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Immunotoxicity and oxidative damage in Litopenaeus vannamei induced by polyethylene microplastics and copper co-exposure
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Researchers found that when polyethylene microplastics carrying copper were injected into white shrimp, the combined exposure was significantly more harmful than either pollutant alone. The shrimp experienced suppressed immune function, increased oxidative stress, and severe damage to muscles, liver, and gills. Since shrimp are widely consumed seafood, these findings raise questions about how microplastic-bound metals in marine environments could affect both shellfish health and food safety.
This study examines the combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) and copper (Cu2+) on the immune and oxidative response of Litopenaeus vannamei. PE-MP adsorbed with Cu2+ at 2.3, 6.8, and 16.8 ng (g shrimp)-1) were injected into L. vannamei. Over 14 days, survival rates were monitored, and immune and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. The results showed that combined exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ significantly reduced the survival rate and decreased total haemocyte count. Immune-related parameters (phagocytic rate, phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and antioxidant-related parameters (SOD, catalase and glutathione peroxidase mRNA and enzyme) also decreased, while respiratory burst activity significantly increased, indicating immune and antioxidant system disruption. Additionally, there was a significant increase in oxidative stress, as measured by malondialdehyde levels. Histopathological analysis revealed severe muscle, hepatopancreas, and gill damage. These results suggest that simultaneous exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ poses greater health risks to white shrimp.
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