Nanomaterials' Multigenerational Effects by Single and Joint Exposure in Non-mammalian Models

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Nanotoxicology
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Nanotoxicology research predominantly focuses on single-generation effects, neglecting long-term multigenerational impacts.
• Growing concerns for animal welfare necessitate understanding multigenerational toxicity of nanomaterials (NM).
• This review synthesizes current knowledge on multigenerational effects of NM in non-mammalian models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a state-of-the-art overview of multigenerational effects of NM exposure.
• To examine NM single and joint exposure to other substances, pollutants, and environmental conditions.
• To identify knowledge gaps and advocate for future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of multigenerational toxicity studies.
• Focus on non-mammalian models including Caenorhabditis elegans, Daphnia spp., and Danio rerio.
• Analysis of effects from nanoplastics, silver (Ag), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) based nanomaterials.

Main Results:

• Nanoplastics, Ag-, and TiO2-based NM are most studied; nanoplastics show increasing research interest.
• Observed effects include altered life-history traits, oxidative stress, and NM transfer to offspring.
• Co-exposure studies reveal varied outcomes, including synergistic toxicity and alleviating effects.

Conclusions:

• Multigenerational assessments are crucial for realistic long-term ecological risk evaluation of NM.
• Further research is needed on other widely produced NM, such as carbon-based materials.
• Understanding multigenerational effects is vital for environmental safety and animal welfare.