From Personal Care to Coastal Concerns: Investigating Polyethylene Glycol Impact on Mussel's Antioxidant, Physiological, and Cellular Responses

Cristiana Roberta Multisanti ¹, Giorgia Zicarelli ², Alessia Caferro ³

⁰Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy.

Antioxidants (basel, Switzerland) +

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June 27, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) in pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) harms mussels, causing oxidative stress and reduced cell viability. Further research is needed to understand PPCPs' environmental impact and find safer alternatives.

Area Of Science

Environmental toxicology
Marine biology
Biochemistry

Background

Pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) are prevalent in aquatic environments.
Concerns exist regarding the ecological impact of persistent and hazardous substances within PPCPs.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a common PPCP ingredient requiring toxicological assessment.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the physiological effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the marine mussel, *Mytilus galloprovincialis*.
To evaluate PEG-induced oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and cell volume regulation in mussels.
To assess the environmental risks associated with PEG contamination in marine ecosystems.

Main Methods

Mussels (*Mytilus galloprovincialis*) were exposed to two PEG concentrations (0.1 mg/L and 10 mg/L) for 14 days.
Oxidative stress biomarkers (superoxide dismutase activity, lipid peroxidation, oxidatively modified proteins) were measured in gills and digestive glands.
Cytotoxicity assays and cell volume regulation (RVD assay) were performed on mussel cells.

Main Results

PEG exposure reduced superoxide dismutase activity and increased lipid peroxidation in mussel gills.
Increased lipid peroxidation was observed in the digestive gland, while other markers remained unchanged.
Significant decreases in cell viability and disruptions in cell volume regulation were noted, particularly at the higher PEG concentration (10 mg/L).

Conclusions

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) exposure induces significant physiological stress in *Mytilus galloprovincialis*.
The findings highlight the potential ecotoxicological risks of PPCPs in marine environments.
Further research is warranted to clarify the environmental implications of PPCPs and to develop safer chemical alternatives.

Keywords:

aquatic pollution digestive gland gills mussels personal care products