Work

Identifying resistance molecules in TiO2 nanoparticle-tolerant strains to facilitate the development of strategies for combating TiO2 nanoparticle pollution

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The severity of environmental pollution caused by TiO 2 nanoparticles (nTiO 2 ) is increasing, highlighting the urgent need for the development of strategies to combat nTiO 2 pollution. Insights into resistance molecules from nTiO 2 -tolerant strains may facilitate such development. In this study, we utilized multi-omics, genetic manipulation, physiological and biochemical experiments to identify relevant resistance molecules in two strains ( Physarum polycephalum Z259 and T83) tolerated to mixed-phase nTiO 2 (MPnTiO 2 ). We discovered that a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, comprising one long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), four microRNAs, and nine mRNAs, influenced metabolic rearrangement and was associated with significant resistance in these strains. Additionally, we found that the lncRNA in the ceRNAs network and certain small-weight metabolites associated with the ceRNA exhibited notable mitigation effects not only against MPnTiO 2 but also against other types of nTiO 2 with broad species applicability (they significantly improved the resistance of several non-nTiO 2 -tolerant cells/organisms in the laboratory and reduced cell damage of non-nTiO 2 -tolerant cells/organisms in highly suspected nTiO 2 -polluted areas of the real world). In summary, this study deepens our understanding of nTiO 2 -tolerant strains, provides valuable insights into resistance molecules in these strains, and facilitates the development of strategies to combat nTiO 2 pollution. • Revealing ceRNA network regulating the specific metabolic rearrangement associated with nTiO 2 resistance. • Discoverying resistance molecules with broader species applicability. • Facilitating the development of new strategies for combating nTiO 2 pollution.

Source: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117042

Authors: Zhi Zhang, Zhong Tao Ding, Cheng Xin Wu, Qing Hai Zhang, Xiu Yi Liang, Zhi Cheng Liang

Institutions: Guiyang Medical University, Jiangxi Agricultural University, St. John's University, South China University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Nanoparticles: synthesis and applications

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,990