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Throughout the past decade, many studies have reported adverse effects in biota following microplastic exposure. Yet, the field is still emerging as the current understanding of microplastic toxicity is limited. At the same time, recent legislative mandates have required environmental regulators to devise strategies to mitigate microplastic polluti...
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... The toxicity of Microplastics Explorer (ToMEx) Aquatic Organism Database (https://microplastics.sccwrp.org), is an extensive ecological toxicity database for MPs that was developed in 2022 (SCCWRP 2022; Thornton Hampton et al. 2022). This database contains information from over 160 manuscripts with 5,853 data entries (i.e., rows of data) focused on the environmental toxicity of MPs from 2008 to 2020, with plans for updating the database in May 2023 to include new manuscripts published from 2020 to early 2023 (Thornton Hampton et al. 2022;SCCWRP 2022). ...
... The toxicity of Microplastics Explorer (ToMEx) Aquatic Organism Database (https://microplastics.sccwrp.org), is an extensive ecological toxicity database for MPs that was developed in 2022 (SCCWRP 2022; Thornton Hampton et al. 2022). This database contains information from over 160 manuscripts with 5,853 data entries (i.e., rows of data) focused on the environmental toxicity of MPs from 2008 to 2020, with plans for updating the database in May 2023 to include new manuscripts published from 2020 to early 2023 (Thornton Hampton et al. 2022;SCCWRP 2022). Information contained in the database includes characteristics and information relevant to MPs and NPs (e.g. ...
... mass/mL) ToMEx provides estimates for items or particles/mL based on reported particle characteristics (e.g. density, length and width to calculate volume) from the manuscript to estimate particle concentrations (Thornton Hampton et al. 2022). ...
There is international focus on global plastic pollution and the subsequent weathering and distribution of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment, including human health and ecological concerns. Consequently, there is a rapidly growing body of data reporting environmental exposures (e.g., particle concentrations, size, shape, etc.) and ecotoxicological effects data. However, there is a need to capture and communicate this information for freshwater and marine environments to appropriately inform potential risks and actionable decisions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for dredging and disposing or beneficially utilizing several hundred million cubic yards of shoaled sediments annually. Yet, no clear strategy exists to inform plastic risks in shoaled sediments that require dredging. Therefore, the USACE needs decision frameworks, tools and approaches to proactively address detection, exposure and hazard to communicate the relative risks associated with MPs and NPs in dredged sediments. The objectives of this research are to conduct a literature review of 1) MP and NP occurrence and abundance in sediments relevant to dredging operations, 2) ecotoxicity data associated with MP and NP exposures to organisms of interest for dredged sediment evaluations. Median MP sediment concentrations reported in aquatic ecosystems from lowest to highest were: natural lakes and reservoirs (89 items/kg) < estuarine (196 items/kg) < riverine (273 items/kg) < marine (357 items/kg) < Great Lakes (1,716 items/kg). To better understand the relative sensitivities of organisms commonly used in dredging evaluations, the reviewed ecotoxicological data (e.g., lowest observed effect concentrations (LOECs) and lethal median concentrations (LC50s)) were used to calculate species sensitivity distributions of five invertebrates and one green alga. Based on species sensitivity distributions, the most to least sensitive organisms were Palaemonetes pugio (grass shrimp) > Ceriodaphnia dubia (Cladoceran Crustacean) = Hyalella azteca (Amphipod Crustacean) > Daphnia pulex (Cladoceran Crustacean) > Raphidocelis subcapitata (green algae) > Daphnia magna (Cladoceran Crustacean). Notable data gaps exist for MPs and NPs including limited ecotoxicity data for marine species, NP concentrations in sediments and NP ecotoxicity data. The results from this literature review are the first step towards development of proactive communication tools and decision support documents for MP and NP contamination in dredged sediment.
... Risks at a planetary level are becoming clearer as the understanding of microplastic toxicity in aquatic ecosystems and human health is growing. 107 Plastics are now reaching all food webs, 108 drinking water, 109 breast milk, 110 human placenta, 111 lung tissue, 112 and the bloodstream. 113 Disposed plastics are also enhancing the spread and severity of vector-borne diseases (e.g., dengue, malaria, zika), 114 which are expected to worsen in combination with rising temperatures and climate change. ...
... Similarly, data that report microplastics > 300 µm are unlikely to give a complete picture of hazards, since the danger from smaller particles cannot be assessed (e.g. Thornton Hampton et al., 2022b). ...
A large body of literature is available quantifying microplastic contamination in freshwater and marine systems across the globe. “Microplastics” do not represent a single analyte. Rather, they are usually operationally defined based on their size, polymer and shape, dependent on the sample collection method and the analytical range of the measurement technique. In the absence of standardised methods, significant variability and uncertainty remains as to how to compare data from different sources and so consider exposure correctly. To examine the issue, a previously compiled database containing 1603 marine observations and 208 freshwater observations of microplastic concentrations from across the globe between 1971 and 2020 was analysed. Reported concentrations span nine orders of magnitude. Investigating the relationship between sampling methods and reported concentrations, a striking correlation between smaller sample unit volumes and higher microplastic concentrations was observed. Many studies scored poorly in quality scoring protocols according to the sample size taken. It is critical that sufficient particles are measured in a sample to reduce the errors from random chance. Given the inverse relationship with particle size and abundance, the volume required for a representative sample should be calculated case-by-case, based on what size microplastics are under investigation and where they are being measured. Here we have developed the Representative Sample Volume Predictor (RSVP) tool, which standardises statistical prediction of sufficient sample volumes to ensure microplastics are detected with a given level of confidence. Reviewing reports in freshwater, we found ~12% of observations reported sample volumes which would have a false negative error rate >5%. Such sample volumes run the risk of wrongly concluding that microplastics are absent in samples and are not sufficient to be quantitative. The RSVP tool also provides a harmonised Poisson point process estimation of confidence intervals to test whether two observations are likely to be significantly different, even in the absence of replication. In this way, we demonstrate application of the tool to evaluate historic data but also to assist in new study designs to ensure that environmental microplastic exposure data is relevant and reliable. It can also be applied to other data for randomly dispersed events in space or time, and so has potential as a transdisciplinary tool.
... Furthermore, being a global issue with transboundary implications, it is essential that this challenge is addressed on a global level (Wagner, 2022;Bergmann et al., 2022;Dey et al., 2022). The PlastChem database, now publicly available to researchers and regulators, can be viewed as a starting point for harmonizing information and adopting a precautionary approach for plastic chemicals used globally (Wagner et al., 2024), as can globally sourced databases such as ToMEx, specifically focused on MNP toxicity (Hampton et al., 2022a;Hampton et al., 2022b;Hampton et al., 2022c). Agreement across nations on how to approach hazardous and/or redundant chemicals that serve the same purpose (e.g. ...
The ubiquitous and global ecological footprint arising from the rapidly increasing rates of plastic production, use, and release into the environment is an important modern environmental issue. Of increasing concern are the risks associated with at least 16,000 chemicals present in plastics, some of which are known to be toxic, and which may leach out both during use and once exposed to environmental conditions, leading to environmental and human exposure. In response, the United Nations member states agreed to establish an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, the global plastics treaty. The resolution acknowledges that the treaty should prevent plastic pollution and its related impacts, that effective prevention requires consideration of the
transboundary nature of plastic production, use and pollution, and that the full life cycle of plastics must be addressed. As a group of scientific experts and members of the Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, we concur that there are six essential “pillars” necessary to truly reduce plastic pollution and allow for chemical detoxification across the full life cycle of plastics. These include a plastic chemical reduction and simplification, safe and sustainable design of plastic chemicals, incentives for change, holistic approaches for alternatives, just transition and equitable interventions, and centering human rights. There is a critical need for scientifically informed and globally harmonized information, transparency, and traceability criteria to protect the environment
and public health. The right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment must be upheld, and thus it is crucial that scientists, industry, and policy makers work in concert to create a future free from hazardous plastic contamination.
... This disruption can impede the repair mechanisms of cells, exacerbating DNA damage accumulation. Unrepaired DNA damage can lead to mutations in critical genes regulating cell growth and proliferation, fostering the uncontrolled cell division characteristic of cancer [7,57]. ...
... Moreover, the small size and high surface area-tovolume ratio of microplastic particles enhance their capacity to adsorb and concentrate environmental pollutants, including carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals [57,89]. These adsorbed pollutants can be released upon ingestion or inhalation of microplastics, exposing intestinal cells and tissues to additional carcinogenic insults. ...
In today’s world, the widespread presence of microplastics is undeniable, with concentrations found in various environments, including up to 1000 particles per liter in seawater and up to 10 particles per cubic meter in the atmosphere. Originating from diverse sources, both intentional and unintentional, these minuscule fragments, measuring less than 5 mm, pose significant threats to environmental and human health. Recent research has uncovered a concerning link between microplastics and cancer, prompting urgent investigation. Studies demonstrate microplastics can infiltrate cells, disrupt biological processes, and potentially foster carcinogenic environments. From inducing DNA damage and oxidative stress to triggering inflammatory responses and dysregulating cellular pathways, microplastics exhibit a multifaceted capability in contributing to cancer development. Furthermore, microplastics act as carriers for a range of contaminants, compounding their impact on human health. Their accumulation within tissues and organs raises concerns for short and long-term health consequences, including chronic diseases, reproductive issues, and developmental abnormalities. This review explores the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between microplastics and cellular systems, providing insights into routes of exposure and health effects, with a focus on lung, skin, and digestive system cancers. As we confront this pressing environmental and public health challenge, a deeper understanding of the microplastic-cancer relationship is crucial to safeguarding the well-being of present and future generations.
... The ToMeX database is typically used for assessing MPs effects on aquatic organisms and human health but has yet to be adapted to terrestrial ecosystem. ToMeX includes a platform for data, extracted from studies, and also specific approach for datamining and literature searches(Thornton Hampton et al., 2022). Datamining and literature review approaches were adapted for the terrestrial ecosystem in this study. ...
This study conceptualizes a framework for ecological risk assessment of microplastics (MPs) in agricultural soils amended with biosolids. MPs in biosolids pose risks to soil biota, affecting soil health. The study highlights the complexity of assessing MP risks, considering not only MPs abundance, but also properties such as size, shape, and type. To develop this framework for ecological risk assessment of MPs in agricultural soils amended with biosolids, a literature review was conducted to systematically assess effects of different MPs properties on soil organisms. Earthworms, springtails, and the microbiome were considered as receptors. The study highlights the importance of understanding MPs fate in soil, since effects on soil biota can be time dependent. Furthermore, results show that organisms respond differently to similar MPs properties, increasing the complexity of assessing MPs risks in terrestrial ecosystems. This complexity also relates to MPs effects on soil properties, and indirect effects on soil biota. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps for effects of specific MPs properties to better assess and manage ecological risks in agricultural systems.
... are widely used in acute and chronic standard toxicity tests [26,27]. Daphnia magna is the most tested aquatic invertebrate species in studies investigating the ecotoxicological effects of MNP on organisms (see [28] and the Toxicity of Microplastics Explorer (ToMEx) database: [29]). ...
... Although Daphnia is among the most frequently used organisms in ecotoxicological research on MNP effects [28,29]), we found only 13 studies (published until December 2022) that met our selection criteria and allowed for the extraction of effect size data. For the successful inclusion in future meta-analyses, studies investigating the moderating effects of DOM on MNP toxicity need to: (1) include an appropriate control treatment which differs only in the absence of DOM while all other parameters are kept the same as in the DOM treatment, (2) either report measurement results as means together with an uncertainty measure (standard deviation, standard error or confidence interval) or provide the complete raw data in the supplementary online material or elsewhere and (3) clearly report the number of replicates (i.e., number of independent test vials) and the number of individuals tested per replicates for all treatments. ...
Effects of micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNP) on organisms have been increasingly reported in recent years, with a large number of studies conducted on water fleas of the genus Daphnia. Most of the available studies used pristine particles that have not been exposed to the environment or to organic substances. In natural environments, however, organic substances like dissolved organic matter (DOM) attach to the MNP, forming an ecocorona on the particles’ surface. How the formation of an ecocorona influences MNP toxicity is still uncertain. While some studies suggest that DOM can mitigate the negative effects of MNP on organisms, other studies did not find such associations. In addition, it is unclear whether the DOM attached to the particles’ surface attenuates the effects of MNP directly or whether co-exposure with DOM solved in the medium attenuates MNP toxicity indirectly, for instance by increasing Daphnia‘s resilience to stressors in general. To draw more solid conclusions about the direction and size of the mediating effect of DOM on MNP-associated immobilization in Daphnia spp., we synthesized evidence from the published literature and compiled 305 data points from 13 independent studies. The results of our meta-analysis show that the toxic effects of MNP are likely reduced in the presence of certain types of DOM in the exposure media. We found similar mediating effects when MNP were incubated in media containing DOM before the exposure experiments, although to a lesser extent. Future studies designed to disentangle the effects of DOM attached to the MNP from the general effects of DOM in the exposure medium will contribute to a deeper mechanistic understanding of MNP toxicity in nature and enhance the reliability of MNP risk assessment.
Graphical Abstract
... A critical component toward improving this understanding involves comprehensively documenting MPcharacteristics such as size, morphology, polymer type, and toxicity. Collating this information in resources like the MP-SED and ToMEx (Thornton Hampton et al. 2022) databases is important to help inform future risk assessments for plastics in sediments. ...
Microplastics (MPs) accumulate in sediments, yet guidelines for evaluating MP risks in dredged sediments are lacking. The objective of this study was to review existing literature on MPs in sediments to improve fundamental knowledge of MP exposures and develop a publicly available database of MPs in sediments. Twelve percent of the reviewed papers (nine studies) included sediment core samples with MP concentrations generally decreasing with depth, peaking in the top 15 cm. The remaining papers evaluated surficial grab samples (0 to 15 cm depth) from various water bodies with MPs detected in almost every sample. Median MP concentrations (items/kg dry sediment) increased in this order: lakes and reservoirs (184), estuarine (263), Great Lakes nearshore areas and tributaries (290), riverine (410), nearshore marine areas (487), dredge activities (817), and harbors (948). Dredging of recurrent shoaling sediments could be expected to contain MPs at various depths with concentrations influenced by the time elapsed since the last dredging event. These results offer key insights into the presence and variability of MPs in dredged sediments, informing environmental monitoring and risk assessment strategies.
... The effect of the ζ-potential of microplastic particles on their interactions with cells and organisms is even less clear. Of 216 studies about possible effects of microplastics for aquatic or mammalian models currently listed in the ToMEx database, only 17% provided the ζ-potential of the microplastic particles 51 . Furthermore, despite the indications for a role of the ζ-potential for cellular interactions and the seemingly contradictory results in microplastic cytotoxicity studies, the role of the ζ-potential has not yet been systematically investigated for otherwise identical microplastic particles. ...
Due to the abundance of microplastics in the environment, research about its possible adverse effects is increasing exponentially. Most studies investigating the effect of microplastics on cells still rely on commercially available polystyrene microspheres. However, the choice of these model microplastic particles can affect the outcome of the studies, as even nominally identical model microplastics may interact differently with cells due to different surface properties such as the surface charge. Here, we show that nominally identical polystyrene microspheres from eight different manufacturers significantly differ in their ζ-potential, which is the electrical potential of a particle in a medium at its slipping plane. The ζ-potential of the polystyrene particles is additionally altered after environmental exposure. We developed a microfluidic microscopy platform to demonstrate that the ζ-potential determines particle-cell adhesion strength. Furthermore, we find that due to this effect, the ζ-potential also strongly determines the internalization of the microplastic particles into cells. Therefore, the ζ-potential can act as a proxy of microplastic-cell interactions and may govern adverse effects reported in various organisms exposed to microplastics.
... Microplastics, defined as plastics with a particle length of less than 5 mm, are ubiquitous in aquatic environments [1][2][3][4][5] and potentially pose risks to the environment as well as human health [6][7][8][9]. The number of laboratory studies reporting ecotoxicity of microplastics to biological species has been growing as researchers try to better understand and infer the ecological impacts on aquatic ecosystems [5,10,11]. To assess and manage ecological risk based on such ecotoxicity data, it is important to derive predicted no effect concentrations (PNECs) below which adverse ecological impacts of concern are unlikely to occur. ...
... In this study, we used a recently created ecotoxicity database for microplastics (Toxicity of Microplastics Explorer [ToMEx]; [11]) to estimate SSDs that quantitatively consider the influences of three types of microplastic characteristics (i.e., particle size/length, particle shape, and polymer type) and the habitat of test species (i.e., freshwater vs. marine) by using Bayesian modeling. A previous application of Bayesian hierarchical modeling to SSDs was based on a limited number of chronic lowest observed effect concentrations (LOECs; n = 26) for spherical microplastics [17]. ...
... All of the ecotoxicity data used in this study were acquired from the ToMEx Aquatic Organisms database on 10 August 2022 (https://microplastics.sccwrp. org; [11]). This database is a comprehensive collection of ecotoxicity data for microplastics, including detailed information on particle length and shape, polymer type, and habitat ("Environment" in the ToMEx database), as well as effect concentrations such as no observed effect concentration (NOEC), LOEC, and 50% effect concentration (EC50). ...
Estimation of a species sensitivity distribution (SSD) by fitting a statistical distribution to ecotoxicity data is a promising approach to deriving “safe” concentrations for microplastics. However, most existing SSDs do not quantitatively consider the diverse characteristics of microplastics, such as particle size and shape. To address this issue, based on 38 mass-based chronic no observed effect concentrations (NOECs) obtained from a recently created database, we estimated SSDs that quantitatively consider the influences of three types of microplastic characteristics (particle length, shape, and polymer type) and habitat of the test species (freshwater vs. marine) by using Bayesian modeling. We selected the best SSD model among all possible models using the widely applicable information criterion. The best SSD model included particle length (range: 0.05–280 μm) and a binary dummy variable corresponding to the fiber shape. Lower chronic NOECs were associated with decreasing particle size and with toxicity tests that included fibers in this model. Combined with the fact that the null model (i.e., an SSD model with no predictor variable) was ranked 27th among the 64 candidate SSD models, our results support the need to incorporate particle characteristics such as length and shape (e.g., fiber) into estimations of SSDs for microplastics. The medians of the hazardous concentration of 5% of species (HC5) for microplastic spheres and fragments, estimated by the posterior distributions of individual parameters in the best SSD model, ranged from 0.02 to 2 µg/L, depending on the particle length (0.1–100 μm). For microplastic fibers, the HC5 values were estimated to be approximately 100 times lower than those for microplastic spheres and fragments with the same particle length. However, the 95% Bayesian credible intervals for HC5 estimates for fibers were considerable, expanded by up to five orders of magnitude. Despite many remaining challenges, the Bayesian SSD modeling utilized in this study provides unique opportunities to simultaneously investigate the influences of multiple microplastic characteristics on the NOECs of multiple species, which would otherwise be difficult to discern.
