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Brain tissue near tumours is loaded with plastic

Nature 2026

Summary

Scientists found more tiny plastic particles (called micro- and nanoplastics) in brain tissue near tumors compared to healthy brain tissue. This might mean the brain's natural protective shield, the "blood-brain barrier," which normally keeps harmful substances out, breaks down near tumors, letting more plastic particles slip through. This is early research, but it raises questions about whether plastics in our environment could affect brain health, especially in people with tumors.

Body Systems

Relatively high levels of micro- and nanoplastics around brain tumours might indicate breakdown of the blood–brain barrier. Relatively high levels of micro- and nanoplastics around brain tumours might indicate breakdown of the blood–brain barrier.

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