A review on the combined toxicological effects of microplastics and their attached pollutants

Mengzhen Li (Co-first Author), Wenhao Ma (Co-first Author), James Kar Hei Fang, Jiezhang Mo, Lei Li, Min Pan, Rong Li*, Xiaoyun Zeng*, Keng Po Lai*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

    2 Citations (Scopus)
    12 Downloads (CityUHK Scholars)

    Abstract

    As an emerging environmental pollutant, microplastics (MPs) can adsorb various contaminants, including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). This ability stems from their small size and high specific surface area. Once adsorbed, the adherents can act in combination with MPs to produce synergistic toxic effects when they enter organisms through MPs, exacerbating their toxicity when introduced into organisms. This review examines the toxicological effects of the combination of different MPs and environmental pollutants on terrestrial and marine invertebrates, vertebrates, and microorganisms. In conclusion, the combined toxicological effects of MPs and their attachment to organisms are complex and multilayered. Existing studies have identified certain underlying mechanisms, underscoring the need for societies and governments to account for the combined toxic effects of MPs and their associated pollutants. © 2025 The Authors
    Original languageEnglish
    Article number100486
    JournalEmerging Contaminants
    Volume11
    Issue number2
    Online published26 Feb 2025
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jun 2025

    Research Keywords

    • Aquatic
    • Combined toxicity
    • Invertebrates
    • Microplastics
    • Pollutants
    • Terrestrial
    • Vertebrates

    Publisher's Copyright Statement

    • This full text is made available under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

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