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Impact of Iron on Aging in Enchytraeus crypticus

11-06-2024

"[...] the effects on aging as observed are due to the toxicity of Fe ion released and not on a perturbation of the aging mechanism alone.”

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BUFFALO, NY- November 6, 2024 – A new research paper was published in Aging (listed by MEDLINE/PubMed as "Aging (Albany NY)" and "Aging-US" by Web of Science), Volume 16, Issue 20 on October 24, 2024, entitled “On the lifespan of Enchytraeus crypticus - impact of iron (nanomaterial and salt) on aging.”

This recent study reveals important insights into how iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NMs)—tiny particles with unique magnetic properties widely used in medicine and environmental procedures—may affect soil health over time. Led by Susana I.L. Gomes, Janeck J. Scott-Fordsmand, and Mónica J.B. Amorim from the University of Aveiro in Portugal and Aarhus University in Denmark, the research focuses on how these particles interact with the soil-dwelling worm Enchytraeus crypticus, which plays an essential role in breaking down organic matter and supporting soil structure. 

Iron oxide nanoparticles are increasingly used in applications like magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery, and environmental cleanup. Their effects on soil ecosystems remain largely unexplored. In this study, the team selected Enchytraeus crypticus, a globally present soil-dwelling worm, as an indicator species to assess potential risks to soil health. Over a 202-day period, they examined how iron oxide nanoparticles and traditional iron salt (FeCl3) impact the worm’s lifespan, aging, and reproductive ability.

Findings revealed that prolonged exposure to iron oxide nanoparticles reduced the lifespan, longevity, and reproductive success of Enchytraeus crypticus, particularly in isolated conditions. Worms in lower-density groups experienced greater harm, with shorter lifespans and fewer offspring, while those in larger groups faced less severe impacts. This suggests that population density and environmental factors may influence nanoparticle toxicity. Although iron chloride also showed toxic effects, iron oxide nanoparticles posed higher risks over time, likely due to a slower release of iron ions that extends exposure.

In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of comprehensive studies on the long-term effects of nanoparticles on the environment. As iron oxide nanoparticles become more prevalent, understanding their impact on soil ecosystems is crucial to protecting biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.

Read the full paper: DOI: https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.206134

Corresponding author: Mónica J.B. Amorim - mjamorim@ua.pt

Keywords: long-term, aging, magnetite, nanobiomaterial, survival

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About Aging-US:

The mission of the journal is to understand the mechanisms surrounding aging and age-related diseases, including cancer as the main cause of death in the modern aged population.

The journal aims to promote 1) treatment of age-related diseases by slowing down aging, 2) validation of anti-aging drugs by treating age-related diseases, and 3) prevention of cancer by inhibiting aging. (Cancer and COVID-19 are age-related diseases.)

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