Recent Frontiers in Research on Nanoplastics

Dear Colleagues,

Marine litter is cited as one of the most important indicators of the environmental quality of marine ecosystems in Europe. The main component of marine litter is plastics, and in recent years, numerous studies have been carried out to determine the distribution of plastics and microplastics, their abundance, their content in the environment, and their impact on marine ecosystems through both in vitro studies and field investigations. In contrast, research on nanoplastics is scarce and often limited to reviews and in vitro studies. Data on environmental exposure and the development of suitable methods for determination of nanoplastic levels are insufficient. Despite the lack of knowledge on these issues, nanoplastics are of potential concern because their size makes them capable of penetrating almost all biotic barriers and affecting organisms. Research on nanoplastics is important, and publication of recent advances could be useful in filling the significant gaps in knowledge so that stakeholders can make decisions and regulate their levels.

We are pleased to invite you to this Special Issue that focuses on advances in this area of research to improve knowledge on this topic. This Special Issue aims to publish recent results of studies focused on identifying methodological approaches to define environmental levels, to measure nanoplastics in samples without significant interferences by method, and to define effects on organisms in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not be limited to) the following: original research papers, in vivo and in vitro studies, and  in field activities and monitoring.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Monia Renzi
Prof. Dr. Maria Cristina Fossi
Dr. Cristina Panti
Guest Editors

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• nanoplastics
• health of organisms
• ecotoxicity
• ecosystem health
• environmental levels
• interaction with biota