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Interactions between bacteria and nano (micro)-sized polystyrene particles by bacterial responses and microscopy
So Yoon Kim1, Yong Jin Kim1, Seung-Woo Lee2
1Department of Microbiology, Pusan National University, 2 Busandaehak-ro 63 Beon-gil, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea.
Chemosphere
|July 7, 2022
Summary
This study shows that polystyrene nanoparticles and microplastics impact bacterial growth and viability. Smaller particles entered cells, while ~1-μm particles most inhibited growth and formed biofilms, affecting microbial communities.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Microorganisms are crucial for biogeochemical cycles and interact with plastic debris.
- These interactions can alter plastic characteristics and influence their environmental fate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of various nano- and microplastic sizes on bacterial growth, viability, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
- To understand the interaction mechanisms between model bacteria (Escherichia coli and Bacillus sp.) and polystyrene (PS) particles.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of E. coli and Bacillus sp. to PS particles (60-2260 nm) at 100 mg/L.
- Measurement of bacterial growth, viability, and ROS generation.
- Microscopic observation of particle-cell interactions and biofilm formation.
Main Results:
- Polystyrene nanoparticles and microplastics inhibited bacterial growth and viability, with effects varying by particle size.
- 60-nm PS particles entered cells and increased ROS, while 1040-nm particles showed the highest growth inhibition.
- Bacteria formed microplastic-biofilm complexes with extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) secretion in response to ~1-μm PS particles.
Conclusions:
- The size of polystyrene nanoparticles and microplastics significantly influences their impact on bacterial physiology and behavior.
- Interactions can lead to growth inhibition, ROS generation, and biofilm formation, with implications for microbial communities in plastic-polluted environments.
