Enhanced bioaccumulation and toxicity of Fenpropathrin by polystyrene nano(micro)plastics in the model insect, silkworm (Bombyx mori)

Abstract Background Nano(micro)plastics (NMPs) and agrochemicals are ubiquitous pollutants. The small size and physicochemical properties of NMPs make them potential carriers for pollutants, affecting their bioavailability and impact on living organisms. However, little is known about their interactions in terrestrial ecosystems. This study investigates the adsorption of Fenpropathrin (FPP) onto two different sizes of polystyrene NMPs and examines their impacts on an insect model, silkworm Bombyx mori. We analyzed the systemic effects of acute exposure to NMPs and FPP, individually and combined, at organismal, tissue, cellular, and gut microbiome levels. Results Our results showed that NMPs can adsorb FPP, with smaller particles having higher adsorption capacity, leading to size-dependent increases in the bioaccumulation and toxicity of FPP. These effects led to higher mortality, reduced body weight, delayed development, and decreased cocoon production in silkworms. Additionally, the pollutants caused physical and oxidative damage to the midgut and altered gene expression related to juvenile hormone (JH) and silk protein synthesis. The gut microbiome analysis revealed significant changes and reduced abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria. Thus, the aggravated toxicity induced by NMPs was size-dependent, with smaller particles (NPs) having a greater impact. Conclusions This study demonstrates the role of NMPs as carriers for contaminants, increasing their bioavailability and toxicity in terrestrial ecosystems. These findings have significant implications for ecosystem health and biodiversity.