Multiomics analysis reveals the molecular basis for increased body weight in silkworms (Bombyx mori) exposed to environmental concentrations of polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics.

Summary

This multiomics investigation examined how environmental exposure to polystyrene microplastics and nanoplastics affects growth and metabolic health in Bombyx mori silkworms. Using integrated transcriptomic and proteomic approaches, the authors identified molecular pathways and gene expression changes that mechanistically explain the observed increase in body weight following plastic exposure. The findings suggest that plastic particle ingestion alters fundamental metabolic processes, with potential implications for understanding how such contaminants affect animal physiology.

Regional applicability

Whilst this study uses silkworms as a model organism, the mechanistic insights may inform understanding of plastic ingestion impacts on insect pollinators and agricultural invertebrates present in UK farming systems. However, direct applicability to commercial UK agriculture or food production systems is limited without evidence of effects in field-relevant conditions.

Key measures

Body weight gain; gene expression profiles; metabolic pathway alterations; protein abundance changes; transcriptomic and proteomic data from silkworms exposed to polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics

Outcomes reported

The study used multiomics analysis to identify molecular mechanisms underlying increased body weight in silkworms (Bombyx mori) exposed to environmental concentrations of polystyrene plastics. The research measured changes in gene expression, metabolic pathways, and protein profiles associated with plastic exposure.

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