Co-exposure of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) decreased the submicron plastic stress in soil-plant system.

ABSTRACT: The widespread use of agricultural plastic films has made micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and phthalate esters (PAEs) contaminants of emerging concern in agroecosystems. However, the interactive mechanisms underlying their combined pollution in soil-plant systems remain elusive. To fill this gap, this study investigated the interaction between submicron plastics (SMPs, 0.01% and 0.1% w/w) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in soil-lettuce systems. Contrary to the anticipated synergistic toxicity, DEHP significantly reduced SMP uptake into and by cracked surface cells of lettuce roots (with root concentration factors decreasing by 19%-64%), i.e., DEHP alleviated SMP-induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by reduced levels of reactive oxygen species (-26.8% and -66.7%) and antioxidant enzy

SUBMITTER: Wang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12516555 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature