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PBAT Microplastics Modulate Oxidative Stress and Plant–Fungus Interactions in Wheat Under Metolachlor Exposure
Original title: PBAT Microplastics Modulate Oxidative Stress and Plant–Fungus Interactions in Wheat Under Metolachlor Exposure
Summary
Even "biodegradable" plastics used in farming may cause problems: this study found that when these plastic particles build up in soil, they stress wheat plants, mess with the plant's natural defenses, and interfere with a helpful fungus farmers use to boost crop health. The plastics also stuck to a common weed-killer chemical, which could change how that pesticide behaves in the environment and potentially in our food supply. While this was a controlled lab study (not real farm soil), it's an early warning sign that "eco-friendly" plastics aren't necessarily harmless to crops or the food chain.
Microplastics (MPs) and pesticides increasingly co-occur in agricultural ecosystems, where they may jointly affect plant physiology and plant–microorganism interactions. This study investigated the individual and combined effects of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), the herbicide metolachlor (MET), and the beneficial fungus Trichoderma harzianum KKP 534 on wheat (Triticum aestivum). Plant growth, physiological responses, chlorophyll content, cell membrane damage, antioxidant enzyme activities and selected metabolomic and lipidomic biomarkers were evaluated. High PBAT concentrations negatively affected wheat growth by reducing root and shoot length and increasing oxidative stress, as evidenced by elevated TBARS levels, increased antioxidant enzyme activities (POD, GST, CAT, and SOD), and enhanced membrane damage. Metabolomic and lipidomic analyses further revealed stress-associated changes in amino acid metabolism and membrane lipid remodelling. PBAT also adsorbed MET and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (DTBP), potentially altering their bioavailability and environmental behaviour. Although T. harzianum KKP 534 promoted plant growth and enhanced antioxidant responses under control conditions, these beneficial effects were attenuated in the presence of PBAT MP. The results suggest that biodegradable microplastics may influence plant–microbe interactions and modify pesticide dynamics under controlled conditions, highlighting the need for further studies in soil-based systems.