Impact of biosolids and wastewater effluent application to agricultural land on corticosterone content in lettuce plants

We studied corticosterone occurrence in lettuce plants grown on three biosolids amended soils under irrigation with either tap water or secondary wastewater effluent. Corticosterone was examined as it has possible implications for human health. It is a major glucocorticoid, and as such has an effect on regulation of metabolism, immune functions and stress response. The plants were grown in 220-L lysimeters packed with 3 soils which represent a wide range of physicochemical properties. Lettuce was grown in cycles (two in summer and two in winter) during 3years, and in every spring season the sludges were re-applied. Corticosterone was quantified using ELISA and LCMS, and was found in the biosolids, tap water, wastewater effluent and lettuce plants. The respective ranges of concentrations were: 11–92ngg−1, 0.5–1.6ngL−1, 4.2–4.7ngL−1; and 1–900ngg−1 dry weight. A positive relationship was found between corticosterone concentrations in winter-grown lettuces and the plants fresh weight. The corticosterone content of the plants did not correspond with either the type of irrigation water or the biosolids type and rate of application or the soil properties. [Display omitted] •There is a growing concern that steroid hormones may pose a risk to the environment.•EDCs uptake such as corticosterone is essential to assessing potential risks to human.•Corticosterone was analyzed in lettuce plants under different conditions.•Corticosterone was found in the lettuce plants, fresh water, wastewater and biosolids.