Accumulation, translocation and transformation of artificial sweeteners in plants: A critical review.

Artificial sweeteners (ASs) have become an increasingly significant concern as an emerging contaminant. The widespread utilization has given rise to environmental consequences that are progressively harder to disregard. ASs infiltrate both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems through the discharge of wastewater effluents and the application of manure and biosolids. These compounds can be absorbed and accumulated by plants from soil, water and the atmosphere, posing potential risks to ecological systems and human health. However, limited data available on plant absorption, translocation, and metabolism of ASs hinders a comprehensive understanding of their impact on ecosystem. This study aims to comprehensively summarize the global distribution of ASs, along with elucidating patterns of their uptake and accumulation within plants. Furthermore, it seeks to elucidate the pivotal factors governing ASs absorption and translocation, encompassing hydrophilicity, ionic nature, plant physiology, and environmental conditions. Notably, there remains a significant knowledge gap in understanding the biodegradation of ASs within plants, with their specific degradation pathways and mechanisms largely unexplored, thereby necessitating further investigation. Additionally, this review provides valuable insights into the ecotoxicological effects of ASs on plants. Finally, it identifies research gaps and outlines potential avenues for future research, offering a forward-looking perspective on this critical issue.