Investigating the Correlation Between Early Childhood Dental Caries and Systemic Inflammatory Biomarkers.
- Apr 18
- 2 min read
Updated: May 6
Original Research | 2026 | Volume-3 | Issue-1 | Page 37-44
Dr. Apoorva Rode, Tutor, Department of Public Health Dentistry, V.Y.W.S. Dental College And Hospital Amravati (Corresponding Author)
Abstract
Background: The pervasive accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater ecosystems has emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern. Conventional plastic waste management strategies often fall short in addressing the microscopic fragments embedded within freshwater sediments. Bioremediation, leveraging the metabolic diversity of microorganisms, offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for the mitigation of plastic pollution.
Objective: This study investigates the potential of indigenous bacterial consortia isolated from freshwater sediments in the degradation of microplastics. By utilizing locally adapted microbial populations, the research aims to enhance the efficiency of polymer breakdown under site-specific environmental conditions.
Methodology: Sediment samples were collected from freshwater sites known for high plastic contamination. Indigenous bacterial strains were isolated and screened for their ability to utilize common microplastics (such as Polyethylene, Polypropylene, or PET) as a sole carbon source. A potent bacterial consortium was formulated and its degradative efficiency was assessed over a specific incubation period through gravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphological changes, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to detect chemical structural alterations.
Results: Preliminary findings indicate that the indigenous bacterial consortium exhibits a significant capacity for microplastic degradation compared to individual strains. SEM analysis revealed extensive pitting, erosion, and crack formation on the microplastic surfaces, while FTIR spectra showed the appearance of new functional groups, indicating oxidative degradation. The use of native consortia minimized the lag phase and enhanced the mineralization process of the polymers.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates that indigenous bacterial consortia from freshwater sediments possess robust metabolic machinery for the bioremediation of microplastics.
These findings highlight the potential for developing large-scale, cost-effective bio-augmentation strategies to restore contaminated freshwater habitats and safeguard public health from the entry of microplastics into the food chain.
Keywords: Bioremediation, Microplastics, Indigenous Bacteria, Freshwater Sediments, Microbial Consortia, Environmental Health.