A 3D-QSAR model for the comprehensive bioenrichment and biodegradation effect of benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilisers and application of the model in molecular modification

Ultraviolet (UV) absorber, a type of light stabiliser, has received considerable attention because of its high bioenrichment ability and low biodegradability. In this study, benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilisers (BUVSs) were used as the research object, and the bioenrichment and biodegradation data of 13 types of BUVS molecules were subjected to dimensionless processing through quartile data transformation. Additionally, a three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) model was constructed for the investigation of the comprehensive effect of molecular bioenrichment and biodegradation of BUVSs, and improved derivative molecules were designed. Furthermore, the validity of the model was predicted using EPI simulation software, and finally, the biodegradability of BUVSs and their bioenrichment and biological effect before and after modification in the food chain and in the aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in sewage were analysed through the molecular docking technology. A total of 10 derivatives with reduced enrichment ability and enhanced degradability were designed using the CoMFA model analysis (reduction: combined effect value, 0.32-20.55%; log BCF, 2.37-17.59%; and log HL, 0.47-16.94%). Molecular docking showed that the bioenrichment ability of two derivative molecules in the four organisms was decreased by 1.87-27.67%, and the biodegradation ability of four derivative molecules in the three sewage bacteria was enhanced by 1.60-33.38% compared with those before modification. The molecular modification method of UV absorbent developed in this study provides a new perspective for further studies on environment-friendly UV absorbent and helps reduce the risks of these emerging pollutants on the environment and human body.

Automated summary

This study focused on benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilisers (BUVSs) and constructed a 3D-QSAR model to design derivatives with reduced bioenrichment ability and enhanced biodegradability. Molecular docking tests revealed decreased bioenrichment ability and increased biodegradation ability of some derivatives. The developed molecular modification method provides a new perspective for researching environmentally friendly UV absorbents and reducing the risks of these emerging pollutants on the environment and human health.