Beta-blockers in the environment: part I. Mobility and hydrolysis study
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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

A Semi-High-Throughput Adaptation of the NADH-Coupled ATPase Assay for Screening Small Molecule Inhibitors
Published on: August 17, 2019
Joanna Maszkowska1, Stefan Stolte2, Jolanta Kumirska1
1Department of Environmental Analysis, Institute for Environmental and Human Health Protection, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, ul. Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland.
Abstract:
Beta-blockers (BB) are one of the most widely used pharmaceuticals whose presence in different environmental compartments has already been proven in concentrations of even up to a few μg L(-1). However, our knowledge of their fate in the environment is still scarce. To obtain a better understanding on the environmental behavior of three selected BB comprehensive laboratory experiments assessing their mobility and hydrolytic stability has been conducted. Propranolol, metoprolol and nadolol--the most commonly consumed and detected in environmental samples--were selected as representatives of this group of pharmaceuticals. The objectives of our research were: (i) evaluation of the sorption potential and an explanation of the sorption mechanisms of these compounds onto soil and clay mineral (kaolinite); and (ii) investigation of the hydrolytic stability of these BB according to OECD 111. This comprehensive study supports the Environmental Risk Assessment of these pharmaceuticals.
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