Integrated morphological, proteomic and metabolomic analyses reveal response mechanisms of microalgae under uranium exposure.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The release of uranium (U)-containing wastewater poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems. However, the response mechanisms of microalgae to U stress remain poorly understood.

Methods

This study employed an integrated approach, combining morphological, physiological, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses, to investigate the tolerance and accumulation mechanisms of the microalga Ulothrix sp. under a gradient of U exposure (40 to 400 μmol/L).

Results

Ulothrix sp. exhibited a dose-dependent U accumulation, reaching up to 2,100 mg/kg dry weight, which competitively inhibited the uptake of phosphorus and zinc. Physiologically, medium and high U concentrations reduced chlorophyll *a* content by 49-65% and significantly impaired photosystem I

SUBMITTER: Han M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12581144 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature