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Perfluorooctanoate and nano titanium dioxide impair the byssus performance of the mussel Mytilus coruscus

  • 0International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
Journal of Hazardous Materials +

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March 19, 2024

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March 19, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Combined exposure to Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) impairs mussel defense functions. These pollutants weaken byssal threads and damage foot tissue, despite compensatory gene upregulation.

Area Of Science

  • Marine Biology
  • Environmental Toxicology
  • Ecotoxicology

Background

  • Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exhibits known toxicity to marine organisms.
  • Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) are emerging environmental pollutants.
  • Combined effects of PFOA and nano-TiO2 on mussel defense mechanisms are poorly understood.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the defense strategies and regulatory mechanisms of mussels under combined exposure to PFOA and nano-TiO2.
  • To assess the impact of these pollutants on mussel byssus performance and foot structure.
  • To elucidate the toxicological mechanisms of PFOA and nano-TiO2 co-exposure in marine mussels.

Main Methods

  • Mytilus coruscus mussels were exposed to varying concentrations of PFOA and nano-TiO2 for 14 days.
  • Byssal thread performance indicators (number, length, diameter, breaking force) were measured.
  • Morphological analysis of byssal threads and foot tissue, along with gene expression analysis (caspase-8, mfp-3, preCOL-D, preCOL-NG), were conducted.

Main Results

  • PFOA and nano-TiO2 significantly reduced byssal thread number, length, diameter, and breaking force.
  • Pollutant exposure altered the morphology of byssal threads and adhesive plaques.
  • Foot tissue showed dispersed organization, damaged villi, increased apoptosis, and upregulated expression of apoptosis and adhesion genes.

Conclusions

  • Combined PFOA and nano-TiO2 exposure deteriorates mussel byssal thread performance and impairs foot structure.
  • Upregulation of specific genes suggests a compensatory response to pollutant-induced damage.
  • These findings highlight the ecological implications of combined organic and particulate contaminant exposure on marine ecosystems.

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