The direct effects of micro- and nanoplastics on rice and wheat

Abstract

Micro

and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging environmental pollutants that have caused widespread concern. Notably, MNPs can be absorbed by plants such as vital staple crops, rice and wheat, which affects their growth. This review summarizes related studies and reveals that MNPs can be absorbed through the roots of rice and wheat, inhibiting the uptake of water and nutrients, inducing oxidative stress, disrupting photosynthesis, affecting gene expression, and altering metabolic pathways. These effects ultimately affect the yield and quality of wheat and rice, threatening food safety and human health. Furthermore, various factors that influence the effects of MNPs are discussed, and gaps and future research directions are highlighted. In summary, this review provides valuable insights into the direct effects of MNPs on rice and wheat and will benefit future studies which investigating the impact of MNPs on vital grains.