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Nanoplastics and Fungi: Exploring Dual Roles in Degradation and Pathogenicity
Summary
This review examines the dual role of fungi in relation to nanoplastics: their capacity to enzymatically degrade plastic polymers as a bioremediation tool, and the risk that nanoplastics alter fungal pathogenicity. The authors find that nanoplastic exposure can affect fungal growth and virulence, creating complex interactions with important implications for ecosystems and human health.
Plastic pollution, particularly in the form of nanoplastics, has emerged as a significant global environmental concern, affecting ecosystems and human health. This review examines the complex interactions between fungi and nanoplastics, emphasizing the dual role of fungi in plastic degradation and potential pathogenicity. Fungi possess unique enzymatic machinery that allows them to degrade various plastic materials, offering promising bioremediation strategies. However, the presence of nanoplastics can impact fungal physiology, potentially altering metabolic pathways, enhancing virulence, and contributing to antifungal resistance. The interactions between nanoplastics and fungi raise critical questions about their ecological roles and implications for human health. This review underscores the need for further research into the mechanisms of nanoplastic-fungi interactions, the effects on fungal communities, and the potential for increased resistance to antifungal agents. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing effective strategies to address the challenges posed by plastic pollution and fungal infections. The findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing the intertwined issues of environmental sustainability and public health.