MED-BIO. Assessing the impact of organic contaminants of emerging concern on key marine organisms. MICIU PID2024-160452OB-C22

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Assessing the impact of organic contaminants of emerging concern on key marine organisms, examines the effects of organic contaminants of emerging concern (CECs)—including pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and other pollutants—on marine organisms and ecosystems, with a particular focus on their interactions under climate change (CC). Originating from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources, CECs disrupt marine life and ecosystems, threaten biodiversity, and pose risks to food safety and human health through the consumption of fish and shellfish. These challenges posed by CECs may be intensified by CC-driven stressors, such as rising water temperatures, acidification, and increased organic matter runoff, particularly in vulnerable regions like the heavily populated Mediterranean. MED-BIO focuses on key organisms across marine trophic levels, from microorganisms and zooplankton to bivalves and fish. These sentinels are studied to evaluate bioaccumulation, toxicity, and ecosystem impacts. Special emphasis is placed on biochemical biomarkers as early warning indicators of physiological and environmental disruptions. This predictive value, using generalist and cost-effective methodologies, will be complemented by advanced analytical approaches, including metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and single-cell metabolomics. Additionally, particular attention is given to microbial communities, their gene expression linked to pollution, and the dynamics of harmful algal blooms and biotoxins, as these are critical elements at the base of the marine trophic chain.

To achieve its goals, MED-BIO will complement field studies with controlled microcosm experiments to investigate how CC stressors may amplify the effects of selected CEC mixtures on marine biota. Human health impacts will be addressed by studying the bioaccumulation of CECs in commercially relevant marine species, such as shrimp and fish, and analyzing how cooking and digestion affect human exposure. The MED-BIO proposal aligns seamlessly with the One Health framework. This multidisciplinary initiative integrates chemistry, microbiology, ecotoxicology, and environmental modeling to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of CECs and CC on marine ecosystems. The consequences affect both wildlife and humans, as they are closely interconnected in heavily populated regions with significant contributions from coastal industries.

MED-BIO will generate valuable data to guide policies aimed at mitigating contamination, preserving marine biodiversity, and improving the safety and sustainability of seafood. This research will ultimately contribute to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the United Nations.

Montserrat Solé | Ecology of Marine Microbes

MED-BIO. Assessing the impact of organic contaminants of emerging concern on key marine organisms. MICIU PID2024-160452OB-C22