RESUMO
The wide variation of nanomaterial (NM) characters (size, shape, and properties) and the related impacts on living organisms make it virtually impossible to assess their safety; the need for modeling has been urged for long. We here investigate the custom-designed 1-10% Fe-doped CuO NM library. Effects were assessed using the soil ecotoxicology model Enchytraeus crypticus (Oligochaeta) in the standard 21 days plus its extension (49 days). Results showed that 10%Fe-CuO was the most toxic (21 days reproduction EC50 = 650 mg NM/kg soil) and Fe3O4 NM was the least toxic (no effects up to 3200 mg NM/kg soil). All other NMs caused similar effects to E. crypticus (21 days reproduction EC50 ranging from 875 to 1923 mg NM/kg soil, with overlapping confidence intervals). Aiming to identify the key NM characteristics responsible for the toxicity, machine learning (ML) modeling was used to analyze the large data set [9 NMs, 68 descriptors, 6 concentrations, 2 exposure times (21 and 49 days), 2 endpoints (survival and reproduction)]. ML allowed us to separate experimental related parameters (e.g., zeta potential) from particle-specific descriptors (e.g., force vectors) for the best identification of important descriptors. We observed that concentration-dependent descriptors (environmental parameters, e.g., zeta potential) were the most important under standard test duration (21 day) but not for longer exposure (closer representation of real-world conditions). In the longer exposure (49 days), the particle-specific descriptors were more important than the concentration-dependent parameters. The longer-term exposure showed that the steepness of the concentration-response decreased with an increased Fe content in the NMs. Longer-term exposure should be a requirement in the hazard assessment of NMs in addition to the standard in OECD guidelines for chemicals. The progress toward ML analysis is desirable given its need for such large data sets and significant power to link NM descriptors to effects in animals. This is beyond the current univariate and concentration-response modeling analysis.
Assuntos
Cobre , Ferro , Aprendizado de Máquina , Oligoquetos , Cobre/química , Cobre/toxicidade , Animais , Ferro/química , Ferro/toxicidade , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Nanoestruturas/química , Nanoestruturas/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/químicaRESUMO
To reveal the toxicological mechanisms of pesticide mixtures on soil organisms, this study concentrated on evaluating enzymatic activity and gene expression changes in the earthworm Eisenia fetida (Savigny 1826). Despite being frequently exposed to multiple pesticides, including the common combination of abamectin (ABA) and carbendazim (CAR), environmental organisms have primarily been studied for the effects of individual pesticides. Acute toxicity results exhibited that the combination of ABA and CAR caused a synergistic impact on E. fetida. The levels of MDA, ROS, T-SOD, and caspase3 demonstrated a significant increase across most individual and combined groups, indicating the induction of oxidative stress and cell death. Additionally, the expression of three genes (hsp70, gst, and crt) exhibited a significant decrease following exposure to individual pesticides and their combinations, pointing toward cellular damage and impaired detoxification function. In contrast, a noteworthy increase in ann expression was observed after exposure to both individual pesticides and their mixtures, suggesting the stimulation of reproductive capacity in E. fetida. The present findings contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of the potential toxicity mechanisms of the ABA and CAR mixture, specifically on oxidative stress, cell death, detoxification dysfunction, and reproductive capacity in earthworms. Collectively, these data offered valuable toxicological insights into the combined effects of pesticides on soil organisms, enhancing our understanding of the underlying risks associated with the coexistence of different pesticides in natural soil environments.
Assuntos
Benzimidazóis , Carbamatos , Ivermectina , Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Ivermectina/análogos & derivados , Ivermectina/toxicidade , Carbamatos/toxicidade , Benzimidazóis/toxicidade , Solo/química , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Estresse Oxidativo , Praguicidas/toxicidadeRESUMO
Naphthalene (NAP) was frequently detected in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)-contaminated soil, and its residues may pose an eco-toxicological threat to soil organisms. The toxic effects of NAP were closely tied to phenolic and quinone metabolites in biological metabolism. However, the present knowledge concerning the eco-toxicological impacts of NAP metabolites at the animal level is scanty. Here, we assessed the differences in the eco-toxicological responses of Eisenia fetida (E. fetida) in NAP, 1-naphthol (1-NAO) or 1,4-naphthoquinone (1,4-NQ) contaminated soils. NAP, 1-NAO, and 1,4-NQ exposure triggered the onset of oxidative stress as evidenced by the destruction of the antioxidant enzyme system. The lipid peroxidation and DNA oxidative damage levels induced by 1-NAO and 1,4-NQ were higher than those of NAP. The elevation of DNA damage varied considerably depending on differences in oxidative stress and the direct mode of action of NAP or its metabolites with DNA. All three toxicants induced different degrees of physiological damage to the body wall, but only 1, 4-NQ caused the shedding of intestinal epithelial cells. The integrated biomarker response for different exposure times illustrated that the comprehensive toxicity at the animal level was 1,4-NQ > 1-NAO > NAP, and the time-dependent trends of oxidative stress responses induced by the three toxicants were similar. At the initial stage, the antioxidant system of E. fetida responded positively to the provocation, but the ability of E. fetida to resist stimulation decreased with the prolongation of time resulting in provocation oxidative damage. This study would provide new insights into the toxicological effects and biohazard of PAHs on soil animals.
Assuntos
Naftalenos , Oligoquetos , Estresse Oxidativo , Poluentes do Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Naftalenos/toxicidade , Solo/química , Dano ao DNA , Hidrocarbonetos Policíclicos Aromáticos/toxicidade , Peroxidação de Lipídeos/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
Recent research has highlighted the ecological risk posed by microplastics (MPs) from mulching film and heavy metals to soil organisms. However, most studies overlooked real environmental levels of MPs and heavy metals. To address this gap, pristine and aged polyethylene (PE) mulching film-derived MPs (PMPs, 500 mg/kg; AMPs, 500 mg/kg) were combined with cadmium (Cd, 0.5 mg/kg) to assess the acute toxicity to earthworms and investigate associated molecular mechanisms (oxidative stress, osmoregulation pressure, gut microbiota, and metabolic responses) at environmentally relevant concentrations. Compared to Cd alone and Cd + PMPs treatments (11.15 ± 4.19 items/g), Cd + AMPs treatment resulted in higher MPs bioaccumulation (23.73 ± 13.14 items/g), more severe tissue lesions, and increased cell membrane osmotic pressure in earthworms' intestines. Cd + AMPs induced neurotoxicity through elevated levels of glutamate and acetylcholinesterase. Earthworm intestines (0.98 ± 0.49 to 3.33 ± 0.37 mg/kg) exhibited significantly higher Cd content than soils (0.19 ± 0.01 to 0.51 ± 0.06 mg/kg) and casts (0.15 ± 0.01 to 0.25 ± 0.05 mg/kg), indicating PE-MPs facilitated Cd transport in earthworms' bodies. Metabolomic analysis showed Cd + AMPs exposure depleted energy and nucleotide metabolites, disrupted cell homeostasis more profoundly than Cd and Cd + PMPs treatments. Overall, co-exposure to AMPs + Cd induced more severe neurotoxicity and disruption of homeostasis in earthworm than Cd and PMPs + Cd treatments. Our study, using Cd and MPs with environmental relevance, underscores MPs' role in amplifying Cd accumulation and toxicity in earthworms.
Assuntos
Cádmio , Homeostase , Microplásticos , Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Cádmio/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Microplásticos/toxicidade , Homeostase/efeitos dos fármacos , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Microbioma Gastrointestinal/efeitos dos fármacos , Agricultura , Polietileno/toxicidadeRESUMO
Cadmium (Cd) pollution poses significant threats to soil organisms and human health by contaminating the food chain. This study aimed to assess the impact of various concentrations (50, 250, and 500 mg·kg-1) of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), bulk ZnO, and ZnSO4 on morphological changes and toxic effects of Cd in the presence of earthworms and spinach. The results showed that Zn application markedly improved spinach growth parameters (such as fresh weight, plant height, root length, and root-specific surface area) and root morphology while significantly reducing Cd concentration and Cd bioconcentration factors (BCF-Cd) in spinach and earthworms, with ZnO NPs exhibiting the most pronounced effects. Earthworm, spinach root, and shoot Cd concentration decreased by 82.3 %, 77.0 %, and 75.6 %, respectively, compared to CK. Sequential-step extraction (BCR) analysis revealed a shift in soil Cd from stable to available forms, consistent with the available Cd (DTPA-Cd) results. All Zn treatments significantly reduced Cd accumulation, alleviated Cd-induced stress, and promoted spinach growth, with ZnO NPs demonstrating the highest Cd reduction and Zn bioaugmentation efficiencies compared to bulk ZnO and ZnSO4 at equivalent concentrations. Therefore, ZnO NPs offer a safer and more effective option for agricultural production and soil heavy metal pollution management than other Zn fertilizers.
Assuntos
Cádmio , Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Spinacia oleracea , Óxido de Zinco , Spinacia oleracea/efeitos dos fármacos , Spinacia oleracea/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Spinacia oleracea/metabolismo , Cádmio/toxicidade , Animais , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/metabolismo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Oligoquetos/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Óxido de Zinco/toxicidade , Óxido de Zinco/química , Biofortificação , Zinco/toxicidade , Sulfato de Zinco/toxicidade , Nanopartículas Metálicas/toxicidade , Nanopartículas Metálicas/química , Solo/química , Raízes de Plantas/efeitos dos fármacos , Raízes de Plantas/metabolismo , Raízes de Plantas/crescimento & desenvolvimentoRESUMO
Soil thallium (Tl) contamination is of major public concern but little is known about soil Tl ecological toxicity or potential ecological remediation strategies. Here, two soil animal species with different ecological niches, Folsomia candida and Enchytraeus crypticus, were used to test Tl toxicity and modification by exogenous organic materials (i.e. maize straw and biochar). The endpoints of Tl ecotoxicity to F. candida and E. crypticus were studied at two biological levels, i.e., the individual (body Tl concentrations) and the population (survival, reproduction, and growth). Thallium concentrations in F. candida and E. crypticus increased with increasing soil Tl concentration, and their survival and reproduction rates decreased with increasing soil Tl concentration. The LC50 value of Tl effects on F. candida mortality (28 d) was 24.0 mg kg-1 and the EC50 value of reproduction inhibition was 6.51 mg kg-1. The corresponding values were 4.15 mg kg-1 and 2.31 mg kg-1 respectively for E. crypticus showing higher sensitivity to soil Tl than F. candida. These effective values are comparable to or much lower than the environmental Tl concentrations in field soils, suggesting high potential ecological risk. Both biochar and straw can decrease animal body Tl concentrations in different ways, i.e. reducing Tl availability or offering clean food sources, and addition of exogenous organic materials clearly mitigated Tl ecotoxicity in highly polluted soil. The results highlight the potential Tl ecological risk to soil animals and the potential use of organic materials to control the toxicity.
Assuntos
Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Tálio , Animais , Tálio/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Solo/química , Carvão Vegetal , Zea maysRESUMO
Copper can accumulate in agricultural topsoil through the use of Cu-based fungicides, which may harm soil organisms such as earthworms. This study aimed at reviewing the effects of copper on earthworms at different levels of biological organization, and to determine critical values of copper toxicity to earthworms using a meta-analysis and accounting for lethal and sub-lethal effects and different earthworm species and exposure conditions. Endpoints at the sub-individual level were more sensitive than at higher levels of organization. At the individual level, the most sensitive endpoints were reproduction and growth (hatching success, hatchling growth). Hormetic growth was clearly recognized at copper concentrations less than 80 mg kg-1 in dry soil. However, effects at the sub-individual level already occurred at lower concentrations. Considering all the exposure conditions, the calculated weighted means were 113 mg Cu kg-1 dry soil (95% CI -356; 582) for the LC50 (lethal concentration for 50% of the exposed individuals), 94.6 mg Cu kg-1 dry soil (95% CI 14.0; 175) for the EC50 reproduction, and 144 mg Cu kg-1 dry soil (95% CI -12.6; 301) for the EC50 growth or weight change. When accounting for the origin of the soil, earthworms were five times more sensitive to copper (LC50) in natural than in artificial soils. The different factors affecting Cu toxicity to earthworms explain the high variability of these values, making it difficult to derive thresholds. However, considering the potential negative effects of copper on earthworms, attention should be given to the more sustainable use of human-contributed copper in agricultural soils.
Assuntos
Cobre , Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Oligoquetos/fisiologia , Animais , Cobre/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Reprodução/efeitos dos fármacos , Solo/química , Fungicidas Industriais/toxicidadeRESUMO
Thallium (Tl), though not essential for biological systems, is widely used in industrial activities, resulting in soil pollution and adverse effects on soil biota. Systematic toxicological studies on Tl, especially concerning soil organisms, are relatively rare. This research evaluates the toxic effects of Tl on earthworms by measuring oxidative stress biomarkers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and by assessing the expression of functional genes, such as heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), metallothionein (MT), and annetocin (ANN). Additionally, this study employs the Biomarker Response Index (BRI) and two-way ANOVA to comprehensively assess the cumulative toxicity of Tl in earthworms. The findings indicate that Tl exposure significantly exacerbates oxidative stress and cellular damage in earthworms, particularly under conditions of high concentration and prolonged exposure. BRI results demonstrate a continuous decline in the physiological state of earthworms with increasing Tl concentration and exposure duration. Two-way ANOVA reveals significant dose-responsive increases in SOD and CAT activities, as well as in ANN gene expression. Apart from GST activity, other biomarkers significantly increased over time, and the changes in biomarkers such as SOD, CAT, MDA, and 8-OHdG were significantly influenced by dose and time. LSD post hoc tests show significant effects of dose, time, and their interactions on all biomarkers except for GST. These findings are valuable for gaining a deeper understanding of the ecological risks of Tl in soil environments and its potential threats to soil biota, aiding in the management of ecological risks associated with Tl-contaminated soils.
Assuntos
Biomarcadores , Oligoquetos , Estresse Oxidativo , Poluentes do Solo , Tálio , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Animais , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Biomarcadores/metabolismo , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Tálio/toxicidade , Glutationa Transferase/metabolismo , Glutationa Transferase/genética , Superóxido Dismutase/metabolismo , Monitoramento Ambiental/métodos , Malondialdeído/metabolismo , Metalotioneína/metabolismo , Metalotioneína/genética , Catalase/metabolismoRESUMO
INTRODUCTION: The demand for red blood cells (RBCs) is on the rise due to the increasing diagnosis of chronic diseases such as sickle cell anemia, malaria, and thalassemia. Despite many commercial attempts, there are no U.S. FDA-approved artificial RBCs for use in humans. Existing RBC substitutes have employed various strategies to transport oxygen, extend the circulation time, and reduce organ toxicity, but none have replicated the natural protective mechanisms of RBCs, which prevent hemoglobin (Hb) dimerization and heme iron oxidation. Lumbricus terrestris (earthworm) erythrocruorin (LtEc) is a naturally occurring extracellular hemoglobin (Hb) with promising attributes: large molecular diameter (30 nm), high molecular weight (3.6 MDa), low auto-oxidation rate, and limited nitric oxide-scavenging properties. These characteristics make LtEc an ideal candidate as an RBC substitute. However, LtEc has a significant drawback, its short circulatory half-life. To address this issue, we explored thiol-mediated surface PEGylation of LtEc (PEG-LtEc) at varying polyethylene glycol (PEG) surface coverages. Increasing PEG surface coverage beyond 40% destabilizes LtEc into smaller subunits that are 1/12th the size of LtEc. Therefore, we evaluated two PEG surface coverage options: PEG-LtEc-0.2 (20% PEGylation) and PEG-LtEc-1.0 (100% PEGylation). METHODS: We conducted experiments using golden Syrian hamsters with dorsal window chambers and catheters to assess the efficacy of these solutions. We measured microvascular parameters, organ function, cerebral blood flow, circulation time, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and blood gases and performed histology to screen for toxicity. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that both PEG-LtEc molecules offer significant benefits in restoring microvascular parameters, organ function, cerebral blood flow, and circulation time compared to LtEc alone. Notably, PEG-LtEc-1.0 showed superior microvascular perfusion, although it exhibited a higher rate of auto-oxidation compared to PEG-LtEc-0.2. These results underscore the advantages of PEGylation in terms of tissue perfusion and organ health while highlighting its limitations.
Assuntos
Hemoglobinas , Microcirculação , Oligoquetos , Oxirredução , Polietilenoglicóis , Animais , Polietilenoglicóis/química , Polietilenoglicóis/farmacologia , Microcirculação/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/química , Hemoglobinas/química , Hemoglobinas/metabolismo , Hemoglobinas/farmacologia , Teste de Materiais , Materiais Biocompatíveis/química , Materiais Biocompatíveis/farmacologia , Tamanho da PartículaRESUMO
This study investigated the combined effects of rockwool, a novel seedling substrate, and tricyclazole (TCA) on the bioavailability of TCA to Eisenia fetida. The single addition of rockwool and TCA alone to the soil inhibited the growth of E. fetida. A high concentration (300 mg·L-1) of TCA significantly decreased the biomass of E. fetida. The addition of 20-mesh rockwool reduced this effect on earthworm biomass by decreasing the soil TCA through adsorption, effectively mitigating TCA bioaccumulation in earthworms. A mechanistic analysis showed that the Mg-O functional group on the rockwool surface combined with the CC functional group in TCA to generate Mg-O-C, and the adsorption process was dominated by chemisorption. Toxicology experiments demonstrated that malondialdehyde and cellulase could be used as biomarkers of inhibitory effects of combined rockwool and TCA in soil on E. fetida. Macrogenomic analyses revealed that small particle sizes and high concentrations of rockwool caused co-stress effects on earthworms when TCA was present. When the particle size of rockwool increased, the toxic effect of TCA on earthworms instead decreased at higher rockwool concentrations. Therefore, in practical agricultural production, the particle size of rockwool can be controlled to realize the adsorption of TCA and reduce the toxic effects of TCA and rockwool on earthworms.
Assuntos
Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Solo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Animais , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/metabolismo , Solo/química , Tiazóis/toxicidade , Adsorção , BiomassaRESUMO
Plastic contamination in agricultural soils has become increasingly evident. Plastic mulching films are widely used in agricultural practices. However, the increased use of biodegradable plastics has, to some extent, replaced their non-degradable counterparts. The fragmentation of plastics generates microplastics (MPs), posing risk to soil functions and organisms. In this study the effects of low-density polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate biodegradable microplastics (PBAT-BD-MP) originating from mulching films on the earthworm Eisenia andrei were studied. The earthworms were exposed to seven concentrations (0, 0.005, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 5 % w/w) based on environmentally relevant levels and worst-case scenarios on soil contamination. Survival, growth, reproduction, and biomarkers for oxidative stress [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione (GSH), and lipid peroxidation (LPO)] were analysed. Additionally, the Integrated Biomarker Response Index (IBR) was calculated to assess the overall oxidative stress status of the earthworms. Results showed that PE-MP exposure slightly decreased the biomass of the earthworms towards higher concentrations, whereas PBAT-BD-MPs induced growth at lower concentrations. MPs did not have a significant effect on Eisenia andrei reproduction; however, a slight negative trend was observed in juvenile production with increasing PE-MP concentrations. Both PE-MP and PBAT-BD-MP affected antioxidant system, PE-MPs with changes in CAT and GR levels and PBAT-BD-MPs inducing effects on SOD and LPO levels. Additionally, both MPs exhibited effects on soil parameters, resulting in increased soil pH and water-holding capacity at 5 % concentration. Changes in soil parameters can further affect soil organisms such as earthworms. This study provides understanding of the ecotoxicological effects of conventional and biodegradable microplastics on the earthworm Eisenia andrei. It also shows that MP particles of both conventional and biodegradable mulching films induce oxidative stress, considered as an early-warning indicator for adverse ecological effects, in environmentally relevant concentrations.
Assuntos
Microplásticos , Oligoquetos , Estresse Oxidativo , Reprodução , Poluentes do Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/fisiologia , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Microplásticos/toxicidade , Reprodução/efeitos dos fármacos , Glutationa Transferase/metabolismo , Superóxido Dismutase/metabolismo , Catalase/metabolismo , Biomarcadores/metabolismo , Plásticos Biodegradáveis , Peroxidação de Lipídeos/efeitos dos fármacos , Polietileno/toxicidadeRESUMO
Biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) mulch has been developed to replace conventional polyethylene (PE) mulch in agriculture as a response to growing concerns about recalcitrant plastic pollution and the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in soil. Cadmium is a significant soil pollutant in China. MPs have been shown to adsorb metals. In this study the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris was exposed to either Cd (1.0-100â¯mg / kg) or MPs (PE and PLA, 0.1-3â¯% w / w), or a combination of the two, for 28 days. Cd bioavailability significantly decreased in the presence of MPs. In particular, at the end of the experiment, PLA treatments had lower measured Cd concentrations in both earthworms (2.127-29.24â¯mg / kg) and pore water (below detection limits - 0.1384â¯mg /L) relative to PE treatments (2.720-33.77â¯mg / kg and below detection limits - 0.2489â¯mg / L). In our adsorption experiment PLA MPs adsorbed significantly more Cd than PE MPs with maximum adsorption capacities of 126.0 and 23.2â¯mg / kg respectively. These results suggest that the PLA MPs reduce earthworm exposure to Cd relative to PE by removing it from solution and reducing its bioavailability.
Assuntos
Cádmio , Microplásticos , Oligoquetos , Poliésteres , Polietileno , Poluentes do Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Cádmio/toxicidade , Poliésteres/química , Microplásticos/toxicidade , Adsorção , Bioacumulação , China , Disponibilidade Biológica , Solo/químicaRESUMO
Heavy metal pollution is a significant environmental concern with detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health, and traditional remediation methods may be costly, energy-intensive, or have limited effectiveness. The current study aims were to investigate the impact of heavy metal toxicity in Eisenia fetida, the growth, reproductive outcomes, and their role in soil remediation. Various concentrations (ranging from 0 to 640 mg per kg of soil) of each heavy metal were incorporated into artificially prepared soil, and vermi-remediation was conducted over a period of 60 days. The study examined the effects of heavy metals on the growth and reproductive capabilities of E. fetida, as well as their impact on the organism through techniques such as FTIR, histology, and comet assay. Atomic absorption spectrometry demonstrated a significant (P < 0.000) reduction in heavy metal concentrations in the soil as a result of E. fetida activity. The order of heavy metal accumulation by E. fetida was found to be Cr > Cd > Pb. Histological analysis revealed a consistent decline in the organism's body condition with increasing concentrations of heavy metals. However, comet assay results indicated that the tested levels of heavy metals did not induce DNA damage in E. fetida. FTIR analysis revealed various functional group peaks, including N-H and O-H groups, CH2 asymmetric stretching, amide I and amide II, C-H bend, carboxylate group, C-H stretch, C-O stretching of sulfoxides, carbohydrates/polysaccharides, disulfide groups, and nitro compounds, with minor shifts indicating the binding or accumulation of heavy metals within E. fetida. Despite heavy metal exposure, no significant detrimental effects were observed, highlighting the potential of E. fetida for sustainable soil remediation. Vermi-remediation with E. fetida represents a novel, sustainable, and cutting-edge technology in environmental cleanup. This study found that E. fetida can serve as a natural and sustainable method for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soils, promising a healthier future for soil.
Assuntos
Recuperação e Remediação Ambiental , Metais Pesados , Oligoquetos , Reprodução , Poluentes do Solo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Metais Pesados/toxicidade , Animais , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Reprodução/efeitos dos fármacos , Recuperação e Remediação Ambiental/métodos , Ensaio Cometa , Espectroscopia de Infravermelho com Transformada de Fourier , Dano ao DNA , Solo/químicaRESUMO
In this study, four ecotoxicological tests on Vibrio fischeri bacteria, Sinapis alba L. (white mustard), Daphnia magna S. (daphnia's) and earthworms were performed for three types of aqueous slag (ladle, blast furnace and converter) leachates with two-grain sizes (<4 mm, <10 mm). Concentrations of toxic elements and concentrations of Cr(VI), Ca, Na, Al, and other ions were determined. The raw slags were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRFS), and major substances were determined by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The aqueous slag leachates passed ecotoxicological tests and met the required criteria, showing no toxicity to Vibrio fischeri and complying with white mustard test criteria. According to the results of the ecotoxicity tests with daphnia, the blast furnace slag samples were not ecotoxic, while two other slag samples were found to be entirely compliant. Characterization of the slags showed that the effect of element/ion leachability and slag grain size is essential. Biplot principal component analysis (PCA) showed that grain size does not significantly affect the separation of individuals on the plane. A positive correlation on toxicity was found with pH, conductivity, calcium content, dissolved content, salinity and fluoride concentration, whereas a negative correlation was found with magnesium concentration, dissolved organic carbon and potassium concentration. The effective concentration at 50% inhibition (EC50) value for Vibrio fischeri correlated with the first dimension of bivariate assessment. In summary, it was found that the investigated slags can be effectively reused as they comply with regulations and do not endanger the environment.
Assuntos
Aliivibrio fischeri , Daphnia , Ecotoxicologia , Daphnia/efeitos dos fármacos , Animais , Aliivibrio fischeri/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Poluentes Químicos da Água/toxicidade , Poluentes Químicos da Água/análise , Poluentes Químicos da Água/química , Testes de Toxicidade , Sinapis/efeitos dos fármacos , Sinapis/químicaRESUMO
The extensive application of pesticides and antibiotics in agricultural production makes it possible for them to coexist in farmland, and the interaction of the two pollutants can lead to changes in environmental behavior and toxicity, creating uncertainty risks to soil and soil organisms. In this study, we explored the environmental behavior and the effects of earthworms under co-exposure to amoxicillin and boscalid and further explored the accumulation and toxic effects on earthworms. The results showed that amoxicillin increased the adsorption of boscalid in soil and inhibited its degradation. In addition, we noticed that the co-exposure of amoxicillin and boscalid caused intestinal barrier damage, which increased the bioaccumulation of earthworms for boscalid and led to more severe oxidative stress and metabolic disorders in earthworms. In summary, our findings indicate that amoxicillin can increase the ecological risk of boscalid in the environment and imply that the encounter between antibiotics and pesticides in the environment can amplify the toxic effects of pesticides, which provides new insights into the ecological risks of antibiotics.
Assuntos
Amoxicilina , Compostos de Bifenilo , Niacinamida , Oligoquetos , Animais , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Amoxicilina/toxicidade , Amoxicilina/farmacologia , Niacinamida/farmacologia , Niacinamida/toxicidade , Niacinamida/análogos & derivados , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Antibacterianos/toxicidade , Antibacterianos/farmacologia , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
Microplastic (MP) pollution constitutes an emerging type of pollution threatening both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The impact on aquatic ecosystems has been extensively studied, but the effect on terrestrial ecosystems and their inhabitants is mostly underexplored. In this study, we explored the effect of MP pollution on gut bacterial microbiome of endogeic (Aporrectodea caliginosa) and anecic (Lumbricus terrestris) earthworms. The experiments were performed in sandy soil with 0.2% of low-density polyethylene MPs (LDPE MPs). We observed that the endogeic earthworms had 100% survival, while anecic earthworms survived 25 days in the control (i.e. in absence of MPs) and 21 days in the treatment with LDPE MPs. The main driver of shifts in the diversity and composition of the bacterial communities in the gut of tested earthworms was the lifestyle of the worms, followed by the presence of MPs. The bacterial microbiome diversity was significantly different among the two types of earthworms, and the highest bacterial diversity was found in the gut of the endogeic earthworms. The effect of MPs on gut bacterial microbiome was clearly observed in the changes in the relative abundance of several phyla and families of the bacterial communities in both types of earthworms, although it was most evident in the anecic earthworms. The Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes were the main groups enhanced in the MP treatments, suggesting enrichment of the bacterial communities with potential plastic degraders.
Assuntos
Microbioma Gastrointestinal , Microplásticos , Oligoquetos , Oligoquetos/microbiologia , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Animais , Microbioma Gastrointestinal/efeitos dos fármacos , Microplásticos/toxicidade , Bactérias/classificação , Bactérias/efeitos dos fármacos , Bactérias/isolamento & purificação , Bactérias/genética , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Microbiologia do SoloRESUMO
In fact, less than 1% of applied pesticides reach their target pests, while the remainder pollute the neighboring environment and adversely impact human health as well as non-target organisms in agricultural ecosystem. Pesticides can contribute to the loss of agrobiodiversity, which are essential to maintaining the agro-ecosystem's structure and functioning in order to produce and secure enough food. This review article examines the negative effects of pesticides on non-target invertebrates including earthworms, honeybees, predators, and parasitoids. It also highlights areas where further research is needed to address unresolved issues related to pesticide exposure, aiming to improve conservation efforts for these crucial species. These organisms play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning, such as soil health, pollination, and pest control. Both lethal and sub-lethal effects of pesticides on the selected non-target invertebrates were discussed. Pesticides affect DNA integrity, enzyme activity, growth, behavior, and reproduction of earthworms even at low concentrations. Pesticides could also induce a reduction in individual survival, disruption in learning performance and memory, as well as a change in the foraging behavior of honeybees. Additionally, pesticides adversely affect population growth indices, reproduction, development, longevity, and consumption of predators and parasitoids. As a result, pesticides must pass adequate ecotoxicological risk assessment to be enlisted by regulatory authorities. Therefore, it is important to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that minimize pesticide use and promote the conservation of beneficial organisms in order to maintain agrobiodiversity and sustainable agricultural systems. Furthermore, adopting precision agriculture and organic farming lessen these negative effects as well.less than.
Assuntos
Agricultura , Ecossistema , Invertebrados , Praguicidas , Animais , Praguicidas/toxicidade , Invertebrados/efeitos dos fármacos , Abelhas/efeitos dos fármacos , Abelhas/fisiologia , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
The current research investigates individual and combined toxicity effects of nickel (Ni) and imidacloprid (IMI) on earthworm species Eisenia fetida fetida. Employing standardized toxicity parameters, we assessed the impact of environmentally relevant concentrations (ERC) of Ni, IMI, and their mixtures on key biomarkers and reproductive fitness of earthworms. Our findings reveal concentration-dependent responses with discernible adverse effects on physiological parameters. The ERC obtained for Ni was 0.095 ppm, and for imidacloprid was 0.01 ppm. Two concentrations (ERC and 1/5th) of both toxicants (individually and in combinations) were further given for 14 days, and parameters like avoidance behaviour, antioxidants, histology, and metabolomic profile were observed. The behaviour of earthworms was noted, where at 24-48 h, it was found to be in control soil, while later, at 72-96 h, they migrated to toxicants-treated soil. Levels of antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, ascorbic acid), lipid peroxidation, and lactate dehydrogenase were elevated in the testis, spermatheca, ovary, and prostate gland in a high concentration of Ni + IMI. Histological studies showed more vacuolization and disruption of epithelium that was increased in the prostate gland of the Ni + IMI high group, decreased number of spermatids, and damaged cell architecture was noted in testis and spermatheca of the Ni + IMI high group. The highest number of metabolites was found in Ni exposed group (181), followed by IMI (131) and Control (125). Thus, this study sheds light on the ecotoxicological effects of combinational exposure of these contaminants on an essential soil-dwelling organism, where IMI was more toxic than Ni, and both toxicants decreased earthworm reproductive fecundity.
Assuntos
Neonicotinoides , Níquel , Nitrocompostos , Oligoquetos , Reprodução , Poluentes do Solo , Animais , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Neonicotinoides/toxicidade , Níquel/toxicidade , Nitrocompostos/toxicidade , Reprodução/efeitos dos fármacos , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Masculino , Feminino , Inseticidas/toxicidade , Peroxidação de Lipídeos/efeitos dos fármacos , Antioxidantes/metabolismo , Biomarcadores/metabolismo , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
Four different end-of-life options for disposable bioplastic cups were investigated and compared based on their environmental implications. Two products with distinct polymeric composition were tested simulating the following scenarios at laboratory scale: i) industrial composting (180 days at 58 °C); ii) anaerobic digestion followed by industrial composting (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 58 °C); iii) anaerobic digestion followed by direct digestate use on soil for agricultural purposes (45 days at 55 °C and 180 days at 25 °C); iv) uncontrolled release into a soil environment (180 days at 25 °C). Ecotoxicity tests were run at the end of each experiment to investigate the effects of the materials on three main groups of terrestrial model organisms: plants, earthworms and nitrifying bacteria. Complete biodegradation of the cups was observed in 180 days in the scenarios involving composting environment. A low degree of biodegradation (22.9 ± 4.5%) of the digestates in soil was observed, warning for a potential micro-bioplastics discharge into the environment. No degradation was observed for the cups in soil during the same testing period. Ecotoxicity tests revealed a negative effect on plants biomass growth across all samples, which was 17-30% lower compared to the blank sample. The experimental campaign highlighted the need for a systematic assessment of controlled treatment of bioplastics, as well as the need for a harmonized legislative framework.
Assuntos
Biodegradação Ambiental , Compostagem , Oligoquetos , Poluentes do Solo , Solo , Oligoquetos/efeitos dos fármacos , Solo/química , Animais , Poluentes do Solo/toxicidade , Poluentes do Solo/análise , Plásticos Biodegradáveis/química , Plásticos Biodegradáveis/toxicidade , Plantas/efeitos dos fármacos , EcotoxicologiaRESUMO
Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) are common nanomaterials that may be released into the environment, affecting the toxicity of other contaminants. Atrazine (ATZ) is a commonly used herbicide that can harm organisms due to its persistence and bioaccumulation in the environment. Although the toxicity of ATZ to earthworms is well-documented, the risk of co-exposure with NiO-NPs increases as more nanoparticles accumulate in the soil. In this study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of NiO-NPs on the accumulation of ATZ in earthworms. The results showed that after day 21, the antioxidant system of the cells under ATZ treatment alone was adversely affected, with ROS content 36.05 % higher than that of the control (CK) group. However, the addition of NiO-NPs reduced the ROS contents in the earthworms by 0.6 %- 32.3 %. Moreover, analysis of earthworm intestinal sections indicates that NiO-NPs mitigated cellular and tissue damage caused by ATZ. High-throughput sequencing revealed that NiO-NPs in earthworm intestines increased the abundance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aeromonas aeruginosa. Additionally, the enhanced function of the ABC transport system in the gut resulted in lower accumulation of ATZ in earthworms. In summary, NiO-NPs can reduce the accumulation and thus the toxicity of ATZ in earthworms. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the effects of NiO-NPs on co-existing pollutants.