Fate of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles in Natural Waters and Immunotoxicity in Exposed Rainbow Trout

Once released in the environment, engineered nanoparticles (NPs) can undergo important transformation resulting in changed properties under natural conditions. This study investigated the fate, the bioavailability and the immunotoxicity of cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles in fish exposed to CeO2 in representative surface waters differing in pH, organic matter content and conductivity (green and brown waters). Following an incubation period of NP CeO2 in different surface waters, particle size distribution and shape were determined by ultrafiltration and ICP-mass spectrometry, electronic microscopy and dynamic light scattering (DSL). Bioaccumulation and effect biomarkers focusing on the immune system responses (viability of immune cells and phagocytic activity) were also determined. Particle size distributions significantly changed under all types of surface waters where aggregation of NPs was commonly observed. Indeed, >90% of NPs CeO2 were found as aggregates (>450 nm) and large colloids (>100 nm). Less than 1% cerium (Ce) was found in the truly dissolved fraction (