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Biodegradable nanoplastics pose a greater risk: Polylactide exceeds polystyrene in phytotoxicity and bioaccumulation in lettuce
Summary
Researchers compared the uptake, translocation, and phytotoxicity of polylactic acid (PLA) biodegradable nanoplastics versus conventional polystyrene nanoplastics in lettuce, finding that PLA accumulated at higher levels and caused greater growth inhibition — challenging the assumption that biodegradable plastics are safer.
This dataset supports the research article entitled “Biodegradable nanoplastics pose a greater risk: Polylactide exceeds polystyrene in phytotoxicity and bioaccumulation in lettuce”. The study investigated the uptake, translocation, phytotoxicity, and plant defense mechanisms in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) exposed to conventional polystyrene (PS) and biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) nanoplastics (NPs). The data comprise five main categories: Nanoparticle Characterization: Data on the physicochemical properties of the pristine and europium (Eu)-labeled PS and PLA particles, including hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential, and confirmation of chemical structure via Raman spectroscopy. Excitation and emission spectra validate the fluorescent properties of Eu-labeled particles for tracking. Plant Phenotype and Growth Parameters: Data on biomass, root and shoot length, and root system architecture of lettuce after 14 days of exposure to PS and PLA particles at concentrations of 0, 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L. Physiological and Biochemical Indicators: Measurements of photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, b, carotenoids), oxidative stress markers (MDA content), and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, POD, CAT). Quantification of NPs in Plants: Data from inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) measuring Eu content in plant tissues (root, stem, leaf). This includes the standard curve correlating Eu mass to NPs mass, and the resulting calculated concentrations of PS-Eu and PLA-Eu particles in all tissues, bioconcentration factor (BCF), and translocation factors (TLF). This also includes quantitative data on root suberization and lignification. These data provide direct evidence for the higher bioavailability and phytotoxicity of biodegradable PLA NPs compared to conventional PS NPs, revealing associated plant defense responses. They are critical for understanding the fate of nanoplastics in plants and for the environmental risk assessment of biodegradable plastics.