TiO2 nanoparticles enhanced bioaccumulation and toxic performance of PAHs via trophic transfer

Engineering nanoparticles (NPs) could act as accumulator and carrier of co-contaminants, affecting their fate and toxicity in environments. However, the effects of NPs on the bioaccumulation and trophic transfer of cocontaminants through the food chain and the ensuing effects on higher predators are unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nTiO(2)) on the trophic transfer of phenanthrene (Phe) from prey Artemia salina to predator Scophthalmus maximus. We also evaluated the ensuing toxic performance of Phe in S. maximus after been transferred from A. salina in the presence and absence of nTiO(2). The presence of nTiO(2) significantly (p < 0.05) increased Phe accumulation in A. salina with higher bioconcentration factor (BCF) up to 90.9 than that of 38.6 in Phe exposure along. After trophic transfer, nTiO(2) (1 mg/L) also promoted the bioaccumulation of Phe (1 mu g/L) in predator S. maximus from 4.17 mg/kg to 7.85 mg/kg (dry weight). However, nTiO(2) did not enhance the trophic transfer of Phe from A. salina to S. maximus since the biological magnification factor (BMF) decreased from 0.13 to 0.08. Nevertheless, the nTiO(2)-enhanced bioaccumulation of Phe did enhance Phe toxicity performance in predator S. maximus after trophic transfer, showing significant (p < 0.05) growth inhibition and changes of nutrient status in the predator, compared to those of the control. Further physio-biochemical investigations suggested that oxidative stress and inhibition of digestive functions might explain the growth inhibition in treatment with nTiO(2) + Phe. This study demonstrates the first evidence that NP-enhanced bioaccumulation and toxic performance of co-existing pollutants across trophic transfer, which poses potential risks to marine ecosystems, and ultimately human health by seafood consumption.

Automated summary

The study demonstrates that nanoparticles enhance the bioaccumulation and toxic effects of co-existing pollutants during trophic transfer, posing potential risks to marine ecosystems and human health through seafood consumption.