Micro- and nanoplastics-induced stress in plants: uptake, physiological disruption, and toxicity mechanisms

The persistence and progressive fragmentation of plastic waste into micro- and nanoplastics (M/NPs) represent a significant and escalating threat to agro-ecosystems, adversely impacting a broad spectrum of organisms from soil microbiota to plants, animals, and ultimately human health. Although ecotoxicological studies have documented adverse outcomes, connections between plastic exposure and specific plant physiological endpoints remain underexplored. Here, we synthesize the current evidence on the interaction of plastics particle with plants, especially emphasizing accumulation and distribution of particles in different plant tissues, entry pathways, morphological disruption, and biochemical response. We further devolve into underlying toxicity mechanisms, and synergistic effects with other environmental stressors. Therefore, this review synthesizes current knowledge on the uptake, internal fate, and physiological consequences of M/NPs stress in plants. We also identify key areas for future research, including the development of mechanistic endpoints that directly correlate with crop performance.