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Characterization of a Novel Artemisinin Algicidal Particle and Its Inhibitory Effect on Microcystis aeruginosa
Lixiao Ni1, Chengjie Zhu1, Cunhao Du1
1Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
A new artemisinin sustained-release particle (ASP) was developed that significantly inhibits Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa) growth. The physical and chemical properties of ASPs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetry (DSC-TG). The results demonstrated that ASPs are thermally stable and have sustained-release properties. On the sixth day, the ASPs (0.2 g L-1) inhibited M. aeruginosa with an inhibition rate (IR) greater than 70%. Additionally, ASPs inhibited M. aeruginosa without increasing microcystin-LR release (MC-LR). This research offers a novel approach to the management of cyanobacterial blooms.
Insights
A novel artemisinin sustained-release particle (ASP) effectively inhibits Microcystis aeruginosa growth by over 70% without releasing harmful toxins. This offers a new strategy for managing harmful cyanobacterial blooms.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Aquatic microbiology
- Materials science
Background:
- Cyanobacterial blooms, particularly Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa), pose significant environmental and health risks.
- Existing methods for bloom control may have limitations or unintended consequences, such as toxin release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a novel artemisinin sustained-release particle (ASP) for effective M. aeruginosa bloom management.
- To evaluate the efficacy of ASPs in inhibiting M. aeruginosa growth and assess their impact on microcystin-LR release.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of ASPs using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry-thermogravimetry (DSC-TG).
- Assessing the growth inhibition rate (IR) of M. aeruginosa exposed to ASPs over time.
- Quantifying microcystin-LR (MC-LR) release in the presence of ASPs.
Main Results:
- ASPs exhibited thermal stability and sustained-release properties.
- A concentration of 0.2 g L⁻¹ ASPs achieved an inhibition rate greater than 70% against M. aeruginosa by day six.
- ASP treatment did not lead to an increase in microcystin-LR release.
Conclusions:
- Artemisinin sustained-release particles (ASPs) represent a promising and safe method for controlling M. aeruginosa blooms.
- The sustained-release properties and high inhibition rates of ASPs offer a novel approach to cyanobacterial bloom management.
- The absence of increased MC-LR release suggests a favorable environmental profile for ASPs in aquatic ecosystems.
