We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Recent Advances on Multilevel Effects of Micro(Nano)Plastics and Coexisting Pollutants on Terrestrial Soil-Plants System
AI summary Read the abstract
This review systematically summarizes how micro- and nanoplastics, alone and combined with co-existing pollutants, affect soil properties and terrestrial plants at multiple biological levels. Researchers found that microplastics can serve as carriers for heavy metals, organic contaminants, and biological pollutants, with their specific impacts depending on polymer type, size, shape, and concentration. Evidence indicates that plants can take up and transport micro- and nanoplastics, leading to effects on growth, metabolism, and even DNA damage.
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) are posing emerging potential threats to global ecosystems and human health. Recently, the individual effects of MPs/NPs and combined effects of MPs/NPs-coexisting pollutants on soil–terrestrial plant systems have attracted increasing attention. Based on the latest research progress, this review firstly summarized the sources of MPs/NPs and the interaction between MPs/NPs and coexisting pollutants in soil environment, and then systematically induced their multilevel impacts on soil properties and terrestrial plants. Soil and agroecosystem are major long-term sinks of primary and secondary MPs/NPs, with extensive sources. MPs/NPs exhibit universal adsorption capacities and can further serve as the vectors for varied heavy metal, organic and biological contaminants. Generally, MPs/NPs and the combination with coexisting contaminants may affect soil physical, chemical and microbiological properties, soil structure and functions, while the specific impacts and degree depend on MP/NP characteristics including polymer type, size, shape, concentration and degradability. Increasing evidence confirmed the uptake and translocation of MPs/NPs in terrestrial plants and proved their influence on growth performance, metabolism and physiological toxicity, as well as cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The specific effects vary as a function of MP/NPs properties, plant species and environmental conditions. The joint effects of MPs/NPs and coexisting pollutants are complex, and synergistic, antagonism and neutralization effects have been reported at different circumstances. Further comprehensive and in-depth studies are urgently needed to fulfill the current knowledge gaps, especially the deficiency in the inherent mechanisms.
More Papers Like This
Combined interactions and ecotoxicological effects of micro/nanoplastics and organic pollutants in soil–plant systems: a critical overview
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how micro- and nanoplastics interact with organic pollutants in soil-plant systems. The study highlights that these plastic particles can act synergistically with organic pollutants in terrestrial ecosystems, posing combined threats to soil and plant health that warrant further investigation.
Microplastic/nanoplastic toxicity in plants: an imminent concern
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the growing body of research on how microplastics and nanoplastics affect terrestrial plants, from root uptake to changes in growth and gene expression. Researchers found that these particles can alter plant physiology and biochemistry at varying degrees depending on particle size and concentration. The study calls for more research on how plastic contamination in soil may ultimately affect food crop quality and human health through the food chain.
Micro (nano) plastic pollution: The ecological influence on soil-plant system and human health.
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how micro- and nanoplastics affect soil health, plant growth, and food quality, finding that these particles accumulate in plant root systems and can reduce crop yields and alter nutritional content. Since contaminated soil and water are increasingly delivering microplastics to food crops, these findings are directly relevant to agricultural food safety.
Microplastics and nanoplastics in the soil-plant nexus: Sources, uptake, and toxicity
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how microplastics and nanoplastics accumulate in agricultural soils from plastic products and affect the soil-plant system. Researchers found that nanoplastics can be taken up by plant roots, cause oxidative stress, and negatively affect crop growth. The findings raise concerns about food safety since these particles may carry co-contaminants into the food chain.
Particulate plastics-plant interaction in soil and its implications: A review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines how micro- and nanoplastics in soil interact with plants, including uptake through roots, accumulation in plant tissues, and effects on growth, nutrient absorption, and soil microbial communities. The study highlights that these plastic particles can alter soil structure and chemistry in ways that affect crop development, raising concerns about food safety and agricultural productivity.
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.