Impact of nanoplastics on renal tissue inflammatory processes in a zebrafish tumor model

• Grant number: 24/06068-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2030
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Pablo Shimaoka Chagas
• Grantee: Pablo Shimaoka Chagas
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Babak Baban ; Leandro Machado Colli ; Luciano de Figueiredo Borges ; Maria Oliveira de Souza ; Niels Olsen Saraiva Câmara ; Rosana Camarini ; Sérgio Luiz Morelhão ; Steven Crowley

Abstract

Nanoplastic (NP) pollution represents a global environmental and public health challenge. Of particular concern, these nanoparticles are capable of interacting with biological membranes and interfering with cellular homeostasis. However, the effects of NPs on tissue inflammatory processes under conditions associated with the renal tumor microenvironment have not yet been investigated. In this project, we propose to investigate the potential mechanisms by which NPs may modulate inflammatory responses and cellular interactions in the context of a renal tumor model in zebrafish. Our central hypothesis is that NPs may influence the crosstalk between inflammation, immune responses, and tissue remodeling, indirectly contributing to processes related to tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. To address this, we will employ an integrated approach combining in vitro (cell culture), in vivo (zebrafish model), in silico (spatial transcriptomics analyses), and ex vivo (human samples) studies. Furthermore, since NPs may enhance local inflammation, which can consequently lead to resistance to anticancer drugs, we also intend to evaluate the potential integration of cannabidiol (CBD) with conventional chemotherapeutic agents used in renal cancer treatment, aiming to propose novel and non-orthodox therapeutic modalities. Finally, we also aim to conduct scientific outreach activities for the community through the dissemination of the knowledge and data generated by this project. (AU)