Current Advances in Aquatic and Marine Toxicology

Abstract

Aquatic and marine toxicology is a rapidly evolving field that addresses the complex and multifaceted challenges posed by environmental pollutants and climate change. This comprehensive review highlights key areas of focus and future directions, including advanced technological applications, integrative risk assessment methodologies, emerging contaminants, and the implications of climate change. Automated liquid handling systems (ALHS) and high-content screening (HCS) are revolutionizing toxicological research by enhancing precision, throughput, and data quality. Advanced bioinformatics tools facilitate the management and analysis of large datasets, supporting the identification of toxicological patterns and comprehensive risk assessments. Integrative frameworks, such as Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) and Weight-of-Evidence (WoE) approaches, enhance the robustness of regulatory decisions by linking molecular events to adverse outcomes and combining diverse data sources. Emerging contaminants, including microplastics, nanomaterials, and pharmaceuticals, present new regulatory challenges, necessitating detailed studies on their environmental fate, bioavailability, and toxicological effects. The interplay between climate change and pollution introduces additional complexity, with research focusing on multi-stressor effects and the resilience of aquatic organisms and ecosystems. Public engagement through citizen science and educational programs enhances environmental monitoring and promotes stewardship. Future research directions emphasize integrative approaches, advanced modelling techniques, and innovative monitoring technologies to improve our understanding and management of aquatic and marine toxicology. These efforts are critical for safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of water resources in an era of unprecedented environmental change.