We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Adaptive responses of Bacillus subtilis underlie differential nanoplastic toxicity with implications for root colonization
Summary
Researchers found that nanoplastic toxicity to the beneficial soil bacterium Bacillus subtilis varies significantly depending on the bacteria's growth mode. The study suggests that nanoplastics can substantially limit the ability of plant growth-promoting bacteria to colonize roots, with implications for soil health and agricultural productivity in environments contaminated with plastic particles.
The toxicity of nanoplastics bound to plant growth-promoting bacteria strongly depends on their mode of growth, significantly limiting their ability to colonize roots.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Rhizospheric bacterial communities against microplastics (MPs): Novel ecological strategies based on the niche differentiation
Researchers studied how bacterial communities living around plant roots adapt when exposed to microplastics in soil. They found that rhizosphere bacteria developed distinct survival strategies depending on their ecological niche, with some species thriving while others declined in the presence of plastics. The study reveals that microplastics can reshape the microbial communities that plants depend on for nutrient uptake and disease resistance.
Two plant-growth-promoting Bacillus species can utilize nanoplastics
Researchers discovered that two species of Bacillus bacteria, commonly used to promote plant growth in agriculture, can break down polystyrene nanoplastics by oxidizing them. While high doses of nanoplastics initially harmed the bacteria, both species recovered and grew normally over time. The findings point to a potential biological approach for cleaning up nanoplastic pollution in agricultural soils.
Biological Responses of Bacillus subtilis toward Nanoplastics under Nutritional Stress in Freshwater Ecosystems
Researchers found that polystyrene nanoplastics are toxic to the bacterium Bacillus subtilis under nutrient-poor conditions typical of natural freshwater, with even very low concentrations (2 micrograms per liter) reducing bacterial growth during prolonged exposure. The bacteria initially defended themselves by secreting protective substances, but these defenses eventually failed, leading to irreversible cell death from membrane damage and oxidative stress.
Impact of Nanoplastic Contamination on Rhizosphere Microbiome and Plant Phenotype
This study examined how nanoplastic contamination affects the rhizosphere microbiome (soil bacteria around plant roots) and plant growth. Nanoplastic exposure altered soil microbial communities and reduced plant growth, suggesting these tiny plastic particles could disrupt the soil ecosystems that support food production.
Are nanoplastics potentially toxic for plants and rhizobiota? Current knowledge and recommendations
This review evaluates whether nanoplastics — the smallest plastic fragments, formed as larger plastics break down — are toxic to plants and the microorganisms living around their roots (rhizobiota). The evidence suggests nanoplastics can directly impair plant growth and indirectly harm soil biology by altering soil chemistry and releasing associated contaminants. Because soil is becoming a major reservoir for plastic pollution, understanding these effects is critical for global food security and soil ecosystem health.