The Plastic Within: Microplastics Invading Human Organs and Bodily Fluids Systems

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), small plastic particles resulting from the degradation of larger plastic items and from primary sources such as textiles, engineered plastic pellets, etc., have become a ubiquitous environmental pollutant. As their prevalence in the natural environment grows, concerns about their potential impacts on human health have escalated. This review discusses current research findings on the presence of MPs in organs such as the liver, blood, heart, placenta, breast milk, sputum, semen, testis, and urine, while also exploring plausible mechanisms of translocation. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential toxicological effects of MPs on various physiological processes within these organs and their broader implications for human health. This review also examines the pathways through which MPs can enter and accumulate in human organs and bodily fluids, shedding light on the intricate routes of exposure and potential health implications. It is worth noting that the invasive medical procedures may permit direct access of MPs to the bloodstream and tissues, serving as a potential contamination source. However, it is evident that a comprehensive understanding of MPs’ invasion into human organs is vital for effective mitigation strategies and the preservation of both human health and the environment.

The Hidden Health Crisis: Microplastics and Their Medical Consequences

“…This complexity necessitates a collaborative approach between different sectors to address environmental and health impacts. There's a pressing need for integrated research efforts to understand the pervasive effects of microplastics, not only on marine life but also on terrestrial ecosystems, particularly soil function 15,16 . All this has prompted us to gather the latest scientific information on microplastics and their impact on health, as well as a closer look at the mechanisms through which microplastics enter the human body.…”

Nanoplastics as emerging cardiovascular hazards: a narrative review of current evidence

“…While many of the published studies have explored the forms of MPs, their routes of entry into human systems, and their toxicity, significant gaps persist in understanding the mechanisms underlying these NPs' toxicity [27,28]. NPs can gain entry into the human body through several means, including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact [29]. Evidence of NPs in human stool validates their entry through diet, drinking water, and food packaging [30].…”

“…Additionally, NPs exposure has been associated with inflammation within the vascular endothelium [41]. Inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines, are upregulated in response to nanoplastic exposure, triggering an inflammatory cascade that can disrupt normal vascular homeostasis [29]. Persistent inflammation within the blood vessels can contribute to endothelial dysfunction, impaired vasodilation, and the development of atherosclerosis [30].…”