Metabolic response of earthworms (Pheretima guillemi) to silver nanoparticles in sludge-amended soil

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can enter soils via the application of sludge and pose risks to soil invertebrates. However, current knowledge regarding the toxicity of AgNPs at environmentally relevant concentration is insufficient, especially at the molecular level. Therefore, we examined the effects of low-level AgNPs (7.2 mg kg(-1), dry weight) on the bioaccumulation, pathology and metabolism of earthworms (Pheretima guillemi). After exposure for 28 d, earthworms were dissected into digestive system and the rest of the body to explore the response of different body parts to AgNPs. Ag concentration in the digestive system of exposed group (2.5 mg kg(-1), dry weight) was significantly higher than that of the control group (0.5 mg kg(-1), dry weight). AgNPs exposure had no significant effects on the survival and growth, but induced intestinal damage and metabolic interference to earthworms relative to the control. Metabolomics analysis showed that AgNPs exposure disturbed the glycerophospholipid metabolism, glutathione metabolism and energy metabolism in the digestive system and the energy metabolism in the rest of the body. AgNPs exposure also induced lipid peroxidation in the digestive system. The different metabolic responses between two body parts highlighted the importance of the uptake routes of Ag. These results provide a biochemical insight for the risk assessment of low-level AgNPs in terrestrial environment.

Automated summary

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in soil pose risks to soil invertebrates, but the toxicity of AgNPs at environmentally relevant concentrations is not well understood. This study investigated the effects of low-level AgNPs on the bioaccumulation, pathology, and metabolism of earthworms. The results showed that AgNPs exposure disturbed the metabolism of different body parts and induced intestinal damage in earthworms. The findings provide biochemical insights for the risk assessment of low-level AgNPs in terrestrial environments.