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The Impact of Micro/Nanoplastics on Human Hematopoietic Function: Exposure, Deposition, Toxicity, and Mitigation Strategies
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Researchers reviewed how micro- and nanoplastics enter the body via diet and inhalation and accumulate in blood cells and hematopoietic organs, synthesizing animal and in vitro evidence that these particles disrupt red and white blood cell production through oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling while also exploring biodegradation and dietary mitigation strategies.
The continuous accumulation of micro- and nanoplastics in the human living environment and their deposition in various organs of the body have become a global public health concern with the widespread use of plastic products. This review summarizes the main categories of micro- and nanoplastics entering the body through dietary intake and air inhalation, based on human exposure pathways. By integrating existing literature data, this review estimates the daily intake and excretion of micro- and nanoplastics in humans, summarizes evidence regarding their potential deposition patterns in blood cells and hematopoietic-related organs, mainly inferred from animal and in vitro studies, and discusses the possible impacts of such deposition on hematopoietic function. Furthermore, the toxic effects and potential hazards of micro- and nanoplastics on the human hematopoietic system at both cellular and animal levels, along with the underlying molecular mechanisms, are comprehensively reviewed. From the dual perspectives of environmental governance and bodily protection, exploratory research ideas are proposed, including biodegradation strategies and the application of medicinal and edible homologous substances. This review aims to provide insights for reducing the risk of hematopoietic system diseases and preventing harm caused by micro- and nanoplastics to the human body in the future.
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Researchers gave male rats different doses of polyethylene microplastics orally for 35 days and found significant damage to blood cells and the blood-forming system. Higher doses caused oxidative stress, DNA damage, and changes in gene expression patterns related to blood cell production. The study suggests that chronic microplastic ingestion could harm the blood system through both genetic and epigenetic pathways.
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Researchers exposed human whole blood to five types of nanoplastics and found that immune cells, especially monocytes, readily absorbed the particles, triggering oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Different plastic types caused different effects: some triggered blood clotting, others caused red blood cell damage, and PLA (a "biodegradable" plastic) was among the most reactive. This study provides direct evidence that nanoplastics reaching the human bloodstream can disrupt immune cells, blood clotting, and inflammation.
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Researchers reviewed how environmental toxicants — including microplastics, heavy metals, pesticides, and PFAS — damage the blood-forming system by causing oxidative stress, DNA damage, and immune disruption. The review emphasizes that the blood system is especially vulnerable because it continuously produces new cells that are directly exposed to circulating toxins.
The impact of micro- and nanoplastics on immune system development and functions: Current knowledge and future directions
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This review summarizes existing research on how micro- and nanoplastics affect the immune system, finding that exposure can disrupt blood cell development, alter immune cell behavior, and trigger inflammatory responses in lab and animal studies. While some studies show significant effects on organs like the spleen and intestines, others found minimal impact at environmentally realistic exposure levels, highlighting the need for more standardized research.
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