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Published on: July 4, 2021
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Immunotoxicity of microplastics in fish.
Huiqi Li1, Huanpeng Liu1, Liuliu Bi1
1Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
Fish & Shellfish Immunology
|May 12, 2024
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) harm fish immunity by damaging organs and disrupting immune cells. Further research is needed to understand MP immunotoxicity and its combined effects with pollutants.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Aquatic Ecology
- Immunology
Background:
- Plastic waste in aquatic environments degrades into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs).
- MPs and NPs are ingested by aquatic organisms, causing physical and chemical harm.
- The fish immune system is vital for defense against waterborne pathogens and pollutants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the detrimental effects of MPs on the fish immune system.
- To examine the immunotoxicity of MPs, alone and combined with environmental pollutants.
- To identify research gaps and future directions in fish immunotoxicity studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on microplastic immunotoxicity in fish.
- Analysis of immune responses, including cellular recruitment and organ damage.
- Evaluation of changes in immune markers like cytokines, gene expression, and lysosomal activity.
Main Results:
- MPs physically damage fish gills, liver, and intestines, and enter cells.
- Exposure alters immune cell signaling, cytokine levels, and gene expression, leading to immune homeostasis disruption.
- Initial immune cell recruitment (macrophages, T cells) is followed by apoptosis, reduced lysosomal capacity, and complement levels.
Conclusions:
- Microplastics pose significant risks to fish immune function, compromising specific immunity.
- MPs can bind to pollutants and viruses, potentially modulating immune responses.
- Comprehensive studies on MP characteristics, additives, and combined effects with other contaminants are crucial for understanding fish immunotoxicity and its implications for human health.
