination on MPs release from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes under stagnant and flow conditions. In stagnant water, external photoaging showed no significant influence on MPs release from PVC pipe interiors. In contrast, internal chlorine aging and combined aging significantly increased MPs release, with no statistical difference between them, indicating that internal chlorine aging was the dominant factor responsible for MPs release. After internal chlorine aging at 1.7 mg/L as Cl₂ for 9, 27, 54, and 81 d, MPs counts released into stagnant water increased from 134 ± 10 to 314 ± 59 particles. In flowing water (5.5 L/min), MPs release was substantially higher, reaching 949 ± 102 particles after 81 d, in which MPs were primarily in the <10 μm size range (30-214 particles, 40-62%). Although the carbonyl index (CI) increased with aging duration for all aging scenarios, the smallest increase occurred under internal chlorine aging, suggesting that CI was not directly linked to MPs release. Scanning electron microscopy revealed progressive hole formation on the PVC inner surfaces due to chlorine attack. Positive correlations were observed between hole density and MPs release, indicating that physical deformation resulting from chlorine oxidation was a key factor associated with MPs release.

PMID:42648222 | DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130790

Biomaterials. 2026 Aug 22;337:124569. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124569. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution, particularly from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is an emerging threat to male fertility, driving spermatogenic impairment and asthenozoospermia through mitochondrial failure and ferroptosis-two interconnected pathologies that current therapies fail to address together. Herein, we introduce an "AIE-Pharmacology" strategy that transforms the natural product Hydroxysafflor Yellow A (HSYA) into a unique theranostic agent. We discover that HSYA possesses intrinsic aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties, establishing a seamless "Drug-Probe Unity" wherein anti-ferroptotic pharmacology and self-reporting fluorescence are fused within a single molecule. Leveraging this attribute, we engineer living, functional mitochondria with HSYA to construct a bio-hybrid platform-Mito@H. This platform embodies a conceptual leap: mitochondria are no longer passive delivery vehicles but active therapeutic units that execute metabolic reprogramming by restoring NAD⁺/NADH redox balance and ATP synthesis, while the anchored HSYA concurrently suppresses ferroptosis via activation of the Nrf2/HO-1/SLC7A11/GPX4 axis. In a clinically relevant murine model of PTFE microplastic-induced asthenozoospermia, Mito@H administration strikingly rescues sperm count, progressive motility, and kinematic parameters, reconstitutes the complete spermatogenic lineage from spermatogonia to elongated spermatids, and reestablishes testicular redox homeostasis. This work pioneers a paradigm of organelle therapeutics powered by AIE-Pharmacology, offering a potent, precise, and translatable strategy to combat environmental toxicant-related male infertility and beyond.

PMID:42648265 | DOI:10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124569

J Xenobiot. 2026 Jul 27;16(4):137. doi: 10.3390/jox16040137.

ABSTRACT

Aquatic animals are increasingly exposed to complex mixtures of emerging environmental toxicants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This raises serious concerns for reproductive health, offspring survival rates, and long-term population stability. This narrative review synthesizes the available peer-reviewed evidence on the reproductive and developmental effects of these contaminant groups in aquatic animals. Growing evidence indicates that these contaminants adversely affect reproductive processes, impair offspring development, and reduce survival and fitness across a wide range of aquatic species. Their effects are mediated through interconnected pathways involving oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations, ultimately leading to reproductive and developmental abnormalities. These changes may weaken wild fish populations, reduce aquaculture productivity, and compromise aquatic biodiversity. However, interpretation of the available evidence is constrained by substantial heterogeneity in species, contaminant properties and concentrations, exposure durations, and reproductive endpoints, together with the predominance of laboratory-based single-contaminant studies. This review integrates current knowledge on the reproductive and developmental impacts of emerging contaminants by connecting mechanistic toxicity pathways with population-level and ecosystem consequences. Overall, this review emphasizes that protecting aquatic reproductive health requires an integrated framework linking contaminant monitoring, mechanistic biomarkers, reproductive performance, and ecosystem-level risk assessment.

PMID:42646051 | PMC:PMC13514258 | DOI:10.3390/jox16040137

J Xenobiot. 2026 Jul 27;16(4):137. doi: 10.3390/jox16040137.

ABSTRACT

Aquatic animals are increasingly exposed to complex mixtures of emerging environmental toxicants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This raises serious concerns for reproductive health, offspring survival rates, and long-term population stability. This narrative review synthesizes the available peer-reviewed evidence on the reproductive and developmental effects of these contaminant groups in aquatic animals. Growing evidence indicates that these contaminants adversely affect reproductive processes, impair offspring development, and reduce survival and fitness across a wide range of aquatic species. Their effects are mediated through interconnected pathways involving oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic alterations, ultimately leading to reproductive and developmental abnormalities. These changes may weaken wild fish populations, reduce aquaculture productivity, and compromise aquatic biodiversity. However, interpretation of the available evidence is constrained by substantial heterogeneity in species, contaminant properties and concentrations, exposure durations, and reproductive endpoints, together with the predominance of laboratory-based single-contaminant studies. This review integrates current knowledge on the reproductive and developmental impacts of emerging contaminants by connecting mechanistic toxicity pathways with population-level and ecosystem consequences. Overall, this review emphasizes that protecting aquatic reproductive health requires an integrated framework linking contaminant monitoring, mechanistic biomarkers, reproductive performance, and ecosystem-level risk assessment.

PMID:42646051 | PMC:PMC13514258 | DOI:10.3390/jox16040137

J Xenobiot. 2026 Jul 26;16(4):136. doi: 10.3390/jox16040136.

ABSTRACT

The exponential rise in global plastic production has resulted in the widespread environmental dissemination of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) across air, water, and biological systems. Inhalation of airborne MNPs represents a biologically plausible pathway of pulmonary exposure, particularly within indoor and occupational environments. Experimental evidence indicates that inhaled MNPs deposit within distal lung compartments, where their small aerodynamic diameter and surface reactivity may favor cellular uptake, oxidative stress induction, inflammatory activation, and prolonged biopersistence. Experimental studies further indicate that MNP exposure may induce DNA damage, chromosomal instability, and the dysregulation of signaling pathways involved in genomic integrity, thereby providing additional mechanistic support for their potential role in carcinogenesis. Chronic redox imbalance, macrophage dysfunction, inflammasome activation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and dysregulated cell adhesion collectively resemble mechanisms implicated in inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. Emerging in vitro and in vivo data further suggest that nanoplastics may function as tumor promoters or co-carcinogenic modifiers, particularly under chronic low-dose exposure or in combination with other airborne toxicants. However, human epidemiological evidence remains limited, and causality has not been established. This review synthesizes current mechanistic evidence regarding inhaled MNPs as potential modifiers of lung carcinogenesis, compares them with established inhaled carcinogens, and outlines critical research priorities necessary to clarify exposure-response relationships and clinical relevance. Current evidence supports biological plausibility rather than confirmed carcinogenic classification.

PMID:42646050 | PMC:PMC13514271 | DOI:10.3390/jox16040136

Toxics. 2026 Aug 18;14(8):731. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080731.

ABSTRACT

Lake sediments act as important sinks for heavy metals and microplastics, yet the mechanisms governing their enrichment, coexistence, and combined ecological risks remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated sediments from Daihai Lake, China, systematically characterizing the occurrence features of microplastics (morphology, size, and composition) and their associated heavy metal contents. A composite pollution risk framework (Multi Feature Potential Ecological Risk Index) was developed to evaluate microplastics-heavy metals interactions using correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis. In addition, a two-dimensional pollution index was applied to assess combined ecological risks. Results showed that MP abundance ranged from 6.60 to 26.80 n·g^-1, with a decreasing trend from southwest to northeast. Microplastics were dominated by fragments, with a high proportion of small particles (<0.25 mm), and were mainly composed of polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene. The average concentrations of heavy metals in sediments were ranked as follows: Mn (863 ± 78 mg·kg^-1); Cr (124 ± 28 mg·kg^-1); Zn (86 ± 17 mg·kg^-1); Ni (43 ± 10 mg·kg^-1); Cu (36 ± 0.1 mg·kg^-1); Pb (23 ± 5 mg·kg^-1); As (15 ± 4 mg·kg^-1); and Cd (0.20 ± 0.04 mg·kg^-1). The two-dimensional comprehensive index values ranged from 124 to 1032, with an average value of 365.0, exceeding the risk threshold (>100). Approximately 70% of sampling sites exhibited high composite pollution risks. Small-sized and fibrous microplastics showed significant positive correlations with multiple heavy metals, indicating strong carrier effects.

PMID:42647013 | PMC:PMC13517747 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080731

J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng. 2026 Aug 26:1-20. doi: 10.1080/10934529.2026.2722474. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics, as carriers of environmental pollutants, may influence their biological effects through adsorption. The adsorption mechanism of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET MPs) on the endocrine disrupting compound nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPE) is studied. Furthermore, the effect of the PET MPs-NPE complex on the structure and function of the carrier protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) is further explored. The adsorption process of PET MPs on NPE conforms to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R² = 0.9985) and Freundlich model (R² = 0.9241), and belongs to a spontaneous, endothermic, and entropy-increasing process. PET MPs function as effective NPE carriers, achieving a desorption rate of 59.29% in acidic buffer solution (pH 1.2), suggesting that ingestion may enhance NPE release risk in vivo. Multispectral analysis showed that free PET MPs and NPE were bound to Site II of BSA through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, altering BSA's secondary structure. When PET MPs and NPE coexist, they exhibit a combined effect, manifested by significantly enhanced binding affinity with BSA (K_b from 5.39 × 10⁴ M^-1 to 2.71 × 10⁵ M^-1) and higher disturbance to BSA conformation than a single component. The PET MPs-NPE complex triggers pronounced conformational changes in BSA, suppresses esterase-like activity, and alters thiol content.

PMID:42644688 | DOI:10.1080/10934529.2026.2722474

Toxics. 2026 Aug 17;14(8):730. doi: 10.3390/toxics14080730.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) increasingly co-occur in agricultural and peri-urban soils, yet their combined effects on adsorption, mobility, bioavailability, and phytotoxicity are highly context-dependent. This review synthesizes plant-soil evidence by focusing on the interacting roles of MP polymer type, particle size and shape, aging/weathering state, soil geochemistry, dissolved organic matter, and rhizosphere processes. Across the reported studies, MP-PTE interactions show several major directions of changes: MPs may reduce PTE lability by promoting adsorption, aggregation, or sequestration within coated surfaces and soil aggregates; conversely, they may increase PTE mobility and plant exposure when reversible binding, dissolved organic ligands, pH shifts, or particle transport deliver labile PTEs to root-active zones. Dose-dependent and biphasic responses are also common, with low MP additions sometimes attenuating stress while higher doses intensify toxicity. Quantitatively, available crop studies show that intensified co-exposure can reduce plant biomass by approximately 10.2-29.3%, depending on crop species, plant organ, MP type, dose, and PTE identity, whereas antagonistic or neutral responses are also reported under other exposure conditions. The strongest evidence currently exists for Cd and As, but this review also considers Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cr, and Hg to represent chemically distinct cationic, metalloid, and redox-sensitive PTEs. Overall, MPs should not be treated only as passive contaminant carriers; they act as dynamic reactivity modifiers that can function as sinks, vectors, or indirect regulators of PTE bioavailability depending on soil and rhizosphere boundary conditions.

PMID:42647012 | PMC:PMC13517782 | DOI:10.3390/toxics14080730

J Cancer. 2026 Aug 10;17(8):1470-1479. doi: 10.7150/jca.135514. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

Environmental exposure patterns have shifted from single-compound exposure to complex co-exposure scenarios. Among widespread pollutants, microplastics (MPs) and phenol may interact biologically despite their distinct physicochemical properties. Phenol is associated with oxidative stress-related toxicity, whereas MPs may serve as potential carriers and redox-active modifiers. This review proposes that MP-induced oxidative stress and phenol-mediated antioxidant disruption may jointly reshape redox-sensitive intracellular signaling under MPs-phenol co-exposure conditions, with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways proposed as potential convergence nodes. Within this framework, MAPK signaling may link oxidative stress to hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) stabilization, angiogenic responses, and tumor-associated processes, and may also facilitate NF-κB/STAT3-mediated inflammatory signaling and PD-L1 regulation. Because direct experimental evidence for these integrated mechanisms remains limited, this framework should be regarded as a biologically plausible and testable model rather than a confirmed causal pathway. This review highlights key knowledge gaps and future priorities for evaluating how complex environmental co-exposures may influence cancer progression and immune regulation.

PMID:42644062 | PMC:PMC13505363 | DOI:10.7150/jca.135514

Anal Chim Acta. 2026 Oct 22;1420:345970. doi: 10.1016/j.aca.2026.345970. Epub 2026 Jul 13.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Microplastics (MPs) can adsorb and accumulate chromium and antibiotics in environments, releasing these pollutants in the human stomach and inducing potential health risks. Although simple static gastrointestinal models have been adopted to preliminarily evaluate the bioaccessibility of chromium-loaded MPs (Cr-MPs) by maintaining constant digestive parameters, they cannot faithfully replicate the fluid mechanics and dynamic physiological variations of real human gastric digestion. Moreover, current research lacks systematic exploration of antibiotic-modulated chromium adsorption on MPs and their combined toxicological effects during stomach digestion.

RESULTS: A self-developed dynamic stomach model coupled with HPLC-ICPMS was adopted to explore chromium adsorption by three typical antibiotics-affected MPs and the gastric release and toxicity of Cr-MPs. Chromium species adsorption on PVC MPs is mainly physical, and antibiotics significantly promote chromium adsorption on MPs via multiple interfacial interactions. During gastric digestion, Cr(VI) on MPs was rapidly reduced to Cr(III) within 15 min, and antibiotic intervention reduced chromium release rate but increased total release amount. Both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) posed no non-carcinogenic hazards, while antibiotics elevated children's Cr(VI) carcinogenic risks from acceptable to significant levels.

SIGNIFICANCE: This work systematically investigates the adsorption mechanism of chromium by MPs in the environment, the release and speciation transformation of chromium during gastric digestion, and the effects of antibiotics on the aforementioned processes. It supplies a reference for exploring the interactions between MPs, antibiotics, and metals in the human digestive system, offering scientific support for the accurate assessment of human health risks posed by MPs-bound heavy metal pollutants.

PMID:42648844 | DOI:10.1016/j.aca.2026.345970

Talanta. 2026 Aug 19;312(Pt B):130483. doi: 10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130483. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics(MPs) are a new class of persistent and recalcitrant pollutants that pose significant ecological and health threats, highlighting the critical need to develop efficient and straightforward detection techniques. In this study, an Fe₃O₄@lauric acid (La)-modified electrode-based MP sensing platform was designed by combining the high-performance MP adsorption material Fe₃O₄@La and electrochemical analysis. The Fe₃O₄@La composite was synthesized using the liquid-phase deposition method from Fe₃O₄ and lauric acid to capture polystyrene (PS) MPs. Ferrocene (Fc) signal molecules were subsequently adsorbed onto the active sites of the captured MPs, and quantification was achieved via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). This strategy leverages the hydrophobic and electronegative characteristics of the target, ensuring high selectivity and maintaining strong performance despite the presence of cations, anions, and organic substances. The sensor exhibited good linearity within the MP concentration range of 5 - 500 μg/L, achieving a low detection limit (LOD) of 1.91 μg/L. In the analysis of real samples, the method demonstrated satisfactory spike recovery ranging from 89.0% to 107.1%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) ≤ 8.03%. This study provides a sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective approach with significant potential for detecting MPs in water.

PMID:42648166 | DOI:10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130483

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2026 Aug 26. doi: 10.1007/s00405-026-10564-7. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate microplastics (MPs) in nasal lavage samples and the effect of nasal irrigation in children with adenoid hypertrophy (AH), with or without otitis media with effusion (OME).

METHODS: Children with AH, AH/OME, and healthy controls were included. Adenoid size was assessed endoscopically as the percentage of choanal obstruction. Nasal lavage samples were collected at baseline and after 1 month of twice-daily saline nasal irrigation. MP density and total MP count were quantified.

RESULTS: A total of 61 children were included: 23 with AH, 19 with AH/OME, and 19 controls. Baseline MP density was 1.56 ± 0.53, 1.79 ± 0.94, and 1.97 ± 0.83 pieces/ml, respectively; total MP counts were 4.39 ± 1.61, 4.10 ± 2.53, and 6.47 ± 4.18. Baseline MP density was similar among groups, while total MP count was higher in controls than in one AH group. After irrigation, MP density and total MP count decreased significantly only in controls (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003), whereas no statistically significant reductions were detected in the AH groups. Adenoid size was negatively correlated with Δ MP density (r=-0.335, p = 0.008) and Δ total MP count (r=-0.322, p = 0.011), suggesting lower clearance with greater obstruction. Hierarchical regression showed that, after adjustment for age and baseline MP density, adenoid percentage was independently associated with reduced MP density clearance, but not with total MP count reduction. Exploratory ROC analysis showed limited discriminatory ability for adenoid percentage in identifying reduced MP clearance (AUC = 0.662).

CONCLUSION: MPs were detected in nearly all children. In this exploratory study, adenoid hypertrophy showed a possible association with reduced post-lavage microplastic clearance; however, baseline findings did not support a simple microplastic trapping mechanism, and causality cannot be inferred from nasal lavage data alone. Further age-matched tissue-level studies are needed.

PMID:42642535 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-026-10564-7

Anal Bioanal Chem. 2026 Aug 25. doi: 10.1007/s00216-026-06735-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy is an emerging technique to analyze submicron mid-infrared absorption. It can be combined with concurrent, co-located Raman spectroscopy on the same instrument platform, offering considerable potential for microplastic analysis. However, since measurements are typically performed directly on collection filters, substrate selection becomes a critical yet un-examined factor for these concurrent modalities. Here, we characterized nine commercially available filter substrates, namely Anodisc, silicon, gold-coated PET, gold-coated PC, silver, glass and quartz microfiber, PC, and cellulose, for O-PTIR and Raman analysis using 14 µm and 7 µm PMMA microplastic beads. Spectral fidelity was quantified via hit quality indices against a CaF₂ reference. Our results show that substrate suitability is governed by modality-specific requirements. O-PTIR demands mid-infrared spectral neutrality and is additionally sensitive to the substrate surface, whereas the quality of Raman spectra primarily depends on the absence of substrate Raman bands. Beyond spectral match quality, the reproducibility of PMMA spectra is consistently higher in the Raman channel than in the O-PTIR channel. This difference is attributed to O-PTIR's sensitivity to local thermal contact and surface morphology, which introduce measurement variability absent in direct Raman scattering. Of the tested substrates, Anodisc and gold-coated PET performed the best in both modalities and with both particle sizes. These findings demonstrate that recommendations for substrates established for conventional FTIR or Raman microscopy cannot be transferred directly to O-PTIR. They also provide an evidence-based framework for selecting substrates in multimodal microplastic analysis workflows.

PMID:42642666 | DOI:10.1007/s00216-026-06735-4

Eur Phys J E Soft Matter. 2026 Aug 26;49(9):77. doi: 10.1140/epje/s10189-026-00626-3.

ABSTRACT

Concentrations of pollutants, such as microplastics, can be used to predict exposure and assess risk to organisms. In estuaries, the clustering and dispersion of materials is influenced by flows ranging from small-scale wind, wave, and tidal turbulence to regional-scale circulations. Axial convergence, paired regional-scale roll cells formed via cross-estuary density gradients from tidal jets in channel estuaries, collect surface particles in convergent bands over length scales of O(100 m-10 km). Turbulent roll cells, such as Langmuir cells, instead collect surface and bottom particles over scales of O(10-100 m). Here, the dispersion and clustering of suspended particles along-estuary and cross-estuary in an estuary with multi-scale turbulent-axial convergent flow is examined to diagnose the combined influence on particle concentrations and pollution risks. A turbulence-resolving shallow-water large eddy simulation is modified with cross-estuary varying tidal flow and along-estuary density gradients to drive axial roll cells. Wind stress and Stokes drift drive shear and Langmuir turbulence (LT). In axially converging estuaries, tidal jet shear dominates particle dispersion, acting most efficiently among neutrally buoyant particles; dispersion of buoyantly rising particles is enhanced by vertical mixing from LT. With LT, particle clouds show increased clustering compared to model runs without LT, dividing into more numerous, narrower, yet denser band-like clusters within windrows. Langmuir turbulence during slack tides alters the regional dispersion and clustering of particles by axial convergence.

PMID:42642708 | DOI:10.1140/epje/s10189-026-00626-3

Prep Biochem Biotechnol. 2026 Aug 26:1-21. doi: 10.1080/10826068.2026.2720085. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution is a pervasive global challenge, with millions of tons of plastic entering terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems each year and persisting across diverse environmental compartments. Conventional physical and chemical remediation strategies remain energy-intensive and inefficient, highlighting the need for scalable biological alternatives. Here, we synthesize recent advances in lipase-mediated degradation of ester-bond-containing plastics and propose a unifying framework for programmable biodegradation, in which enzyme activity, substrate accessibility, and downstream metabolism are systematically coordinated. Lipases (EC 3.1.1.3) can hydrolyze synthetic polyesters, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane (PU), polylactide (PLA), and polycaprolactone (PCL), but their performance is constrained by polymer crystallinity, limited environmental stability, and restricted substrate specificity. Integrating insights from multi-omics discovery, artificial intelligence-guided enzyme engineering, and systems-level design reveals emerging strategies to enhance catalytic efficiency and environmental robustness. Although engineered enzyme systems can achieve high depolymerization and monomer recovery under controlled conditions, translation to real environments remains limited by diffusion constraints, enzyme inactivation, and regulatory considerations. Reframing plastic degradation as a multi-scale, designable system rather than a single-enzyme process highlights opportunities for coupling protein engineering with controlled deployment, including biofilm-based localization and metabolic pathway integration, to enable more effective and environmentally relevant microplastic remediation.

PMID:42643051 | DOI:10.1080/10826068.2026.2720085

Glob Chang Biol. 2026 Aug;32(8):e71078. doi: 10.1111/gcb.71078.

ABSTRACT

The Lifeboat hypothesis proposes that microplastics act as mobile microbial refugia, buffering environmental stress and enabling persistence, adaptation and dispersal of microorganisms, including pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinants. Microplastic-associated biofilms (the plastisphere) mitigate UV radiation, osmotic stress and environmental fluctuations, while promoting stress responses and horizontal gene transfer. Ocean circulation then facilitates long-range transport of these communities, linking distant ecosystems. Climate-driven cryosphere thaw may further introduce ancient microorganisms into the contemporary plastisphere ('paleo-plastisphere'), where they are captured and redistributed. In parallel, ingestion by marine organisms provides a biological bypass that enhances microbial survival and accelerates trophic transfer. Collectively, these processes position microplastics as dynamic vectors of microbial connectivity, with implications for infectious disease exposure, biosecurity leakage and transboundary AMR dissemination under global environmental change.

PMID:42639686 | PMC:PMC13504645 | DOI:10.1111/gcb.71078

Vet Med (Praha). 2026 Jul 29;71(7):280-294. doi: 10.17221/95/2025-VETMED. eCollection 2026 Jul.

ABSTRACT

Although microplastic toxicity in fish has been extensively studied, the role of polymer additives remains insufficiently understood. This study investigated the combined effects of polystyrene (PS) microplastics and the brominated flame retardant hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) on the health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) following six weeks of dietary exposure. Fish were exposed to PS particles with varying HBCD content (0.0 mg/g - PS-HBCD_free, 0.2 mg/g - PS-HBCD_low, 1.0 mg/g - PS-HBCD_high) or to HBCD alone (HBCD_only). The combination of PS and HBCD induced the most pronounced biological responses at molecular, biochemical and histological levels. In the liver, oxidative stress and upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (il8, il2), together with increased catalase expression, were observed in PS- and/or PS-HBCD-exposed groups, indicating an imbalance in antioxidant defence. Histopathology confirmed liver dystrophy and renal lesions, while elevated vitellogenin expression suggested endocrine disruption. Although HBCD accumulation was confirmed only in the HBCD_only group, the polymer-bound form caused comparable physiological alterations, supporting its contribution to combined toxicity. Overall, the study demonstrates that PS microparticles can act as vectors enhancing the bioactivity of embedded additives such as HBCD, resulting in complex multi-organ effects and emphasising the importance of assessing additive-polymer interactions when evaluating the environmental risks of microplastics.

PMID:42639346 | PMC:PMC13501264 | DOI:10.17221/95/2025-VETMED

Talanta. 2026 Aug 18;312(Pt B):130476. doi: 10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130476. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

There is a quest for investigating the effect of microplastics (MPs) aging on the human bioaccessibility of plastic additives and the degradation products thereof. In this study, polyethylene (PE) certified reference MPs containing eight phthalate congeners with distinct polarities, ranging from dimethyl phthalate (DMP) to diisodecyl phthalate, plus bisphenol A (BPA) were weathered under controlled UV irradiation in a climatic chamber to simulate early-stage environmental aging. A suspect screening workflow using liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry was leveraged to identify degradation products, namely, monomethyl phthalate, monoethyl phthalate, monobutyl phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate, monoisononyl phthalate isomers, and BPA-catechol, which were subsequently incorporated into a targeted analytical method. An automatic dynamic flow-through system based on the Unified Bioaccessibility Method (UBM) was designed for the simultaneous quantification of the oral bioaccessible concentrations of both parent compounds and degradation products. The flow-based method enables continuous extraction under physiologically relevant conditions (37 °C) along with the in-line sorptive clean-up of the gastrointestinal (GI) extracts and the handling of isotopologues. The highest GI bioaccessibility in aged PE MPs was found for parent compounds, such as BPA (76%), diethyl phthalate (92%), and DMP (108%) , while more hydrophobic congeners exhibited release down to 15%. All degradation products were significantly bioaccessible, on account of their enhanced polarity, with values > 51%. Temporal extraction profiles of both parent compounds and degradation products thereof fitted a first-order kinetic model (R² > 0.95), with apparent rate constants for the parent species of one to two orders of magnitude higher than those previously reported for pristine MPs using semi-continuous extraction systems. Overall, the integration of environmental aging, suspect screening, and an advanced automatic dynamic UBM method enhances the mechanistic understanding of the release of MP additives under physiologically relevant conditions and sets a framework for the realistic human health risk assessment of MP-associated contaminants.

PMID:42641378 | DOI:10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130476

Water Res. 2026 Aug 14;308(Pt A):126715. doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2026.126715. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) levels in surface waters of aquatic systems are substantially lower than expected from estimated inputs. This "missing plastic" phenomenon has drawn attention to systematic gaps in how detect and classify particle states. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) mediated ecological corona (eco-corona) formation represents an interface transition. This process changes MNP surface properties and environmental behavior, yet it has received less systematic attention than biofouling, marine snow incorporation, and physical transport. This critical review examines how EPS governs the surface properties and interactions of MNPs. As a ubiquitous constituent of eco-coronas, EPS also shapes particle aggregation, vertical transfer, and bioavailability. EPS encounters MNPs through charge screening, polymer bridging, and gel-network entrapment. The eco-corona formation constitutes the true interface transformation. This transition alters colloidal stability and buoyancy. It also promotes heteroaggregation and co-settling, shifting MNPs from surface waters toward deeper waters and sediments. While this EPS-mediated pathway operates alongside other recognized processes, it represents a mechanistically distinct and being neglected to the apparent surface mediator of MNPs. Consequently, water quality approaches and risk assessments that rely exclusively on surface free particle levels may systematically underestimate actual MNP exposure and ecological hazards. This paper establishes a framework that links the molecular interface mechanism to macro-environmental behavior. It demonstrates that EPS-mediated eco-corona formation does not simply change risk; instead, it shifts the exposure context and redistributes MNPs across environmental compartments. These insights provide a foundation for refining risk assessments of MNPs in aquatic systems.

PMID:42641430 | DOI:10.1016/j.watres.2026.126715

Water Res. 2026 Aug 22;308(Pt A):126775. doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2026.126775. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) efficiently remove microplastics (MPs), yet residual MPs in high-volume effluents may remain environmentally relevant. Whether MP-associated plastisphere communities undergo succession distinct from the water phase during sequential treatment, and how this affects antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and their potential hosts, remains unclear. Here, environmental plastic fragments were sequentially exposed to 12 units of a full-scale A²/O WWTP, with contemporaneously collected water-phase samples used for comparison. By integrating 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomics, HT-qPCR-based absolute quantification, metagenome-assembled genome (MAG)-based host inference and water-quality association analysis, we characterized bacterial succession, resistome dynamics, potential ARG hosts, and their associations with environmental factors. Water-phase communities and resistomes showed strong unit-specific fluctuations, reflecting responses to influent inputs, floc formation and removal, filtration, and disinfection. In contrast, the plastisphere exhibited more stage-structured succession, higher community stability, and stronger ARG continuity. Among 276 recovered MAGs, 270 were identified as potential ARG hosts. Several potential ARG hosts with relatively high ARG burdens, including Enterobacteriaceae-affiliated MAGs, showed relative maintenance on MP surfaces during later treatment stages, with dynamics closely tracking ARG changes. Oxygen-pH and nitrogen-related factors were strongly associated with the plastisphere resistome and showed more consistent associations with plastisphere ARGs and potential hosts than in the water phase. These findings suggest that the observed ARG continuity in the plastisphere may be associated with relatively stable microbial communities and the retention of ARG-associated potential hosts, indicating possible residual MP-associated resistome risks in treated effluent.

PMID:42641432 | DOI:10.1016/j.watres.2026.126775

Mar Pollut Bull. 2026 Aug 25;233(Pt 2):120274. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120274. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Plastic production enterprises are significant sources of microplastics (MPs) and bisphenol A (BPA), but the environmental impacts of their wastewater remain unclear. This study investigated the receiving environment of a large-scale plastic production enterprise whose wastewater discharges into a coastal inflow river and ultimately flows into the bay. MP concentrations in downstream river water and sediments ranged from 1001 to 2514 items/L and 3055-6355 items/kg, respectively, increasing by 413.21% and 380.69% compared with upstream areas. In the outlet effluent, polyethylene was dominant (35.75%), followed by polypropylene (25.12%) and polyethylene terephthalate (21.65%). Polyethylene terephthalate tended to deposit in sediments, while PE migrated over long distances and dominated downstream river and bay samples. The molecular weight of MPs showed an increase of 10.19%-28.29% in downstream areas, which suggests the input of less-aged MPs from the plastic production enterprise. As BPA carriers, MPs contained BPA at concentrations 2-12 times higher than background concentration, and BPA release during MP fragmentation may pose a potential threat. To evaluate ecological risks, toxicity data for MPs in freshwater, seawater, freshwater sediment, and marine sediment were compiled separately, and species sensitivity distribution and risk quotient (RQ) methods were applied to each compartment. For MPs, RQ values were 10.52-119.71 in freshwater, 4.70-17.38 in seawater, 0.45-4.64 in freshwater sediment, and 5.57-19.13 in marine sediment, indicating generally high ecological risk. Overall, plastic industry effluent greatly modified pollutant composition, transport behavior, and ecological risks across the coastal environment.

PMID:42641455 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120274

Chemosphere. 2026 Aug 25;411:145069. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2026.145069. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (<5 mm) are widespread environmental contaminants, with increasing human exposure through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Their presence in terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric systems, along with detection in human tissues such as blood, lungs, placenta, and the gastrointestinal tract, highlights their bioavailability and potential health risks. Owing to their small size, high surface-area-to-volume ratio, and surface reactivity, microplastics can interact with biological molecules and cells, raising concerns about their role in disease development. This review presents a mechanistic perspective on microplastic-induced carcinogenesis. Microplastics can enter the body via multiple routes and disrupt cellular homeostasis by inducing oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genotoxicity. These effects contribute to genomic instability and dysregulation of key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt, which are associated with tumor initiation and progression. Additionally, microplastics act as "Trojan horse" carriers, facilitating the transport of co-contaminants such as heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, and microbial agents, thereby enhancing their bioavailability and toxicity. The combined effects of microplastics and associated toxicants amplify oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and epigenetic alterations, promoting a pro-tumorigenic environment. Despite growing evidence, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding long-term exposure, the behavior of nanoplastics in biological systems, and their direct link to cancer. This review emphasizes the need for integrated and interdisciplinary research to better understand microplastic-associated carcinogenesis and to support effective risk assessment and regulatory strategies.

PMID:42641483 | DOI:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2026.145069

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 21;516:143355. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143355. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Soil salinization and microplastic (MP) pollution are important pressures on saline-alkali ecosystems, yet their associations with soil microbial communities along natural salinity gradients remain unclear. We investigated low (LS), medium (MS), and high-salinity (HS) soils in Qinghai Province using MP characterization and high-throughput sequencing. MP abundance was highest at MS sites (12660 items/kg), compared with LS (7395 items/kg) and HS (4660 items/kg), indicating a non-monotonic pattern. Bacterial community composition differed significantly among salinity groups (ANOSIM, R = 0.7193, P = 0.006), whereas fungal communities did not (R = 0.0288, P = 0.3910). Bacterial assembly shifted from predominantly deterministic under LS conditions to stochastic under MS conditions, with deterministic processes increasing again under HS conditions; fungal communities remained predominantly deterministic. Total soil salinity and MP abundance were among the variables most strongly associated with microbial community variation. Predicted functional profiles were broadly stable, although several functions showed contrasting bacterial and fungal trends. These findings highlight distinct bacterial and fungal responses and support targeted MP monitoring and source control in saline-alkali farmland.

PMID:42641517 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143355

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 25:129000. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129000. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The high metabolism and homeostatic roles of kidney make it susceptible to microplastics (MPs); however, the specific antioxidant targets and resulting metabolic alterations remain largely unknown. In this study, the effects of polypropylene-MPs on oxidative homeostasis were refined by discriminating protein families and renal metabolic landscapes via Raman spectra and untargeted metabolomics. Polypropylene-MPs caused remarkable fluctuations in biochemical process, renal function and redox homeostasis exerting differential disturbances on expression of antioxidant genes such as Gpx5. Molecular docking results proposed the possible disruptions of polypropylene-MPs on protein structures of Gsta5, Gstt4, Gpx5 and Txnrd2. Additionally, polypropylene-MPs induced renal lesions and fibrosis, and mitochondrial cristae disorganization. A multilayer perceptron neural network illustrated the associations between key Raman spectral fingerprints (668, 1112 and 1300 cm^-1) and the renal glomerular changes. Untargeted metabolomics confirmed myriad alterations in cellular metabolic processes manifesting detoxification overload reflected by sulfated metabolites and glutathione conjugates, phospholipid remodeling, mitochondrial energy crisis, and nutritional exhaustion. These metabolic reprogramming and reactive oxygen species imbalance were intimately correlated from Raman spectral fingerprints. Our findings provided theoretical clues on the disturbance of polypropylene-MPs on oxidative homeostasis by interacting with certain antioxidant enzymes, and the consequent renal metabolic reprogramming and renal dysfunctions.

PMID:42641857 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129000

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 25;409:129039. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129039. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Tire wear particle (TWP) contribute considerably to microplastic contamination in aquatic environments and are increasingly recognized as emerging contaminants of ecological concern. However, their effects on lipid metabolism in amphibians remain unclear. In this study, adult male black-spotted frogs (Pelophylax nigromaculatus) were exposed for 21 days to TWP leachates at concentrations of 0, 0.0005, 0.005, 0.05, and 0.5 mg/mL. The results showed that TWP leachate exposure significantly induced hepatic lipid droplet accumulation. Additionally, significant increases were observed in the hepatosomatic index and hepatic lipid parameters, including triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Untargeted LC-MS-based metabolomics further revealed significant changes in hepatic metabolites after TWP exposure. Pathway analysis showed significant disruption of energy metabolism (TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation) and lipid metabolism (glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid pathways). These results suggest that TWP leachates may induce hepatic lipid accumulation associated with disturbances in mitochondrial energy metabolism. Our findings provide new insights into the hepatotoxic effects of TWP in amphibians.

PMID:42641859 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129039

Vet Med (Praha). 2026 Jul 29;71(7):280-294. doi: 10.17221/95/2025-VETMED. eCollection 2026 Jul.

ABSTRACT

Although microplastic toxicity in fish has been extensively studied, the role of polymer additives remains insufficiently understood. This study investigated the combined effects of polystyrene (PS) microplastics and the brominated flame retardant hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) on the health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) following six weeks of dietary exposure. Fish were exposed to PS particles with varying HBCD content (0.0 mg/g - PS-HBCD_free, 0.2 mg/g - PS-HBCD_low, 1.0 mg/g - PS-HBCD_high) or to HBCD alone (HBCD_only). The combination of PS and HBCD induced the most pronounced biological responses at molecular, biochemical and histological levels. In the liver, oxidative stress and upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (il8, il2), together with increased catalase expression, were observed in PS- and/or PS-HBCD-exposed groups, indicating an imbalance in antioxidant defence. Histopathology confirmed liver dystrophy and renal lesions, while elevated vitellogenin expression suggested endocrine disruption. Although HBCD accumulation was confirmed only in the HBCD_only group, the polymer-bound form caused comparable physiological alterations, supporting its contribution to combined toxicity. Overall, the study demonstrates that PS microparticles can act as vectors enhancing the bioactivity of embedded additives such as HBCD, resulting in complex multi-organ effects and emphasising the importance of assessing additive-polymer interactions when evaluating the environmental risks of microplastics.

PMID:42639346 | PMC:PMC13501264 | DOI:10.17221/95/2025-VETMED

Environ Toxicol Chem. 2026 Aug 24:vgag235. doi: 10.1093/etojnl/vgag235. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

As an emerging contaminant, the co-presence of microplastics (MPs) of multiple sizes can exacerbate ecological risks. This study investigated the individual and combined toxicity of three-sized MPs (0.2, 0.3, 0.4 μm) and three macrolide antibiotics on Chlorella pyrenoidosa. In a single exposure scenario, 0.4 μm polystyrene (PS) and carboxyl-modified polystyrene (CPS) demonstrated greater toxicity than the 0.2 μm size, while amino-modified polystyrene (APS) showed an inverse size-dependent effect. At environmentally relevant concentrations (0.0005-0.001 mg/L), most particle-size-related differences in growth inhibition were small and statistically nonsignificant. More pronounced but non-monotonic size effects emerged at 1 mg L-1 and varied with MP type and exposure duration. Notably, 0.4 μm MPs significantly suppressed superoxide dismutase activity, and the correlation between total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde shifted from negative to positive at high concentrations, indicating antioxidant defense failure. Binary growth inhibition was strongly dependent on antibiotic identity, MP type, particle size, and exposure concentration. Short-term exposure (96 hr) at high levels of MPs showed toxicity order: 0.4 μm > 0.2 μm > 0.3 μm, though differences diminished over time. Compared to antibiotics alone, MP-antibiotic mixtures generally showed reduced toxicity due to MP adsorption lowering bioavailable antibiotic concentrations. The 0.3-0.4 μm APS combination increased chlorophyll a inhibition by 59.3% compared to the 0.2-0.3 μm group, attributed to enhanced sedimentation and interfacial contact affecting photosynthesis. This study elucidates how MP particle size dictates the evolution of combined toxicity by concurrently regulating sedimentation, adsorption, and pollutant slow-release kinetics, providing a critical new perspective for assessing the risks of MP-antibiotic co-pollution in realistic environments.

PMID:42636252 | DOI:10.1093/etojnl/vgag235

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 22;516:143364. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143364. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly prevalent in agroecosystems, yet their impacts on soil denitrification rate and nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions remain poorly understood, particularly regarding how MPs type influences the partitioning between N₂O and dinitrogen (N₂). We integrated the gas-flow-soil-core (GFSC) technique, ¹⁵N tracing technique, and a global meta-analysis of 162 pairwise observations to demonstrate how biodegradable and conventional MPs affect soil denitrification and N₂O production. The GFSC analysis showed that the highest N₂ emission rates was observed in biodegradable MPs-amended soils (3.9 μg N kg soil^-1 h^-1); while the N₂O emission rates was higher in conventional MPs-amended soils (0.46 μg N kg soil^-1 h^-1) than in biodegradable MPs-amended and no-MPs soils. The N₂O/(N₂O+N₂) ratio in conventional MPs-amended soils was much higher than that in other treatments, indicating a high N₂O emission potential. The meta-analysis revealed that MPs globally increase soil N₂O emissions, with contrasting effects between biodegradable and conventional types under different moisture regimes. Mechanistically, biodegradable MPs released labile carbon, stimulating microbial activity, enhancing gross N mineralization and nitrification, and increasing N availability for plant and microbial uptake, as shown by ¹ ⁵N tracing. They also upregulated key denitrifying genes (nirK, nirS, nosZI and nosZII), promoting complete denitrification and lowering the N₂O/(N₂O+N₂) ratio despite greater total (N₂O+N₂) flux. In contrast, recalcitrant conventional MPs failed to activate these pathways, resulting in incomplete denitrification and elevated N₂O emissions. Notably, in soils with high moisture, the N₂O emission rates increased following addition of biodegradable MPs, indicating a potential risk of N₂O emissions under regions with intensified future rainfall. Collectively, our integrated approach demonstrates that the net impact of MPs on greenhouse gas emissions is substantially modulated by their polymer type, which differentially regulates microbial N cycling and the ultimate partitioning of denitrification products. Our findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms of MPs on microbe-mediated N₂O emissions from the perspective of N transformation.

PMID:42636584 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143364

J Hazard Mater. 2026 Aug 21;516:143348. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143348. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Microplastics represent ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants, with growing evidence of their accumulation in human tissues including the lung. Chronic pulmonary exposure has been associated with tissue damage, fibrotic remodeling, and immune dysregulation; however, a systematic understanding of the underlying multicellular dynamics and transcriptional alterations remains limited. Polyethylene is a dominant component of airborne microplastics, yet its specific pathogenic mechanisms in the lung are poorly characterized.

METHODS: We developed a rat model of chronic intranasal exposure to polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs). Lung tissues from exposed and control animals were analyzed by histopathology and subjected to high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Computational pipelines were employed to construct a comprehensive cellular atlas, characterize transcriptomic alterations, infer cellular communication, and map transcription factor regulatory networks. Cell populations were annotated based on canonical markers, and differential analyses compared PE-MPs-exposed and control groups.

RESULTS: Histological analysis revealed enhanced collagen deposition and perivascular lymphocyte infiltration in PE-MPs-exposed lungs. scRNA-seq profiling of 25,625 cells delineated a remodeled cellular landscape, marked by expansion of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts alongside increased proportions of T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells, coupled with a contraction of specific epithelial and endothelial subsets. Fibroblasts exhibited an activated phenotype characterized by upregulation of extracellular matrix genes and inferred hyperactivation of TGF-β pathway transducers Smad3 and Smad4. Epithelial dysfunction was evident across populations: club cells displayed altered differentiation potential, ciliated cells showed impaired ciliogenesis, and alveolar type II cells downregulated surfactant homeostasis genes. Myeloid immune cells upregulated chemokines (Cxcl9, Cxcl10, Ccl3, Ccl4) and MHC molecules, indicating enhanced antigen-presenting capacity and chemotactic activity. Notably, Tgfb1 expression was significantly elevated in plasmacytoid dendritic cells, monocytes, macrophages, and NK/NKT cells. Ligand-receptor interaction analysis predicted heightened TGF-β1 signaling to fibroblasts and increased chemokine-mediated recruitment of immune cells, particularly plasmacytoid dendritic cells. CD123, TGF‑β1, and p‑Smad3 immunoreactivities co‑localized with Masson's trichrome‑stained collagen deposits in the perivascular spaces of small pulmonary arteries.

CONCLUSION: This study provides a high-resolution single-cell transcriptomic atlas delineating the pulmonary response to chronic PE-MPs exposure. We identify a coordinated pathogenic network involving epithelial/endothelial dysfunction, immune microenvironment imbalance, and fibroblast activation via paracrine TGF-β signaling as central mechanisms driving microplastic-induced lung injury. These findings elucidate novel cellular and molecular pathways linking environmental plastic exposure to pulmonary fibrosis and immune dysregulation, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

PMID:42636583 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143348

Mar Pollut Bull. 2026 Aug 24;233(Pt 2):120285. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120285. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Coastal aquaculture represents a potential local source of microplastics (MPs), and filter-feeding bivalves can substantially mediate MP biogeochemical cycling. In this study, Crassostrea gigas cultured in Haizhou Bay was used to characterize the spatiotemporal dynamics of microplastic accumulation and biodeposition, providing empirical insights into the oyster-mediated biological plastic pump during three representative farming stages within an aquaculture cycle. Ambient MP dynamics were compared among three aquaculture modes (hanging cage, spat collection, and intertidal reef), whereas oyster MP accumulation and net biodeposition rates were monitored under the hanging-cage mode. Aquaculture mode significantly influenced water-column MP loads. Across all sampling sites and aquaculture stages, the overall ambient MP concentrations ranged from 3.50 ± 0.25 to 9.78 ± 0.33 items/L. In situ cultured oysters exhibited a biodilution pattern: absolute MP abundance increased from 6.25 ± 1.41 to 11.15 ± 2.32 items/ind., whereas weight-normalized concentrations decreased from 1.13 ± 0.63 to 0.38 ± 0.09 items/g wet weight across the culture cycle. Net oyster biodeposition rates increased from 1.88 ± 0.24 to 2.43 ± 0.14 items/ind./day across the culture cycle. Integrated analysis of the water, oyster, and biodeposit compartments indicated stage-specific temporal variations: during the grow-out stage, oysters may promote vertical MP transfer to the benthos, whereas the rebound in ambient MPs during later stages is hypothesized to involve exogenous inputs, though this remains an untested hypothesis. These findings suggest that growth-driven biodilution reduces relative MP accumulation in oyster tissues, while the observed composition of biodeposits is characterized by a high proportion of small fibers and particles transferred to the benthos. Together, these observed dynamics reflect the stage-dependent biodeposition rate of the biological plastic pump, providing an empirical basis for standardized monitoring and risk assessment in coastal aquaculture areas.

PMID:42636644 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120285

Mar Pollut Bull. 2026 Aug 24;233(Pt 2):120273. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120273. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) are a growing concern globally but ecotoxicological studies assessing the effects of the most abundant MP morphotype, microfibers, remain limited. Here, we investigated the concentration-dependent effects of acrylic microfibers (AMFs) on spats of commercially important slipper cupped oyster (Magallana bilineata). Oyster spats (55-d post fertilization, 1-5 mm) were sub-chronically (30-d) exposed to 0, 1, 10, 100 AMF mL^-1 as treatments and sub-samples were periodically collected to determine AMF ingestion and changes in spat survival, growth rate, and algal ingestion rate. As early as week one, spats were observed to be covered with AMFs, and pseudofeces-AMF aggregates indicated possible ingestion and egestion of AMFs by spats. Further, lower algal ingestion rates by the oyster spats were observed after exposure to high AMF concentration (100 AMF ml^-1) and was accompanied by slowed growth rates across all treatments after two weeks of exposure. Although no mortality occurred and some recovery was observed during the 3rd to 4th weeks, the growth rates of spats exposed to 100 MP mL^-1 remained significantly lower than that of spats in the other treatments and controls across time points, suggesting irreversible effects on oyster fitness after exposure to high AMF concentrations. These observed responses of oyster spats to AMFs could potentially indicate ecotoxicological effects of MPs. While lasting effects were restricted to the highest exposure concentration, continued increases in environmental microplastic contamination could potentially result in exposure levels capable of eliciting comparable biological responses in the future, ultimately, affecting oysters in both the wild and aquaculture setting.

PMID:42636643 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120273

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 24;409:129022. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129022. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Hydraulic conditions in aquaculture environments are rarely static, yet their influence on contaminant dynamics remains poorly understood. This study investigated how water flow alters the bioavailability and toxicity of co-occurring microplastics and lead in grass carp. Fish were exposed to polyamide microplastics (100 μg/L) and lead (50 μg/L) under hydrodynamic stress (2.0 BL/s water velocity). Flow exposure increased lead accumulation in fish blood (0.006 ± 0.001 ppm) and liver (1.853 ± 0.096 mg/kg) compared to still water conditions, suggesting that hydrodynamic stress may enhance the proposed 'Trojan horse' role of microplastics as carriers for lead uptake. Fish exhibited a sharp rise in cumulative mortality at Day 7 reaching 75.0% in the triple exposure group, driven by severe hematological disruption marked by anemia (Hb: 3.9 ± 0.85 g/dL; RBC: 1.65 ± 0.1 × 10⁶/mm³), lymphocytopenia (59.33 ± 1.52%), and elevated inflammatory cytokines. Hepatic antioxidant defenses collapsed under combined stress, with suppressed enzyme activities alongside intensified lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species production (4.66-fold increase in ROS intensity). These findings demonstrate that hydrodynamic forces are not merely physical background variables but active regulators of contaminant bioavailability and toxicity in aquaculture systems. The results highlight a critical need to move beyond single-stressor risk assessments and incorporate realistic hydraulic conditions into aquaculture safety frameworks.

PMID:42637126 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129022

Sci Total Environ. 2026 Aug 24;1050:182250. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.182250. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) contamination poses a growing threat to freshwater ecosystems, particularly in South Asian inland waters. This study presents a field-based comparative investigation of MP distribution and associated biological indicators in urban and rural freshwater ponds of Odisha, India, using Labeo rohita as a representative freshwater species. MPs isolated from water and fish gastrointestinal tracts were characterised using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. MP concentrations were markedly higher at the urban site relative to the rural site, both in water (9330 ± 2520 vs. 1330 ± 580 particles m^-3) and in fish (4.00 ± 1.00 vs. 1.67 ± 0.58 MPs per fish), reflecting the influence of anthropogenic inputs. Fibres were the dominant morphotype across all samples, with a high proportion of particles smaller than 30 μm. Polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP) were the predominant polymers identified. Despite differences in abundance, MP morphotype, colour, and size distributions were statistically comparable between sites (p > 0.05), suggesting shared sources and pervasive dispersal mechanisms. Histopathological examination of intestinal tissues revealed comparatively greater structural irregularities in fish from the urban site, including irregular mucosal folds, localised epithelial thinning, and vascular congestion, features suggestive of early-stage responses to environmental stressors. Additionally, a gut-associated bacterial isolate, Sphingobacterium alimentarium (UR-1), identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (99.07% similarity; GenBank FN908504.1), demonstrated measurable surface-associated interaction with PE, resulting in a statistically significant weight reduction, alongside surface-associated morphological alterations and elemental compositional changes. Collectively, these findings integrate environmental distribution, biological response, and bacterial interaction within a single field-based framework, providing region-specific baseline data for Odisha and contributing to the understanding of MP dynamics and ecological implications in freshwater systems.

PMID:42636685 | DOI:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.182250

Food Res Int. 2026 Oct 31;242(Pt 5):120205. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120205. Epub 2026 Aug 1.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs), as emerging environmental pollutants, have become the focus of global attention due to their widespread presence and potential health risks. Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, MNPs may trigger multiple cellular and molecular toxic responses, including lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, cell membrane rupture, and mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, and induce chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of major chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This paper systematically elaborates on the main sources and routes of exposure to MNPs. It focuses on discussing the potential toxic mechanisms of MNPs, including inducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, triggering inflammation and immune responses, and interfering with the gut microbiota and metabolic balance. Further, by combining existing epidemiological and preclinical studies, this review analyzes the potential association between MNPs exposure and the occurrence and development of cancer. Finally, we summarize the deficiencies of current research, such as methodological limitations, further exploration of mechanisms, and ethical constraints. This paper aims to provide a scientific basis for an in-depth understanding of the health risks of MNPs and the formulation of prevention and control strategies.

PMID:42637357 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120205

Environ Pollut. 2026 Aug 24;409:129014. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129014. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) leachates contain chemically complex mixtures of additives that may adversely affect aquatic primary producers; however, the extent to which polymer identity and additive complexity influence toxicity remains poorly understood. We hypothesised that low-molecular-weight phthalates that are readily released from MPs under controlled leaching conditions serve as indicator compounds of additive release and elicit physiological and metabolic responses in the freshwater microalga, Chlorella sp. MM3. To test this hypothesis, aqueous leachates were prepared from pure (primary) and commercial (secondary) polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) at loading rates of 100 and 1000 mg L^-1. Targeted analysis revealed distinct phthalate profiles among polymer types and between pure and commercial plastics. Exposure to the leachates induced pronounced polymer-dependent responses, with PET and PVC producing greater toxicity than PS. Chlorophyll a declined by up to 47% in pure PET and 42% in commercial PVC, while reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation increased by more than three-fold relative to the controls. Metabolomic analyses identified polymer-specific pathway perturbations, with PET disrupting central carbon metabolism, PS enriching glutathione metabolism, and PVC altering amino acid, nitrogen, glyoxylate, and purine metabolism. Integration of multi-level responses showed that pure PET produced the highest physiological disturbance (PII = 0.82), whereas commercial PET elicited the strongest metabolic response (MII = 1.00). These findings demonstrate that polymer identity and additive complexity jointly determine MP leachate toxicity and provide a mechanistic framework for improving ecological risk assessment of plastic-derived contaminants.

PMID:42637131 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129014

Food Res Int. 2026 Oct 31;242(Pt 5):120278. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120278. Epub 2026 Aug 3.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Microplastic contamination of food products has become an emerging environmental and food safety concern due to the extensive use of plastic packaging materials and the potential for human dietary exposure. However, information regarding the occurrence and characterization of MPs in commonly consumed packaged foods remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence, morphology, and polymer identification of microplastics in selected packed food and beverage products using complementary analytical techniques.

METHODS: Representative samples, including packed milk, water, lentils, carbonated beverages, and hot tea, were processed following standardized laboratory protocols. Recovered particles were characterized using stereomicroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). Quality assurance and control measures included procedural blanks, airborne blanks, and instrumental validation.

RESULTS: Microscopic examination revealed particles exhibiting diverse sizes, shapes, and surface morphologies consistent with microplastics. FTIR, SEM, TEM and Py-GC/MS analyses indicated the probable presence of commonly used polymers, including polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP), with comparatively greater analytical confidence for PS and PC. Airborne blank analysis suggested minimal laboratory background contamination, whereas no particles were observed in procedural blanks.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that packaged food products may represent one potential source of dietary exposure to microplastics. The study highlights the importance of analytical protocols, comprehensive quality assurance procedures, and continued investigation to improve the detection, characterization, and understanding of microplastic contamination in packed food.

PMID:42637392 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120278

Food Res Int. 2026 Oct 31;242(Pt 4):120087. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120087. Epub 2026 Jul 20.

ABSTRACT

The widespread presence of microplastics (MPs) in food products has raised increasing concern, while their accurate identification and quantification remain challenging, particularly for small-sized particles (< 100 μm). Teabags, often containing plastic filter membranes, represent an underestimated source of MPs exposure. In this study, a high-throughput flow cytometry-based method was developed for the rapid detection and quantification of small-sized MPs released from commercial teabags and brewed tea infusions. A counterstaining strategy that combines Calcofluor White and fluorescein isothiocyanate to label natural organic matter, together with Nile Red staining for MPs, effectively reduced background interference and enabled reliable quantification in tea infusions. Specifically, flow cytometric analysis showed that a single teabag released approximately 4.3 × 10⁵ MPs during the first brewing, while secondary steeping markedly reduced particle abundance. Most MPs originated from the filter bag rather than tea leaves. Furthermore, cellular assays using RAW 264.7 macrophages and Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells indicated that teabag-derived particles disrupted the expression of tight junction-associated molecules and induced inflammatory responses, suggesting potential adverse health implications compared with polystyrene microspheres of similar size. Overall, this study provides a rapid and sensitive analytical approach for quantifying small-sized MPs in food matrices, highlights potential gut health risks associated with plastic-containing teabags, and provides valuable insights for assessing MPs exposure and guiding food safety regulations.

PMID:42637422 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120087

Food Res Int. 2026 Oct 31;242(Pt 4):120100. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120100. Epub 2026 Jul 20.

ABSTRACT

This research was designed to identify the levels of microplastics (MP) and phthalate esters (PAE) in canned and frozen packaged fish and to assess the human health risks associated with these pollutants. Analyses were carried out on a total of 25 sample groups, including 10 different canned tuna samples, 9 different packaged seafood products, and 6 different packaging materials. Microplastics were characterized and polymer identification was performed using μ-Raman and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, while PAEs were determined by GC-MS/MS. The obtained data were used to calculate estimated daily intake (EDI), hazard index (HI), hazard quotient (HQ), and cancer risk (CR), and uncertainty was assessed using Monte Carlo simulation. The findings revealed that both microplastic and phthalate exposure were higher in the frozen fish group than in canned products. The highest MP concentrations were recorded in packaged Whiting B (0.73 ± 0.25 items/g) and oil-added canned tuna (0.57 ± 0.15 items/g). Regarding PAEs, while DEHP and DBP were generally prominent, significant peak concentrations of BBP and DNOP were also identified, reaching 1.91 ± 0.01 ppm for BBP in canned tuna with sunflower oil and 1.84 ± 0.01 ppm in packaged whiting. Furthermore, higher exposure was observed in males for most PAEs. HQ and HI values were below 1 (maximum HI: 1.57 × 10^-2 for males consuming frozen seafood), while CR values remained within an acceptable range (4.74 × 10^-7 to 3.49 × 10^-6). In conclusion, health risks related to processed fish consumption appear generally low; however, processing and packaging may contribute to contamination and warrant further investigation.

PMID:42637432 | DOI:10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120100

Microsyst Nanoeng. 2026 Aug 24;12(1):302. doi: 10.1038/s41378-026-01413-y.

ABSTRACT

With the rapid development of the global plastic industry, microplastic pollution has become an increasingly serious environmental concern. However, standardized technologies for convenient, accurate, and real-time microplastic detection are limited. To address this challenge, a microwave resonant sensor with a complete microplastic detection system equipped with a Bluetooth module for remote real-time monitoring of microplastic concentrations was developed. Microplastic concentrations were measured in deionized water containing polyvinyl chloride powder (particle size: 6.5 ± 1 μm), simulated artificial seawater, and real seawater samples. The integration of the microfluidic system mitigated the interference caused by the complex seawater matrix, thereby ensuring stable and reliable microwave-based detection of microplastic concentrations. The system demonstrated high repeatability for predicting the concentration of microplastics in seawater samples. The proposed method demonstrated a recognition rate of over 96% with a tolerance of ±0.01 mg/mL, while maintaining a minimum detection limit of 48.72 ng/mL. To improve the prediction accuracy, a convolutional neural network algorithm was employed to predict microplastic concentrations based on the test results, with the predicted and actual concentrations being highly consistent. Finally, a compact and portable seawater microplastic monitoring system was developed by integrating the microwave sensor with Bluetooth and embedded systems, enabling real-time microplastic concentration monitoring in marine environments.

PMID:42637727 | PMC:PMC13503796 | DOI:10.1038/s41378-026-01413-y

Environ Monit Assess. 2026 Aug 24;198(9):978. doi: 10.1007/s10661-026-15822-z.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic pollution in agricultural soils poses growing environmental risks, yet the retention behavior of different polymer types across contrasting soil textures remains poorly understood. This study compared the retention of polypropylene (PP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics (< 50 μm) in sand, clay, and silt loam soils using a single initial microplastic concentration under a standardized 72 h batch contact condition. Retention was quantified by solution depletion, in which the microplastic mass removed from the aqueous phase was normalized to oven-dry soil mass to obtain the retained amount at 72 h (qₑ). A soil-free control confirmed acceptable procedural recovery (~ 95%). The retained amount at 72 h differed significantly among the six microplastic-soil combinations (one-way ANOVA, p = 0.0001), ranging from 157.14 to 585.71 mg/kg. PVC in silt loam showed the highest retention (585.71 mg/kg), whereas PP in silt loam showed the lowest (157.14 mg/kg), indicating that retention was governed by the combination of polymer type and soil texture rather than by any single soil property. Pearson's correlation analysis did not identify a statistically significant association between retention and organic matter, cation exchange capacity, or clay content (all p > 0.5, n = 6). Scanning electron microscopy provided visual evidence of microplastic attachment to soil surfaces. These findings provide a comparative basis for microplastic retention behavior in agricultural soils and highlight the need for future multi-concentration adsorption isotherm studies to establish mechanistic property-retention relationships.

PMID:42635819 | DOI:10.1007/s10661-026-15822-z

Sci Rep. 2026 Aug 25;16(1):26639. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-67536-4.

ABSTRACT

Microplastic (MP) pollution poses escalating environmental risks, demanding efficient and reproducible tools for morphological characterization of plastic particles. Traditional manual microscopy is labour-intensive, operator-dependent, and poorly suited to large-scale monitoring. This study presents a comparative evaluation of two distinct artificial intelligence paradigms for the analysis of optical microscope images of microplastics. The first paradigm is a domain-specific, multi-task deep learning (DL) classifier based on EfficientNet-B0 with transfer learning, trained on an in-house dataset of approximately 700 annotated microscope images to simultaneously predict microplastic shape/type (five classes), color (10 classes), and surface texture (two classes). The second paradigm employs the Claude Vision API as a zero-shot vision-language model (VLM), augmented with a structured human-in-the-loop (HITL) mechanism allowing domain experts to provide targeted guidance for ambiguous particles. Both systems were evaluated on an identical, independent test set using accuracy, macro-averaged precision, recall, and F1-score. The DL classifier achieved F1-scores of 91.2%, 88.5%, and 85.1% for shape/type, color, and texture classification, respectively. In contrast, the VLM achieved raw F1-scores ranging between 72 and 81% across the evaluated tasks, which improved substantially to approximately 84-89% following expert-guided refinement. These results demonstrate that the trained DL model excels in high-throughput, reproducible screening, while the VLM-HITL system offers enhanced interpretability and flexibility for ambiguous cases. This comparative framework, deployed as a freely accessible web application via Hugging Face Spaces, provides practical insights into the deployment trade-offs between domain-specific and generalist AI approaches for environmental microplastic analysis.

PMID:42637842 | PMC:PMC13503812 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-026-67536-4

J Appl Toxicol. 2026 Aug 23. doi: 10.1002/jat.70368. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The ubiquitous presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) is raising concerns about their impact on the health of humans and other living organisms. Due to its tiny size, this particle can accumulate and circulate in the body after uptake, resulting in a variety of harmful outcomes on the organism, such as increased oxidative stress and induced inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of polystyrene MNPS on the epithelioma paulosum cyrini (EPC) cell line. The results of the MTT assay indicated that 0.2 and 1 μm of MNPs did not cause acute cytotoxicity in the cells after 48 h of exposure; however, at longer term exposure with these particles, cytotoxicity was observed in a dose-dependent manner. The accumulation of both nano- and micro-sized plastics was increased as time-dependent manner on EPC cells. However, they showed strong adherence to the cell surface. The fluorescence intensity as accumulated MNPs for short-term exposure was higher in 1 μm of MNPs than 0.2 μm of MNPs. Short-term incubation with MNPs did not induce oxidative stress, as indicated by the insignificant change in intracellular ROS levels. Notably, MNPs did not significantly impact the expression of stress-related genes in either short- or long-term exposure but altered the expression of some cytokine genes in both instances. About 1 μm of PS particles increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α at both time points and IL1-β after 2 weeks. While both sizes of PS plastics inhibited the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine at long-term incubation, only the larger size altered the expression of this gene at 48 h. These results suggested that long-term exposure to MNPs can decrease EPC cell survival and induce cell inflammation.

PMID:42634011 | DOI:10.1002/jat.70368