We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Polystyrene nanoplastics induce oxidative stress in Aurelia coerulea polyps, microglia, and mice
Summary
Researchers tested the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics across three very different biological systems: jellyfish polyps, brain immune cells, and mice. Despite the different organisms, all three showed consistent oxidative stress responses when exposed to the nanoplastics. The converging evidence across marine, cellular, and mammalian models highlights the widespread biological risks these tiny plastic particles may pose.
While these models represent distinct organisms and biological contexts, all demonstrated consistent oxidative stress responses upon PS-NPs exposure. Although we do not claim direct equivalency across species, the converging evidence from marine, cellular, and mammalian systems highlights the widespread biological risks posed by nanoplastics. These findings provide a foundation for evaluating environmental and public health threats associated with PS-NPs.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Table 1_Polystyrene nanoplastics induce oxidative stress in Aurelia coerulea polyps, microglia, and mice.docx
Researchers investigated oxidative stress responses to polystyrene nanoplastics in three model systems—jellyfish polyps, BV2 microglia, and ICR mice—and found activation of the MAPK signalling pathway across all models. In mice, NP exposure also produced neurobehavioural changes, strengthening evidence for neurological effects of polystyrene nanoplastic exposure.
Toxicological effects of polystyrene nanoplastics on marine organisms
Researchers exposed Pacific white shrimp to polystyrene nanoplastics at various concentrations and measured immune, antioxidant, and tissue responses after seven days. They found that nanoplastic exposure disrupted immune function, increased oxidative stress, and caused tissue damage, particularly in the hepatopancreas and gills. The study adds to growing evidence that nanoplastics can harm the health of commercially important marine species.
Nanoparticle-Biological Interactions in a Marine Benthic Foraminifer
Researchers exposed single-celled marine organisms called foraminifera to three types of engineered nanoparticles — including polystyrene nanoplastics — and found that all three accumulated inside the cells and triggered oxidative stress (a form of cellular damage). This study shows that even microscopic seafloor organisms are vulnerable to nanoplastic pollution, expanding the known range of species harmed by plastic contamination.
The FOXO pathway mediates a conserved mechanism of antioxidant defense against microplastic-induced toxicity in Aurelia coerulea polyps and mouse liver
Researchers exposed both jellyfish polyps and mice to polystyrene microplastics and found that both species suffered tissue damage, oxidative stress, and activated similar antioxidant defense pathways through what is known as the FOXO signaling pathway. The gene sequences involved in this response were nearly 50% similar between the two very different species, suggesting a conserved biological defense mechanism. The study provides evidence that the cellular response to microplastic damage may be shared across a wide range of animal life.
Effects of exposure to micro/nanoplastics of polystyrene on neuronal oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and anxiety-like behavior in mice: A Systematic Review
This systematic review examined 24 studies on how polystyrene microplastics and nanoplastics affect the brains of mice. The findings consistently showed that exposure led to increased oxidative stress, brain inflammation, and anxiety-like behavior. Maternal exposure also caused brain-related harm in offspring, suggesting these tiny plastic particles could pose real risks to the nervous system.