Trophic transfer of polylactic acid microplastics induces multisystemic dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor and challenges the perceived safety of biodegradable plastics

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Trophic transfer of polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics induces multisystem dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor, demonstrating that biodegradable plastics pose significant ecological risks. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.CONTRADICTORY. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.CHALLENGES_CONSENSUS.

Bruna de Oliveira Mendes; Wesley Rodrigues Soares; Rafaela Ribeiro de Brito; Aline Sueli de Lima Rodrigues; Ariane Guimarães; Boscolli Barbosa Pereira; Thiarlen Marinho da Luz; Guilherme Malafaia

doi:10.1039/d6va00175k

January 1, 2026Environmental Science AdvancesOpen Access

Trophic transfer of polylactic acid microplastics induces multisystemic dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor and challenges the perceived safety of biodegradable plastics

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Key Points

This research investigates the impact of polylactic acid microplastics on multisystem functions in Tenebrio molitor.
PLA microplastics transferred through a food chain
Assessment of behavioral and metabolic changes
Analysis of redox balance and neurochemistry
Behavioral changes were observed, indicating impaired interactions.
Metabolic disruption was noted, affecting energy utilization.
Neurochemical alterations highlighted significant ecological risks.

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Implication

Shows multisystem dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor, indicating ecological risks of biodegradable plastics.

Abstract

PLA microplastics transferred through a terrestrial food chain induced multisystem dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor, disrupting behavior, metabolism, redox balance and neurochemistry, revealing hidden ecological risks of biodegradable plastics.

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Cite This Study

Mendes et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a17dc453fad632b0f9d8e85 https://doi.org/10.1039/d6va00175k

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Trophic transfer of polylactic acid microplastics induces multisystemic dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor and challenges the perceived safety of biodegradable plastics

Key Points

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Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

Trophic transfer of polylactic acid microplastics induces multisystemic dysfunction in Tenebrio molitor and challenges the perceived safety of biodegradable plastics

Key Points

Ask about this paper

Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

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