Papers

Microplastics – A Growing Concern as Carcinogens in Cancer Etiology: Emphasis on Biochemical and Molecular Mechanisms

This review describes how microplastics smaller than 5 mm can enter human cells and promote cancer development through multiple pathways, including DNA damage, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and disruption of cell growth controls. Microplastics also carry other contaminants into the body, and their accumulation in tissues raises concerns about long-term cancer risk, particularly in the lungs, skin, and digestive system.

Nanomaterials and biochar mediated remediation of emerging contaminants

This review covers how nanomaterials and biochar can be used to remove emerging contaminants, including microplastics, from the environment through techniques like photocatalysis and enhanced filtration. Developing effective cleanup methods is critical because these contaminants can persist in water and soil for long periods, eventually reaching humans through food and drinking water.

Microplastic Toxicity in Aquatic Organisms and Aquatic Ecosystems: a Review

Sorption of PFOS onto polystyrene microplastics potentiates synergistic toxic effects during zebrafish embryogenesis and neurodevelopment

Researchers found that polystyrene microplastics can absorb PFOS (a persistent industrial chemical) from water and deliver it to zebrafish embryos in a more concentrated form. The combination caused worse developmental problems than either pollutant alone, including delayed hatching, higher death rates, birth defects, and impaired brain development. This shows microplastics can act as carriers that intensify the toxic effects of other environmental chemicals.

Soil contamination in nearby natural areas mirrors that in urban greenspaces worldwide

A global study found that soil contamination in natural areas is just as bad as in nearby urban green spaces, with similar levels of heavy metals, pesticides, microplastics, and antibiotic resistance genes. Human activity was the main driver of contamination regardless of whether the area was urban or natural. The findings show that microplastic pollution and other contaminants have spread far beyond cities, potentially affecting soil health and the food grown in these areas.

Polystyrene microplastics induced disturbances in neuronal arborization and dendritic spine density in mice prefrontal cortex

Mice that consumed polystyrene microplastics for 28 days showed significant damage to brain cells in the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for decision-making and behavior. The neurons had shorter branches, fewer connections, and reduced levels of a key growth factor called BDNF. These findings suggest that microplastic exposure could affect brain structure and potentially cognitive function, raising concerns about the neurological effects of chronic microplastic ingestion in humans.

Polystyrene microplastics disrupt female reproductive health and fertility via sirt1 modulation in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

This study found that polystyrene microplastics disrupted female reproductive health in zebrafish by interfering with a key protein called SIRT1 that regulates hormone production. Exposed fish showed changes in egg development, hormone levels, and ovarian tissue structure. Since the hormonal pathways affected are similar in humans, these findings raise concerns about how microplastic exposure might contribute to fertility problems in women.

Insights into Microbial Enzymatic Biodegradation of Plastics and Microplastics: Technological Updates

This review covers the latest advances in using microbial enzymes and biotechnology to break down plastic and microplastic waste. While some bacteria and fungi can partially degrade certain plastics, the process is slow and limited by factors like the plastic's chemical structure and crystallinity. The research points toward genetic engineering and genome editing as potential tools to speed up plastic degradation, though practical large-scale solutions are still in development.

Sediment-associated microplastics in Chilika lake, India: Highlighting their prevalence, polymer types, possible sources, and ecological risks

Scientists surveyed microplastic contamination in the sediments of Chilika Lake, India, finding 440 particles per kilogram across 22 sites, with polyethylene being the most common type. Fibers and fragments were the dominant shapes, likely originating from fishing activities, tourism, and nearby urban areas. Since Chilika Lake supports important fisheries, this microplastic contamination raises concerns about exposure for both the aquatic ecosystem and the people who depend on the lake for food and livelihood.

Polystyrene microplastics modulated bdnf expression triggering neurotoxicity via apoptotic pathway in zebrafish embryos

Zebrafish embryos exposed to polystyrene microplastics showed brain damage, abnormal behavior, and changes in a key brain development gene called BDNF that controls nerve cell growth and survival. The microplastics triggered oxidative stress and activated cell-death pathways in developing brain tissue. These findings raise concerns that microplastic exposure during early development could interfere with brain formation and function.

Restoring the Unrestored: Strategies for Restoring Global Land during the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (UN-DER)

This article presents strategies for restoring degraded land during the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), noting that over 33% of global land is currently degraded. The researchers argue that successful restoration requires combining indigenous knowledge with advanced technology, strong political will, and participation from all sectors of society. The study emphasizes that both individual crowdfunding and institutional investment are critical to fund restoration efforts at scale.

Potential Environmental and Human Health Risks Caused by Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (ARB), Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs) and Emerging Contaminants (ECs) from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Landfill

This review examines how landfills contribute to environmental contamination through leachate that carries antibiotic-resistant bacteria, resistance genes, and emerging contaminants including microplastics. Researchers found that these pollutants can spread from landfills into surrounding soil, groundwater, and agricultural areas, creating potential risks for both environmental and human health. The study calls for development of better waste management strategies, particularly in developing nations where open dumping remains common.

Current innovative approaches in reducing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in processed meat and meat products

This review examines how cancer-causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) form in processed meats during cooking methods like grilling, smoking, and frying. While not directly about microplastics, PAHs are relevant because they are among the harmful chemicals that can attach to microplastic surfaces in the environment. The paper discusses various strategies to reduce PAH formation in food, which matters for overall exposure to carcinogens through the diet.

Investigating the hypothesis role of the hidden poison microplastics in lymphoma development

This review explores the hypothesis that microplastics, which are found throughout the environment and enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, could indirectly contribute to the development of lymphoma. Researchers examined how microplastics cause oxidative stress, immune disruption, and metabolic changes that may create conditions favorable to this type of blood cancer. While direct evidence is still lacking, the study suggests that the mechanisms warrant further investigation.

Biochar's multifaceted role in bioremediation of emerging contaminants and heavy metals in complex rhizospheric ecosystem

Preventing Microplastic Pollution in Surface Waters: Legal Frameworks and Strategic Actions

This study reviews the legal frameworks and strategic actions being developed in India and internationally to prevent microplastic contamination of surface waters. Researchers examined policies including plastic waste management rules, bans on single-use plastics, and extended producer responsibility programs. The study highlights that while regulatory progress has been made, effective enforcement and coordination between governments, industry, and the public remain essential for reducing microplastic pollution in waterways.

A Systematic Review on Emission, Accumulation, Mechanism, and Toxicity Perspective of Micro‐Nanoplastics in the Soil–Plant Nexus

This systematic review examines how micro- and nanoplastics enter soil, accumulate in plants, and move through the soil-plant system. The research shows that microplastics alter soil properties, affect plant growth, and can be taken up by crop roots and transported to edible plant parts. This is a direct concern for human health because it means microplastics in agricultural soil may end up in the fruits and vegetables people consume.

Microplastic pollution in agricultural environments: Origins, impacts, and mitigation strategies

Evaluation on the Biological Aspect of Plant, Contaminant Types and Application of Phytoremediation for Environmental and Economical Sustainability

This review assessed how different types of plants can be used to clean up environmental contaminants, including microplastics, from soil, water, and sediments. Researchers found that various plant species can effectively remove or stabilize pollutants through natural biological processes, and that newer technologies like genetic engineering and nanotechnology can further enhance these capabilities. The study suggests that plant-based remediation offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to addressing pollution while also supporting carbon sequestration and soil health.

Microplastic and adhesive free, multifunctional, circular economy approach-based biomass-derived drinking straws

Researchers developed drinking straws made from rice straw waste that are free of microplastics and adhesives. The study suggests these bio-based straws are water-stable, heat-resistant, antibacterial, and biodegradable, with a dramatically lower carbon footprint than metal or polylactic acid alternatives, turning agricultural waste into a useful consumer product.

Atmospheric Microplastics: Perspectives on Origin, Abundances, Ecological and Health Risks

This review summarizes current knowledge about microplastics in the atmosphere, including their sources, how far they travel, and potential health effects from inhalation. Researchers found that airborne microplastics can carry toxic chemicals deep into the respiratory system and may contribute to respiratory problems and other health concerns. The study emphasizes that atmospheric microplastic pollution remains poorly understood due to a lack of standardized measurement methods.

Rejuvenation of the Springs in the Hindu Kush Himalayas Through Transdisciplinary Approaches—A Review

This review examines the declining water output from natural springs across the Hindu Kush Himalayan region, which provides water to millions of people. Factors including climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable land use are reducing spring discharge, threatening rural agriculture and driving urban migration. The authors advocate for a combined approach that integrates scientific monitoring with community-based interventions and public-private partnerships to restore and sustain these critical water sources.

Pollution status of microplastics in the sediments of warm monomictic Dal lake, India: Abundance, composition, and risk assessment

Researchers conducted the first investigation of microplastic contamination in the sediments of Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, India. They found concentrations ranging from 503 to over 3,000 particles per kilogram, with the highest levels occurring in spring, and identified multiple polymer types with polyester and polyethylene being most common. The study establishes baseline pollution data for this ecologically important lake and highlights the seasonal patterns of microplastic accumulation.

Utilizing the potential of Saussurea lappa in aquaculture industry: a review on immune enhancement and pollution remediation

This review examines the potential of Saussurea lappa, a medicinal plant, as a natural immune booster and pollution remediation tool in aquaculture. Researchers found that compounds from the plant show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that could help farmed fish resist disease. The study highlights the plant as a promising eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals in fish farming.