The effects of nickel tungstate nanoparticles (NiWO₄ NPs) on freshwater microalga Raphidocelis subcapitata (Chlorophyceae)

Author(s):Show less -

de Abreu, Cinthia Bruno ; Gebara, Renan Castelhano ; Rocha, Giseli Swerts ; Mansano, Adrislaine da Silva ; Assis, Marcelo ; Pereira, Thalles Maranesi ; Virtuoso, Luciano Sindra ; Moreira, Ailton Jose ; Santos, Mykaelli Andrade ; Melao, Maria da Graca Gama ; Longo, Elson

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL MICROBIOLOGY; v. N/A, p. 13-pg., 2025-01-09.

Abstract

Among the vast array of functional nanoparticles (NPs) under development, nickel tungstate (NiWO4) has gained prominence due to its potential applications as a catalyst, sensor, and in the development of supercapacitors. Consequently, new studies on the environmental impact of this material must be conducted to establish a regulatory framework for its management. This work aims to assess the effects of NiWO4 (NPs) on multiple endpoints (e.g., growth, photosynthetic activity, and morphological and biochemical levels) of the freshwater microalga Raphidocelis subcapitata (Chlorophyceae). Quantification data revealed that the fraction of dissolved Ni and free Ni2+ increased proportionally with NiWO4 NP concentrations, although these levels remained relatively low. Biological results indicated that NiWO4 NPs did not inhibit the growth of algal cells, except at 7.9 mg L-1, resulting in a 9% decrease. Morphological changes were observed in cell size and complexity, accompanied by physiological alterations, such as a reduction in chlorophyll a fluorescence (FL3-H) and signs of impaired photosynthetic activity, indicated by the effective quantum yield, quenchings, and chlorophyll a (Chl a) content. Furthermore, the rapid light curves showed that the NPs in high concentrations affected microalga ability to tolerate high light intensities, as corroborated by the significant decrease in the relative electron transport rate (rETRmax) and saturation irradiance (Ek). Based on the present study results, we emphasize the importance of applying integrative approaches in ecotoxicological studies, since each endpoint evaluated showed different sensitivity. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/07988-5 - Bioprospecting, characterization and optimization of Brazilian microalgal strains for CO2 biofixation and bioproducts of commercial importance
• Grantee: Ana Teresa Lombardi
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 21/13607-7 - Environmental impacts of CoWO4 and NiWO4 nanoparticles on trophic levels of an aquatic food chain
• Grantee: Cínthia Bruno de Abreu
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 21/13583-0 - Ecotoxicological Effects of Nanoparticles of ZnWO4 and CuWO4 On a Freshwater Planktonic Foodchain: Evaluating Possible Environmental Impacts of Emerging Contaminants
• Grantee: Renan Castelhano Gebara
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 22/06219-3 - Developing and disseminating new technologies for environmental remediation of emerging contaminants
• Grantee: Ailton Jose Moreira
• Support Opportunities: Generation Project Research Grant
• FAPESP's process: 13/07296-2 - CDMF - Center for the Development of Functional Materials
• Grantee: Elson Longo da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC