Mechanisms of microplastics sorption of antibiotics and impacts on aquatic ecosystems for sustainable development goals

作者：Obed Nwasen Likpalimor, Shiwen Zhang, Favour Iwueseter Adagba, Sawyerr Fatoye, King Jones Adega, Joab Njue · 发表于：Discover Environment · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1007/s44274-025-00431-3 · 被引用次数：6 · 研究领域：Microplastics and Plastic Pollution、biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties、Pharmaceutical and Antibiotic Environmental Impacts

Microplastics, small plastic particles (< 5 mm) derived from plastic debris, serve as vectors for antibiotics in aquatic ecosystems. This review synthesizes their sorption mechanisms, including hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic forces, and π-π bonding, influenced by environmental factors such as pH, salinity, and dissolved organic matter. Ecocorona formation on microplastic surfaces modifies antibiotic binding, affecting their environmental fate and bioavailability. Weathering processes transform microplastics into nanoplastics, potentially increasing pollutant mobility, while photodegradation of antibiotics produces bioactive transformation products. Humic substances further alter sorption dynamics, with implications for ecological risks. Microplastics may impair aquatic plants by disrupting nutrient uptake and photosynthesis, potentially affecting ecosystem stability. However, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the long-term impacts of antibiotic-laden microplastics on aquatic flora, necessitating further research. To address these challenges, potential strategies include: (1) promoting biodegradable polymers to replace non-degradable ones like polystyrene; (2) enhancing wastewater treatment to reduce microplastic and antibiotic pollution; (3) fostering global cooperation to limit microplastic production; (4) monitoring antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in plastisphere biofilms; and (5) raising public awareness about contamination risks in aquatic food chain...