We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Comparison of cell viability assays for evaluating the cytotoxicity of HDPE microparticles in Tetrahymena thermophila (Protozoa, Ciliata)
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers compared multiple cell viability assay types for evaluating the cytotoxicity of HDPE microplastics, addressing the lack of harmonized testing methods for emerging plastic pollutants. Different assays produced inconsistent results for the same particles, highlighting the importance of method selection and standardization for reliable microplastic cytotoxicity assessment.
The increasing presence of microscopic plastic debris in the aquatic environment has raised concerns about micro- and nanoplastic particles as emerging pollutants with specific properties that require adaptation of existing test procedures and harmonisation of experimental methods. High-density polyethylene (HDPE), widely used in various products and approved by the Food and Drug Administration for food contact, has been implicated in recent studies for potential environmental impacts, including effects on organism development and behaviour. In this study, the cytotoxicity of HDPE microparticles was investigated using the protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila, a model eukaryotic organism widely used in human health and environmental risk assessment, that combines the properties of single eukaryotic cells and whole organisms. Our aim was to compare various cytotoxicity assays commonly used for non-motile in vitro cell cultures to assess the potential risks of HDPE microparticles. The tested materials were extensively characterised in the test medium, and their cytotoxicity was compared to well-studied particulate controls (Ag and TiO2 nanoparticles). We included the cytotoxicity assays described in ISO standard 4988:2022 (ATP and MTT assays), and extended the evaluation with four additional assays targeting different mechanisms: resazurin assay, CyQuant and BrdU proliferation assay, and PI/Hoechst differential staining. After 24 hours of exposure, the surface of the organisms was examined using scanning electron microscopy, revealing no evidence of material adsorption. Light microscopy analysis confirmed the uptake of 5 µm particles into the Tetrahymena thermophila food vacuoles. Although the organisms internalised HDPE microparticles, the results of the six cytotoxicity assays showed no significant changes in metabolic activity, viability or proliferation of Tetrahymena thermophila. Our findings suggest that HDPE microparticles pose a low hazard potential. Our approach ensures compliance with quality criteria for particle effect studies and generates data in accordance with FAIR principles. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/559241/document
More Papers Like This
Comparison of cell viability assays for evaluating the cytotoxicity of HDPE microparticles in Tetrahymena thermophila (Protozoa, Ciliata)
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers compared multiple cell viability assay methods for evaluating the cytotoxicity of high-density polyethylene microplastics, addressing the need for harmonized testing protocols given that different assays can yield contradictory results. The comparison identified assay-specific interferences caused by plastic particles and recommended best practices for cytotoxicity testing.
Cytotoxicity assessment of HDPE microplastic on Tetrahymena thermophila (Protozoa, Ciliate): Assuring quality and FAIR data
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers assessed the cytotoxicity of high-density polyethylene microplastics on the single-celled organism Tetrahymena thermophila, focusing on data quality and reproducibility. They found that HDPE microplastics at tested concentrations affected cell viability, and they documented their methods following FAIR data principles to improve transparency in microplastic hazard research. The study serves as a case study for how to conduct rigorous, reproducible microplastic toxicity assessments.
Can the impact of micro- and nanoplastics on human health really be assessed using in vitro models? A review of methodological issues
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines whether lab-based cell studies can reliably predict how micro and nanoplastics affect human health. The authors found significant inconsistencies in how researchers choose plastic particle types, doses, and exposure methods, making it hard to compare results across studies. The paper calls for standardized testing protocols so that lab findings can more accurately reflect real-world microplastic exposure risks to people.
Analytical methodologies used for screening micro(nano)plastics in (eco)toxicity tests
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed how scientists analyze microplastics and nanoplastics in toxicity experiments, finding widespread inconsistency in how the particles are characterized before testing — including their size, shape, and chemical makeup. Better standardization of these measurements is essential for comparing results across studies and accurately assessing how microplastics harm living organisms.
Towards harmonized ecotoxicological effect assessment of micro- and nanoplastics in aquatic systems
AI summary Read the abstract
This review highlights the methodological problems in current microplastic and nanoplastic toxicity research on freshwater organisms, including the use of unrealistic plastic types, poor test designs, and environmentally irrelevant doses. The authors propose a harmonized framework for testing that better reflects real-world conditions, including more realistic particle types and exposure levels. Better standardized research is essential for accurately assessing the true environmental and health risks of micro and nanoplastic pollution.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.