Filter-Feedling Bivalves Store and Biodeposit Colloidally Stable Gold Nanoparticles

TitleFilter-Feedling Bivalves Store and Biodeposit Colloidally Stable Gold Nanoparticles
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsHull, MS, Chaurand, P, Rose, J, Auffan, M, Bottero, J-Y, Jones, JC, Schultz, IR, Vikesand, PJ
JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology
Volume45
Pagination6592-6599
Date PublishedAug
ISBN Number0013-936X
Accession NumberWOS:000293196400057
Abstract

Nanoparticles resistant to salt-induced aggregation are continually being developed for biomedical and industrial applications. Because of their colloidal stability these functionalized nanoparticles are anticipated to be persistent aquatic contaminants. Here, we show that Corbicula fluminea, a globally distributed clam that is a known sentinel of aquatic ecosystem contamination, can uptake and biodeposit bovine serum albumin (BSA) stabilized gold nanoparticles. Nanopartide clearance rates from suspension were dictated by diameter and concentration, with the largest particles cleared most quickly on a mass basis. Particle capture facilitates size-selective 'biopurification' of particle suspensions with nanoscale resolution. Nanoparticles were retained either within the clam digestive tract or excreted in feces. Our results suggest that biotransformation and biodeposition will play a significant role in the fate and transport of persistent nanoparticles in aquatic systems.

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