Microplastics exacerbate the toxicity of perfluorooctanoic acid to human cells via cell membrane damage and internalization increases

Molecular mechanisms of microplastics toxicity

Co-exposure of polyethylene terephthalate micro- and nanoplastics with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances triggers immune dysregulation, apoptotic activation, and neurotoxicity

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Researchers exposed zebrafish larvae to combined polyethylene terephthalate microplastics and PFOA and found that co-exposure triggered oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, neurological impairment, and metabolic disruption, with gene expression changes indicating additive toxicity beyond either contaminant alone.

Cellular and Animal Toxicities of Micro- and Nanoplastics

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Researchers reviewed evidence from cell and animal studies on the toxic effects of micro- and nanoplastics, finding that these particles can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and organ damage in laboratory models, raising concern about what chronic low-level human exposure might mean for long-term health.

Microplastics and nanoplastics in human health: a comprehensive review of exposure pathways, cellular mechanisms, and toxicological implications

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Researchers reviewed human exposure pathways to microplastics and nanoplastics through seafood, salt, drinking water, inhalation, and skin contact, examining how these particles cross biological barriers to reach organs and trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption with poorly understood long-term consequences.

Microplastics as Vectors of PFAS: Adsorption Mechanisms, Environmental Fate, and Toxicological Implications

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This review examined how microplastics act as vectors for PFAS—so-called forever chemicals—by adsorbing and transporting these compounds through aquatic and terrestrial environments to increase combined toxic burden. The co-exposure risk is particularly concerning for human health because both microplastics and PFAS are persistent, and their interaction may amplify systemic toxicity beyond what either pollutant causes alone.