The invisible Threat: Assessing the reproductive and transgenerational impacts of micro- and nanoplastics on fish

• DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108432
• Publication Date: 2024-01-06T16:20:36Z
• Authors: Jia Yi; Yilei Ma; Jing Ruan; Si You; Jiahui Ma; Haiyang Yu; Jing Zhao; Kun Zhang; Qinsi Yang; Libo Jin; Guoming Zeng; Da Sun
• Keywords: Transgenerational epigenetics; Environmental toxicology; Reproductive toxicity

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), emerging as pervasive environmental pollutants, present multifaceted threats to diverse ecosystems. This review critically examines the ability of MNPs traverse biological barriers in fish, leading their accumulation gonadal tissues subsequent reproductive toxicity. A focal concern is potential transgenerational harm, where offspring not directly exposed exhibit toxic effects. Characterized by extensive specific surface areas marked hydrophobicity, readily adsorb concentrate other contaminants, potentially intensifying comprehensive analysis aims provide profound insights into repercussions on fish health progeny, highlighting intricate interplay between pollutants. We delve mechanisms MNPs-induced toxicity, including histopathologic alterations, oxidative stress, disruptions hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The also underscores urgency for future research explore size-specific dynamics long-term implications chronic exposure. Understanding these aspects crucial assessing ecological risks posed formulating strategies safeguard aquatic life.