Implementation of novel tools to assess metal nanoparticle uptake and trophic transfer

While uptake and effects of engineered metal nanoparticles (metal ENPs) in short-term water-only laboratory tests have been widely examined in controlled freshwater systems, only a few studies have focused on dietary/sediment exposure or long-term effects. Even less emphasis have been directed to understanding mechanisms controlling uptake and internal fate and only a very few studies exist on trophic transfer of metal ENPs. Advancement has been restrained due to limitations regarding available characterization methods (both in biological and environmental samples). This project will combine and use a toolbox of novel and advanced techniques in microscopy, and ENP labelling (stable isotopes and fluorescence) in combination with Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and single-particle ICP-MS (SP-ICP-MS) to address these knowledge gaps. Our preliminary studies are very promising highlighting that such a toolbox of techniques may be paramount for developing nano research and will be applicable in many other research areas as well. Through two postdoctoral projects, we intend to take advantage of these new tools to examine trophic transfer of metal ENPs and address how exposure time affects uptake, internal fate and toxicity of metal ENP in prey (sediment-dwelling worm) and predator (fish). The support from Villum Fonden will ensure the implementation of key techniques necessary to progress nano research at RU-ENSPAC by inaugurating knowledge transfer between institutions.