Ecotoxicological effects of polystyrene nanoplastics on common carp: Insights into blood parameters, DNA damage, and gene expression

Abstract

Plastics are ubiquitous in modern society due to their cost-effectiveness, lightweight nature, and versatility. However, their extensive use and inadequate recycling have led to a significant environmental challenge, with plastic waste accumulating rapidly and causing ecological and health problems, especially in aquatic environments. Nanoplastics, particles ranging from 1 to 100 nm, have emerged as a particularly concerning subset due to their ability to easily penetrate biological barriers and accumulate in tissues. In this study, we investigated the toxicity of carboxylate-modified polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on common carp (Cyprinus carpio), a species often used in ecotoxicology research due to its ability to accumulate pollutants. The PS-NPs were characterized, and their effects on DNA damage gene expression related to oxidative stress and immunity were examined. PS-NPs with a diameter of 20–30 nm were found to possess a spherical shape and negatively charged surfaces. Exposure to PS-NPs led to significant DNA damage in the blood and brain cells of common carp, with higher concentrations resulting in more severe damage. Additionally, PS-NP exposure influenced the expression of genes related to antioxidative defense and stress response in the liver. Specifically, genes encoding superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) showed upregulation, while glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) exhibited downregulation at higher PS-NP concentrations. Furthermore, the immune-related genes interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) displayed dose-dependent downregulation in the liver tissue. These findings suggest that exposure to PS-NPs induces oxidative stress, disrupts immune responses, and causes DNA damage in common carp. The results highlight the need for further research on the environmental impacts of PS-NPs and underscore the importance of proper waste management and recycling practices to mitigate plastic pollution.