About this Research Topic
Micro- and nanosized plastic particulates, are a diverse group of synthetic substances that are recognized as an increasing environmental problem. Due to the heterogenic nature with respect to emission pathways, particle size, polymer type, and interaction with environmental chemicals and microorganisms, this substance group requires novel approaches to better understand the diverse range of impacts on ecosystem health.
Most of the published research that has investigated the possible ecotoxicity of nanomaterials and microplastics over the last decade has employed procedures involving exposure to substances in controlled scenarios in which the solubility limit is exceeded and in the presence of undissolved material. Relatively little attention has been given to addressing the distinction between intrinsic toxicity and physical effects associated with relevant physical states during exposure. The latter is a fundamental requirement for aquatic toxicology studies used in a regulatory context and for Life Cycle Impact Assessment.
This research topic aims to deliver the latest scientific developments and findings on the toxicology of micro- and nanoplastics exposures with specific focus on new test-methods and approaches that allow for a sensitive and in-depth effect assessment. We welcome submissions that apply or improve alternative testing methodologies such as in vitro toxicity testing and ‘omics’ approaches as well as in silico methods or a combination of these approaches with standard toxicological assays. The research should thereby focus on particles that represent the natural occurring plastic debris rather than less environmentally relevant model particles (e.g. PS beads). A specific emphasis should be placed on (test validation) the understanding of particle specific effects (intrinsic toxicity) in contrast to particle mediated effects of other environmental stressors (ad-/desorption or leaching of chemicals, biofilms). Submissions on methodological advances to create and characterize realistic reference particles plastics are also welcome.
Researchers and experts from diverse disciplines including toxicology, environmental science, chemistry, or computer science are encouraged to contribute their insights, innovative methodologies, and cutting-edge research to broaden our understanding of the toxicology of micro- and nanoplastics.
Most of the published research that has investigated the possible ecotoxicity of nanomaterials and microplastics over the last decade has employed procedures involving exposure to substances in controlled scenarios in which the solubility limit is exceeded and in the presence of undissolved material. Relatively little attention has been given to addressing the distinction between intrinsic toxicity and physical effects associated with relevant physical states during exposure. The latter is a fundamental requirement for aquatic toxicology studies used in a regulatory context and for Life Cycle Impact Assessment.
This research topic aims to deliver the latest scientific developments and findings on the toxicology of micro- and nanoplastics exposures with specific focus on new test-methods and approaches that allow for a sensitive and in-depth effect assessment. We welcome submissions that apply or improve alternative testing methodologies such as in vitro toxicity testing and ‘omics’ approaches as well as in silico methods or a combination of these approaches with standard toxicological assays. The research should thereby focus on particles that represent the natural occurring plastic debris rather than less environmentally relevant model particles (e.g. PS beads). A specific emphasis should be placed on (test validation) the understanding of particle specific effects (intrinsic toxicity) in contrast to particle mediated effects of other environmental stressors (ad-/desorption or leaching of chemicals, biofilms). Submissions on methodological advances to create and characterize realistic reference particles plastics are also welcome.
Researchers and experts from diverse disciplines including toxicology, environmental science, chemistry, or computer science are encouraged to contribute their insights, innovative methodologies, and cutting-edge research to broaden our understanding of the toxicology of micro- and nanoplastics.
Keywords: Microplastics, Nanoplastics, exposure assessment, intrinsic toxicity, mechanism of toxicity, in vitro methods, One Health, environmental impact and risks, mixture toxicology, method harminization
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
