Effects of manufactured nanomaterials on algae: Implications and applications

Abstract

The wide application of manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs) has resulted in the inevitable release of MNMs into the aquatic environment along their life cycle. As the primary producer in aquatic ecosystems, algae play a critical role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems’ energy flow, material circulation and information transmission. Thus, thoroughly understanding the biological effects of MNMs on algae as well as the underlying mechanisms is of vital importance. We conducted a comprehensive review on both positive and negative effects of MNMs on algae and thoroughly discussed the underlying mechanisms. In general, exposure to MNMs may adversely affect algae’s gene expression, metabolites, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation and growth rate. The major mechanisms of MNMs-induced inhibition are attributed to oxidative stress, mechanical damages, released metal ions and light-shielding effects. Meanwhile, the rational application of MNMs-algae interactions would promote valuable bioactive substances production as well as control biological and chemical pollutants. Our review could provide a better understanding of the biological effects of MNMs on algae and narrow the knowledge gaps on the underlying mechanisms. It would shed light on the investigation of environmental implications and applications of MNMs-algae interactions and meet the increasing demand for sustainable nanotechnology development.

Microalgae as a potential natural source for the green synthesis of nanoparticles

“…13,29 Therefore, they are the main organism's that are aquatic producers of oxygen in ecosystems (through photosynthesis). 30 Algae are classified into microalgae and macroalgae. 31 It is estimated that the number of species of algae is between one and ten million, and the majority are composed of microalgae.…”

Evidence of Indoor Dust Acting as Carrier for Metal-Based Nanoparticles: A Study of Exposure and Oxidative Risks

“…The indoor dust-associated MNPs could enter and bioaccumulate in the human respiratory system (i.e., lung) , via inhalation. Because of their unique physicochemical properties (e.g., high reactivity and oxidative potential), MNPs can trigger extracellular and/or intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, , which may damage the cell membrane and induce oxidation of cellular components (e.g., lipid peroxidation). , Long-term exposure to MNPs may cause cytotoxicity and even chronic alveolar inflammation of lung cells. , In addition, MNPs could be translocated to other organs (e.g., lymphatic system and liver) in the human body. For example, magnetic MNPs, rather than their dissolved metal compounds, can bypass the blood–brain barrier, which poses a significant threat to human health (e.g., causing neurodegenerative diseases) .…”

“…Because of their unique physicochemical properties (e.g., high reactivity 20 and oxidative potential 21 ), MNPs can trigger extracellular and/or intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, 14,22 which may damage the cell membrane and induce oxidation of cellular components (e.g., lipid peroxidation). 23,24 Long-term exposure to MNPs may cause cytotoxicity and even chronic alveolar inflammation of lung cells. 25,26 In addition, MNPs could be translocated to other organs (e.g., lymphatic system and liver) 27 in the human body.…”

Catfish as an Ecotoxicological Model for Assessment of Nanoparticle Toxicity Profiling

“…This process (size reduction) increases the surface-to-volume ratio (thus surface energy), biological efficiency, and adsorption capacity of the obtained product. In addition, its chemical/physical (such as diffusion, strength, color, solubility, and quantum effects), optical, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties are significantly improved [1,2]. Innovative nanostructured materials and nanocomposites equipped with these superior properties have a wider application area (environment, agriculture, medicine, food, etc.)…”

“…Due to nanotechnological advances, NMs are estimated to be components of more than 2,000 commercial products, and this number is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. However, during the production, carrying, use, and exterminating of these products, NMs are inevitably released into the environment, especially in the waters as the final destination [2]. Keller et al [3] reported that 0.4−7% of these products eventually enter the aquatic environment, assuming that there is approximately 309,000 tons of NM production globally.…”