Application of transcriptome profiling to inquire into the mechanism of nanoplastics toxicity during Ciona robusta embryogenesis.

The growing concern on nanoplastics (<1 μm) impact on marine life has stimulated a significant amount of studies aiming to address ecotoxicity and disclose their mechanisms of action. Here, we applied an integrative approach to develop an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) upon acute exposure to amino-modified polystyrene nanoparticles (PS–NH 2 NPs, 50 nm), as proxy for nanoplastics, during the embryogenesis of the chordate Ciona robusta. Genes related to glutathione metabolism, immune defense, nervous system, transport by aquaporins and energy metabolism were affected by either concentration tested of 10 or 15 μg mL⁻¹ of PS-NH 2. Transcriptomic data and in vivo experiments were assembled into two putative AOPs, identifying as key events the adhesion of PS-NH 2 as (molecular) initiating event, followed by oxidative stress, changes in transcription of specific genes, morphological defects, increase in reactive oxygen species level, impaired swimming behavior. As final adverse outcomes, altered larval development, reduced metamorphosis and inhibition of hatching were identified. Our study attempts to define AOPs for PS-NH 2 without excluding that chemicals leaching from them might also have a potential role in the observed outcome. Overall data provide new insights into the mechanism of action of PS-NH 2 NPs during chordate embryogenesis and offer further keys for a better knowledge of nanoplastics impact on early stages of marine life. [Display omitted] • Several DEGs were identified in 10–15 μg mL⁻¹ PS-NH 2 treated Ciona embryos. • PS-NH 2 affect glutathione and energy metabolism, immune and nervous system. • PS-NH 2 adhesion around the chorion is considered the (molecular) initiating event. • Altered larval development, reduced metamorphosis, hatching inhibition as final AOs. • Styrene monomers and DTBP were detected in exposure media as PS-NH 2 byproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]