Multi-level biological effects of diverse alkyl chains phthalate esters on cotton seedlings (Gossypium hirsutum L.): Insights into individual, physiological-biochemical and molecular perspectives

symbolscript 5.89 times and 1837.49 symbolscript 826.83 times higher than those of long-chain DBP and DOP, respectively. These results support the ecological risk assessment of PAEs in cotton and provide new insights into determining the toxicity levels of different PAEs.