Environmental estrogens in surface water and their interaction with microalgae: A review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecotoxicology
• Aquatic Ecology

Background:

• Environmental estrogens (EEs) are endocrine-disrupting compounds with widespread effects on biological systems.
• Harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a significant global threat to surface water ecosystems.
• Microalgae are vital primary producers influencing aquatic ecosystems and potentially interacting with EEs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the distribution and pollution of EEs in global surface waters.
• To investigate the effects of EEs on microalgal growth and toxin production.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of EE impact on microalgae and the role of microalgae in EE degradation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on EE distribution and characteristics.
• Analysis of studies on single and mixed EE effects on microalgae.
• Examination of cellular and molecular mechanisms of EE-microalgae interactions.

Main Results:

• EEs are prevalent in surface waters globally, with varying pollution characteristics.
• EEs can influence microalgal growth and toxin production, with complex effects from single and mixed exposures.
• Microalgae exhibit potential for EE degradation, but mechanisms require further study.

Conclusions:

• EEs represent a significant risk to aquatic ecosystems and human health.
• Understanding EE-microalgae interactions is critical for managing algal blooms and water quality.
• Further research is needed to inform water quality standards for EEs.