Impact of PVC microplastics in photodynamic inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA

Author(s)

Lima, Alessandra Ramos ; Silva, Kamila Jessie Sammarro ; Aguiar, Antonio Sergio Nakao ; de Souza, Mariana ; Lima, Thalita Hellen Nunes ; Blanco, Kate Cristina ; Bagnato, Vanderlei Salvador ; Dias, Lucas Danilo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; v. 89, n. 8, p. 13-pg., 2024-03-29.

Abstract

Photodynamic processes have found widespread application in therapies. These processes involve photosensitizers (PSs) that, when excited by specific light wavelengths and in the presence of molecular oxygen, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), that target cells leading to inactivation. Photodynamic action has gained notable attention in environmental applications, particularly against pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) that pose a significant challenge to public health. However, environmental matrices frequently encompass additional contaminants and interferents, including microplastics (MPs), which are pollutants of current concern. Their presence in water and effluents has been extensively documented, highlighting their impact on conventional treatment methods, but this information remains scarce in the context of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) setups. Here, we described the effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microparticles in PDI targeting Staphylococcus aureus and its methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), using curcumin as a PS under blue light. The presence of PVC microparticles does not hinder ROS formation; however, depending on its concentration, it can impact bacterial inactivation. Our results underscore that PDI remains a potent method for reducing bacterial concentrations in water and wastewater containing ARB, even in highly contaminated scenarios with MPs. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/07276-1 - CEPOF - Optics and Photonic Research Center
• Grantee: Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC
• FAPESP's process: 14/50857-8 - National Institute in Basic Optics and Applied to Life Sciences
• Grantee: Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/11853-6 - Study of photonic supplementation and mechanisms of incorporation of pharmaceutical actives in hydroponic cultivation
• Grantee: Alessandra Ramos Lima
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral