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The impact of polystyrene nanoplastics on lignin biosynthesis in Arabidopsis thaliana (L.)
Summary
Researchers exposed Arabidopsis plants to polystyrene nanoplastics and found that the particles penetrate root tissues and trigger a concentration-dependent buildup of lignin — the structural polymer that stiffens plant cell walls — as a defensive stress response, accompanied by increased oxidative damage markers and upregulation of lignin-biosynthesis genes.
UNLABELLED: The discharge of micro- and nanoplastics (NPs) into terrestrial environments poses a growing threat to ecosystems. Lignin, a key component of the plant cell wall, is crucial for growth and environmental adaptation. This study investigated the effects of polystyrene (PS)-NPs on lignin biosynthesis in . Seedlings were exposed to PS-NPs at concentrations of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg L for five days. The uptake of PS-NPs by root tissues was confirmed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. PS-NPs exposure inhibited seedling growth and increased oxidative stress indicators, including hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels. The activities of lignin-related enzymes, such as soluble peroxidase (POD), cell wall-bound POD, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, were enhanced. The highest concentration of PS-NPs (50 mg L) significantly elevated lignin accumulation in the roots. The expression of genes involved in lignin biosynthesis showed different patterns under PS-NPs treatments. These findings suggest that PS-NPs trigger lignification in plant roots in a concentration-dependent manner, potentially as a defense response to NP-induced stress. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-025-01698-9.