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Microplastic and Nanoplastic Interactions with Plant Species: Trends, Meta-Analysis, and Perspectives
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This meta-analysis examines how microplastics and nanoplastics interact with plants, finding effects on germination, growth, and nutrient absorption. The findings raise concerns for human health because crops grown in microplastic-contaminated soil may take up these particles, creating another pathway for microplastics to enter our diet.
The ubiquitous presence of nanoplastics (NPx) and microplastics (MPx) in the environment has been demonstrated, and as such, the exposure scenarios, mechanisms of plant response, and ultimate risk must be determined. Here, we performed a meta-analysis of the most recent literature investigating the effect of MPx/NPx on plant species under laboratory and field conditions so as to evaluate the current state of knowledge. Effects of MPx/NPx exposure in plants vary as a function of plant species, and interestingly, nonsignificant responses are reported in staple crops. We found that NPx (<100 nm) more negatively affected plant development parameters, photosynthetic pigments, and biochemical indicators than did MPx (>100 nm). Surprisingly, NPx exposure exhibited negligible effects on germination rate, although root morphology was negatively affected. Alternatively, MPx negatively affected (14%) germination and generally exhibited nonsignificant effects on root morphology. The effect of MPx/NPx on plant health decreases with increasing exposure time. No specific trends were evident for the production of biochemical enzymes as related to MPx/NPx concentration or size. Furthermore, we provided a framework for additional investigative work to address the knowledge gaps and to enable accurate assessment of the fate and risk of these materials to environmental and human health.
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Micro and Nanoplastics Interactions with Plant Species: Trends, Meta-Analysis, and Perspectives
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This meta-analysis pooled data from multiple studies to examine how micro- and nanoplastics affect plants. It found that nanoplastics (smaller than 100 nm) are generally more harmful to plant growth and development than larger microplastics, though staple crops showed surprisingly little effect. Since plants can absorb these tiny plastic particles, the findings raise questions about whether microplastics in soil could enter the food supply.
Recent advances on microplastics/nanoplastics interaction with plant species: A concise review
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This review synthesizes research on how microplastics and nanoplastics interact with plants, finding that plastic particles in soil can interfere with root uptake, germination, and crop yields depending on the type and concentration of plastic present. The findings are particularly relevant to human health because food crops grown in microplastic-contaminated agricultural soils may absorb or accumulate plastic particles, creating a direct dietary exposure route.
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This meta-analysis examines how nanoplastics affect terrestrial plants, finding impacts on growth, nutrient uptake, and cellular function. The research matters for human health because plants that absorb nanoplastics from contaminated soil could transfer these particles into fruits and vegetables that end up on our plates.
Microplastic and Nanoplastic in Crops: Possible Adverse Effects to Crop Production and Contaminant Transfer in the Food Chain
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This meta-analysis found that nanoplastics can be taken up by plant roots and transferred to the parts we eat, while also reducing crop yields. This means microplastic pollution in agricultural soil could affect both food safety and food production, creating a dual concern for human health.
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