Synergistic toxicity of DBDPE and Cd in a microcosm agrosystem: Insights into physiological, biochemical, nutrient elements and amino acid metabolic responses

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-5-2025

Abstract

Agricultural soil contamination by flame retardants and heavy metals has become an environmental concern, with decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) and cadmium (Cd) being frequently detected in e-waste dismantling areas. While previous studies mostly focused on single-organism system or individual toxicity, the combined effects of DBDPE and Cd on agricultural ecosystems remain largely unknown. This study aimed to reveal the joint toxicity mechanisms of DBDPE and Cd by examining physiological responses, amino acid metabolism, nutrient element distribution, and DBDPE degradation pathways in this integrated system. Results demonstrated that co-exposure to DBDPE and Cd intensified toxicity compared to single exposure. In lettuce, DBDPE amplified the inhibitory effects of Cd on plant growth (height and fresh weight of the aerial part decreased by 3.8 % and 5.8 %). Co-exposure inhibited chlorophyll synthesis (particularly carotenoid production, decreased by 53.33 %), disrupted amino acid metabolism, and impaired nutrient elements uptake, ultimately leading to reduced plant growth. In earthworms, co-exposure altered amino acid profiles, disrupted nutrient elements absorption and transport, thereby reducing their antioxidant defense capacity. Both organisms showed limited ability to detoxify DBDPE through similar debromination pathways. This study reveals the synergistic toxicological impacts of DBDPE and Cd in agricultural systems, highlighting the elevated ecological risks of their co-occurrence and emphasizing the need for comprehensive pollution control strategies in contaminated agricultural soils.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Journal of Hazardous Materials

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