Copper Leachability from Cu Nanoparticle-Containing Face Masks and Associated Subcellular Impacts

Abstract

As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, billions of people wear face masks for hours on a daily basis. However, whether hazardous materials released from the face masks might pose potential risks to human health remains mostly unexplored. In particular, nanoparticle-containing face masks have become popular in the market due to their improved antiviral and antibacterial effects. The leachability of nanoparticles and any subsequent toxicity are largely unknown. This study is the first to evaluate the Cu leachability from a face mask containing Cu nanoparticles and the subsequent cytotoxicity of the leachate. We showed that ∼20 μg of Cu in the mask was inhaled, accounting for almost 3% of the total Cu. Moreover, 30–40% of the Cu attached to fibers from the mask could be easily released into solution, and most of the released Cu existed in ionic forms. Cell-based testing indicated that although the leachate did not induce any cytotoxicity, it caused significant Cu stress leading to the exocytosis of lysosomes, changes in glutathione concentration, and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Overall, our results suggest that the leachability of nanoparticle-containing face masks should be carefully assessed, especially considering that most nanoparticle-containing face masks are recommended to be reusable after being washed.

Will the Global Plastics Treaty break the plastic wave? The beginning of a long discussion road

“…However, regarding size, the literature focuses mainly on the adverse impacts of microplastic (MP) pollution (de Sousa 2023b). The literature emphasizes the importance of including MPs and additives in the ongoing negotiations of the Global Plastics Treaty (Dey et al 2022;Landrigan et al 2023b;Maes et al 2023;Wang et al 2023;Wang & Praetorius 2022). Beyond this, plastic influences climate change through greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions https://doi.org/10.1017/plc.2024.14 Published online by Cambridge University Press (Andersen et al 2021) in all the stages of its life (three main stages are comprised in the plastic life cycle: manufacture, use, and disposal (Landrigan et al 2023a)).…”

“…(b) Chemicals incorporated in plastics (Dey et al 2022;Filella & Turner 2023;Grabiel et al 2022;Kurniaty et al 2023;Landrigan et al 2023bLandrigan et al , 2023aMaes et al 2023;Stöfen-O'brien 2022;Tilsted et al 2023;Wang et al 2023;Wang & Praetorius 2022); https://doi.org/10.1017/plc.2024.14 Published online by Cambridge University Press (c) Decrease the chemical complexity of plastic products, establish health-protective criteria for plastics and plastic additives, mandate sustainable, non-toxic materials, ensure full disclosure of all components, and implement traceability of components. International collaboration will be crucial for the implementation and enforcement of these standards (Grabiel et al 2022;Landrigan et al 2023bLandrigan et al , 2023aMaes et al 2023;Tilsted et al 2023;Wang & Praetorius 2022).…”

“…To conclude the treaty by the end of 2024, an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) was stablished, and the negotiations are ongoing. (Tiller & Nyman 2018) (Tiller & Nyman 2018) (Tiller & Nyman 2018) To ensure the success of negotiations such as those of the Global Plastics Treaty and the long-term efficacy of their results, extensive involvement of researchers is essential (Wang et al 2023), even if indirectly. The literature is essential for an in-depth understanding of plastic pollution and its implications (Carratta & Jaeckel 2023), and is the solid basis for discussion and decision-making.…”

The Rise of Electroactive Materials in Face Masks for Preventing Virus Infections

“…Infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses can spread rapidly across the globe, becoming a serious threat to human health and safety. , Vaccines and antiviral drugs have been effective methods for combating epidemic viral diseases. − However, developing new antiviral vaccines or drugs requires long cycles, and the continuous mutation of viruses may lead to vaccine failure. , Since respiratory virus transmission is mainly through contact with respiratory droplets, the World Health Organization recommends wearing masks to protect individuals from infection. , However, most current masks or protective clothing only provide passive protection through a physical barrier and have no virucidal capacity. − The arbitrary removal of used masks in a nonmedical setting increases the cross-infection risk and the reproliferation of viruses. − Therefore, the development of air filter materials for masks with virus-inactivation capabilities is essential.…”