Author Affiliation: LCWC

Journal: Compilation

Document contains links to various sources for articles on microplastics.

Neila Gross,1 Johnathan Muhvich,2 Carly Ching,2 Bridget Gomez,2 Evan Horvath,2 Yanina Nahum,3 Muhammad H. Zaman2,3

Author Affiliation:

1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachu­ setts, USA

2Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

3Center on Forced Displacement, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Journal: Applied and Environmental Microbiology

Abstract:

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a significant environmental pollu­ tant with profound implications for public health, particularly as substrates to facili­ tate bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Recently, studies have shown that MPs may accommodate biofilm communities, chemical contaminants, and genetic mate­ rial containing AMR genes. This study investigated the effects of MP concentration, composition, and size on the development of multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli. Specifically, we exposed E. coli to varying concentrations of different MP types, including polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene, across a range of sizes (3–10, 10–50, and 500 µm). Results indicated that the biofilm cells attached to MPs had elevated multidrug resistance (in E. coli. Notably, MPs exhibited a higher propensity for facilitating biofilm and resistance than control substrates such as glass, likely due to their hydropho­ bicity, greater adsorption capacities, and surface chemistries. Notably, we found that the bacteria passaged with MPs formed stronger biofilms once the MPs were removed, which was associated with changes in motility. Thus, MPs select cells that are better at forming biofilms, which can lead to biofilm-associated AMR and recalcitrant infections in the environment and healthcare setting. Our study highlights the importance of developing effective strategies to address the challenges posed by MPs.

Author Affiliation: LCWC

Journal: LCWC Report March 2025; Overview of Plastic Waste and Their Impact on Our Enviroment

Abstract:

This is an overview of the pervasive nature of plastic waste, its environmental and health impacts as well as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. Plastics are widely used in various commodities, but they pose a significant environmental problem due to their long-lasting nature and the large volume of over 400 million tons of plastic waste generated annually around the globe. Microscopic plastic breakdown particles, nanometers in size, contaminate air, soil, and water, and have been found in human organs, potentially causing health issues. Single-use plastics make up about 45% of all plastic waste. Measures that can be taken by individuals and communities to limit exposure to single-use plastics include reducing purchase of pre-packaged foods, using water filters and improving municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities. Developing alternatives to petroleum-based plastics using packaging materials from natural ingredients such as seaweed and polysaccharides can help reduce environmental plastic contamination and offer cost-competitive solutions.