Are bio-based and biodegradable microplastics impacting for blue mussel (Mytilus edulis)

The substitution of petrochemical plastics by bio-based and biodegradable plastics are in need of an evaluation for the potential toxic impacts that they can have on marine wildlife. This study aims to assess the toxicological effects of polylactic acid microparticles at two concentrations, 10 and 100 mu g/L, during 8 days on the blue mussel, Mytilus edulis. No significant oxidative stress (catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and superoxide dismutase activities), neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase), or immunotoxicity (lysosomal membrane stability and acid phosphatase activity) were detectable. The multivariate analysis of metabolomic data allowed us to differentiate the individuals according to the exposure. From the loading plot of OPLS-DA, 48 ions downregulated in the individuals exposed to microplastics. They were identified based on HRMS data as glycerophospholipids.

Automated summary

The toxicological effects of polylactic acid microparticles on blue mussels were evaluated in this study, showing no significant oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, or immunotoxicity. Multivariate analysis of metabolomic data allowed differentiation of individuals based on exposure, with downregulation of glycerophospholipids identified in individuals exposed to microplastics.