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Labelling of micro- and nanoplastics for environmental studies: state-of-the-art and future challenges
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Researchers reviewed labelling techniques used to track micro- and nanoplastics in environmental studies, categorizing them into fluorescent, metal, stable isotope, and radioisotope methods. The study found that fluorescent labelling works well for tracking microplastics while metal labelling is more sensitive for nanoplastics research, though a major challenge remains in developing techniques that do not alter the inherent properties of the plastic particles being studied.
Studying microplastics and nanoplastics (MNP) in environmental matrices is extremely challenging, and recent developments in labelling techniques may hold much promise to further our knowledge in this field. Here, we reviewed MNP labelling techniques and applications to provide the first systematic and in-depth insight into MNP labelling. We classified all labelling techniques for MNP into four main types (fluorescent, metal, stable isotope and radioisotope) and discussed per type the synthesis methods, detection methods, influencing factors, and the current and future applications and challenges. Direct labelling of environmental MNP with fluorescent dyes and metals enables simple visualisation and selective detection of MNP to improve detection efficiency. However, it is still an open question how to avoid co-labelling of non-plastic (i.e. non-target, matrix) materials. Labelling of MNP that are intentionally added in the environment may allow semi-automatic detection of MNP particles with high accuracy and sensitivity during studies on e.g. transport and degradation. The detection limit of labelled MNP largely depends on particle size and the type of matrix. Fluorescent labelling allows efficient detection of microplastics, whereas metal labelling is preferred for nanoplastics research due to a potentially higher sensitivity. A major challenge for fluorescent and metal labelling is to develop techniques that do not alter the inherent MNP properties or only do so minimally, in particular the surface properties. Stable and radioactive isotope labelling (C and C, but also N, H) of the polymer itself allows to preserve inherent MNP properties, but have been largely ignored. Overall, labelling of MNP holds great promise for advancing our fundamental understanding of the behaviour of plastics, notably the smallest fractions, in the environment.
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Fluorescent Labeling Strategies for Tracking Micro- and Nanoplastics in Biological Systems
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This review summarizes the main methods for labeling micro- and nanoplastics with fluorescent dyes so the particles can be followed through cells, tissues and organs in lab studies. It compares them with spectroscopy methods, which give chemical information but struggle at the nanoscale.
From the synthesis of labeled nanoplastic model materials (isotopic and metallic) to their use in ecotoxicological studies with the detection and quantification analytical methods.
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Researchers synthesized isotopically and metallically labeled nanoplastic model materials to enable tracking and quantification of plastic nanoparticles in complex biological and environmental matrices at trace concentrations. The labeled models supported mechanistic studies of nanoplastic fate and exposure by allowing detection at environmentally relevant concentrations not achievable with conventional unlabeled particles.
From the synthesis of labeled nanoplastic model materials (isotopic and metallic) to their use in ecotoxicological studies with the detection and quantification analytical methods.
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This study developed labeled nanoplastic model materials using isotopic and metallic tracers to enable tracking and quantification of nanoplastics in complex biological and environmental matrices at environmentally relevant concentrations. Labeled particles allowed localization and measurement of nanoplastics at levels not detectable by conventional methods, advancing mechanistic exposure studies.
Investigation of a method for fluorescently labeling polyethylene and polypropylene nanoplastic particles for biological impact assessment research.
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Researchers created tiny particles of two common plastics, polyethylene and polypropylene, including versions aged with UV light, then tested a method to add fluorescent dye to them. The dye labeling stayed stable even after washing with solvents, offering a lab tool for future studies on how these plastic particles affect living cells or organisms.
Fluorescent Labeling Strategies for Tracking Micro- and Nanoplastics in Biological Systems
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This review rounds up the best methods scientists use to "light up" tiny plastic particles with fluorescent dyes so they can track where they go in cells and bodies. Better tracking tools mean researchers can more accurately study how microplastics move through and build up in our tissues, an important step toward understanding their real health risks.
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