Immunotoxic effects of metal-based nanoparticles in fish and bivalves

Abstract

There is a global research interest in metal nanoparticles (MNPs) due to their diverse applications, rapidly increasing use, and increased presence in the aquatic environment. Currently, most MNPs in the environment are at levels unlikely to cause overt toxicity. Sub-lethal effects that MNPs may induce, notable immunotoxicity, could however have significant health implications. Thus, deciphering the immunological interactions of MNPs with aquatic organisms constitutes a much-needed area of research. In this article, we critically assess the evidence for immunotoxic effects of MNPs in bivalves and fish, as key wildlife sentinels with widely differing ecological niches that are used as models in ecotoxicology. The first part of this review details the properties, fate, and fundamental physicochemical behavior of MNPs in the aquatic ecosystem. We then consider the toxicokinetics of MNP uptake, accumulation, and deposition in fish and bivalves. The main body of the review then focuses on immune reactions in response to MNPs exposure in bivalves and fish illustrating their immunotoxic potential. Finally, we identify major knowledge gaps in our current understanding of the implications of MNPs exposure for immunological functions and the associated health consequences for bivalves and fish, as well as the general lessons learned on the immunotoxic properties of the emerging class of nanoparticulate contaminants in fish and bivalves.

Effect of long-time exposure of green and chemical synthesized silver nanoparticles on antioxidant system and immune action of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer)

“…In another study, Mansour et al reported a decrease in total protein and globulin in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after 28-day exposure to AgNPs (Mansour et al, 2021). Previous studies demonstrated that nano metal base particles such as AgNPs can in uence the immune system via direct and indirect pathways (Fadeel, 2012;Rastgar et al, 2022). These particles can apply direct cytotoxic actions on the immune cells and changes in the immune system reactions such as the production of immune proteins, or these nanoparticles can directly interact with immune proteins such as the complement factors (Rastgar et al, 2022).…”

“…Previous studies demonstrated that nano metal base particles such as AgNPs can in uence the immune system via direct and indirect pathways (Fadeel, 2012;Rastgar et al, 2022). These particles can apply direct cytotoxic actions on the immune cells and changes in the immune system reactions such as the production of immune proteins, or these nanoparticles can directly interact with immune proteins such as the complement factors (Rastgar et al, 2022). Sulfurcontaining macromolecules such as proteins have a strong a nity for both ionic and nano-form of silver (Linhua et al, 2009).…”

“…In sh, AgNPs can enter the body through the skin or food consumption (Rastgar et al, 2022). These particles can be deposited in the cell nucleus of vital organs and can be accumulated in sh gills and liver tissues.…”

Assessing Fish Immunotoxicity by Means of In Vitro Assays: Are We There Yet?

“…The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) concluded that almost all known chemicals seem to impact the immune system of fishes ( 34 ). Also nanoparticles are known to interfere with fish immunity [for review see ( 35 )]. Immune disturbances have been observed worldwide in fish populations living in contaminated habitats [e.g., ( 36 – 40 )].…”

Aquatic organisms modulate the bioreactivity of engineered nanoparticles: focus on biomolecular corona

“…Much more extensive is the existing literature considering the formation of the endogenous corona. Endogenous corona determined biological identity of the NPs significantly modulates the cellular uptake, biodistribution of NPs (Treuel et al, 2013) and toxicity outcome in invertebrates (Lynch and Dawson, 2008;Nel et al, 2009;Docter et al, 2015; Frontiers in Toxicology frontiersin.org Durán et al, 2015;Zimmermann et al, 2017;Rastgar et al, 2022). For example the implication of NPs biomolecular corona in the immune response is also emerged in invertebrate models such as D. magna, M. galloprovincialis, and P. lividus (Wheeler et al, 2021).…”