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Screening for microplastics in drinking water and its toxicity profiling in zebrafish
Masmarika Mohan1, Anjali Arun Gaonkar2, Dechamma Pandyanda Nanjappa1
1Department of Molecular Genetics and Cancer, Nitte University Centre for Science Education and Research, Deralakatte, Mangalore, 575018, India.
Chemosphere
|August 28, 2023
Summary
Microplastics are present in Indian bottled water, with polyethylene being most common. Exposure to these microplastics in zebrafish embryos caused oxidative stress and toxicity, suggesting potential human health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) pose a significant environmental threat to aquatic ecosystems.
- While MP effects on aquatic life are known, human health risks remain understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and identify microplastics in bottled water brands sold in India.
- To investigate the toxicological effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) on zebrafish embryos.
Main Methods:
- Nile red staining and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to identify MPs in bottled water.
- Zebrafish embryos were exposed to fluorescent-tagged PE-MPs to study accumulation and biological responses.
Main Results:
- Polystyrene, polyethylene, and polyamide were detected in bottled water, with polyethylene being the most prevalent.
- PE-MPs accumulated in zebrafish organs, induced dose-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity, and downregulated antioxidant gene expression.
Conclusions:
- Bottled water in India contains microplastics, primarily polyethylene.
- PE-MP exposure in zebrafish indicates potential for oxidative stress and time-dependent toxicity, raising concerns for human health.
