Transport, availability and ecotoxicology of nanoparticles in the environment: interactions with natural organic matter in aquatic systems

Abstract

When introduced into the environment, nanoparticles (NPs) are covered by biotic and abiotic molecules, yielding a transformed NP usually coated these molecules. These are new forms of the NPs should be considered as new materials with different properties. In fact, this transformation in situ NP, has decisive impacts on the toxicological effects of NPs, and thus can serve as additional risk predictions unexplored. The project aims to determine, understand and predict the impact of natural molecules in the transformations of Ag NPs, widely used as antibacterial agents, and their effects on ecosystems. In fact, despite the growing interest and use of NPs, little is known about the environmental consequences of its application, since most studies do not consider the effect of the presence of natural coatings around the particles. To overcome the current uncertainties about the environmental safety of NPs and explore first the impact of natural molecules, the project objectives are: I) detailed characterization of Ag NPs coated and uncoated manufactured in the absence and presence of natural molecules, including humic (HS) and extracellular polymer substances (EPS), II) determining the biocompatible effects of NPs or bioadversos models transformed into water freshwater alga Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata microcrustacean Ceriodaphnia dubia and, III) identification of key signatures of natural molecules that affect the fate and biocompatibility of the NPs, and IV) evaluation of the transfer of NPs transformed into algae-microcrustacean food chain. The project will allow a standardized assessment of nanotoxicology and strengthened in order to increase the competitiveness of the nanotechnology industry. (AU)