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Antimony concentration associated with microplastics in limpets (Patella vulgata)
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Resumo(s)
Antimony (Sb) is an emerging pollutant of concern in aquatic environments owing to its bioaccumulation and toxicity. Although naturally occurring in trace amounts, human activities such as mining and industrial use have significantly increased environmental Sb levels. Sb is widely used in plastics and electronics and is often found in rubber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS) as flame-retardant synergists. It can persist through recycling and incineration, posing risks to ecosystems and human health. Sb₂O₃ is classified as a possible carcinogen; however, its toxic effects, including oxidative stress and DNA damage, remain unclear. Plastic pollution has escalated globally, with microplastics (MPs) forming through the degradation and accumulation of plastic waste in marine ecosystems. These MPs can adsorb metalloids, such as antimony, facilitating their transport and entry into the food web. This study aimed to assess the effects of chronic exposure (28 days) to PET and polyester microplastics, Sb, and their combined exposure to the marine limpet, Patella vulgata. The bioaccumulation of Sb in the limpets was analyzed after exposure. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), phenoloxidase activity (PO), HSP70, SIRT1, and the 20S proteasome subunits α and β5 were analyzed to evaluate oxidative stress, immune response, and proteostasis. The results showed that limpets exposed to PET + Sb accumulated higher Sb concentrations, possibly because of Sb adsorption by PET particles. Polyester + Sb led to oxidative stress, as reflected by SOD inhibition, while PO activity increased, indicating an impact on the redox balance. Slight variations in HSP70, SIRT1, and β5 expression levels suggest an impact on protein homeostasis. Overall, combined exposure to MPs and Sb elicited more pronounced biological responses than individual exposure. Patella vulgata has proven to be a sensitive bioindicator for assessing the ecotoxicological effects of MPs and Sb in marine environments.
Descrição
Tese de Mestrado, Ciências do Mar, 2025, Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências
Palavras-chave
Antimony Microplastics Patella vulgata Oxidative stress Bioindicator