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Plastisphere showing unique microbiome and resistome different from activated sludge
Qihao Li1, Li Tian1, Xunchao Cai2
1College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518071, China.
The Science of the Total Environment
|August 30, 2022
Summary
Microplastics in wastewater treatment plants harbor unique microbial communities, including pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). These risks are amplified by antibiotic and metal pressures, impacting ecological health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Wastewater treatment technologies
- Antimicrobial resistance
Background:
- The plastisphere, a biofilm on microplastics, in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) may harbor pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs).
- The specific microbiome and resistome of the plastisphere in activated sludge (AS) systems are not fully understood.
- Understanding these microbial communities is crucial for assessing ecological risks associated with microplastic discharge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbial composition, functions, and ARGs of the Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastisphere in lab-scale reactors.
- To determine the effects of tetracycline (TC) and/or Cu(II) pressures on the PVC plastisphere microbiome and resistome.
- To assess the potential risks of pathogen and ARG dissemination via microplastics in WWTPs.
Main Methods:
- Metagenomic analysis was employed to characterize the microbial communities and ARGs.
- Lab-scale reactors were used to simulate WWTP conditions.
- Exposure to tetracycline (TC) and/or Cu(II) was applied to assess pressure effects.
Main Results:
- The PVC plastisphere exhibited unique microbial functions distinct from the activated sludge (AS).
- Potentially pathogenic bacteria and ARGs, particularly tetracycline resistance genes (TRGs), were enriched in the plastisphere.
- Exposure to TC and/or Cu(II) increased ARG abundance and enhanced the association between pathogens and TRGs in the plastisphere.
Conclusions:
- The plastisphere serves as a distinct niche promoting the enrichment of pathogens and ARGs in WWTPs.
- TC and Cu(II) pressures exacerbate the risk by increasing ARG abundance and pathogen-host associations.
- Microplastics in WWTPs pose a significant risk for the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
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