Influence of microplastics on the accumulation and chronic toxic effects of cadmium in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

• Published in: Chemosphere (Oxford) Vol. 202; pp. 514 - 520
• Main Authors: Lu, Kai, Qiao, Ruxia, An, Hao, Zhang, Yan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.07.2018
• Subjects: Chronic toxicity; Combined exposure; Heavy metal; Microplastics; Zebrafish; Zebrafish; Microplastics; Chronic toxicity; Combined exposure; Heavy metal
• ISSN: 0045-6535; 1879-1298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.03.145

As the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the environment continues to rise, more concerns focus on the health risk of combined exposure to MPs and other contaminants. The aim of this study is to investigate the influences of MPs on the tissue-accumulation of cadmium (Cd) in zebrafish and explore the related chronic toxic effects induced by combined exposure of Cd and MPs. After co-exposure to MPs and Cd for 3 weeks, 20 and 200 μg/L MPs increased the accumulation of Cd in zebrafish livers (46% and 184%), guts (10% and 25%) and gills (9% and 46%). The Cd accumulation was gill > gut > liver. Comprehensive analyzes of biochemical biomarkers, histopathological observation and functional gene expression firstly demonstrated that the presence of MPs enhanced the toxicity of Cd on zebrafish and the combined exposure caused oxidative damage and inflammation in zebrafish tissues. Collectively, our results highlight the chronic effects of combined exposure to MPs and heavy metals. [Display omitted] •MPs increased the accumulation of Cd in livers, guts and gills of zebrafish.•MPs enhanced the toxicity of Cd in fish tissues.•Co-exposure to Cd and MPs induced oxidative damage and inflammation in zebrafish.