Oral administration of nano- and microplastics disrupts redox homeostasis and spindle organization in mouse oocytes: enhancement by low-dose cadmium and limited protection by melatonin

Melatonin mitigates polystyrene nanoplastics-induced impairment of oocyte maturation in mice

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Mice were exposed to polystyrene nanoplastics for 35 days, and their egg cells were then matured in culture. Exposure impaired maturation and fertilization. Adding melatonin to the culture medium restored mitochondrial function, lowered oxidative stress and eased the defects.

Invisible threats of microplastics induced toxicity: Oxidative and inflammatory pathways in the CNS and retina

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Tiny plastic particles that we ingest and breathe in every day may be able to sneak past the brain's and eye's natural protective barriers, where they can trigger inflammation and stress cells out, potentially playing a role in conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and macular degeneration. This review pulls together existing animal and lab research on the topic, but it's important to note that solid proof in humans is still lacking, partly because these particles are so hard to detect and study. Still, given how common microplastic exposure has become, the findings are a strong signal that we need more research to understand what this means for long-term brain and eye health.

Impact and mechanisms of microplastics and nanoplastics on the reproductive system

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Researchers reviewed evidence that microplastics and nanoplastics disrupt both male and female reproductive systems across multiple species, causing oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, reduced sperm quality, impaired ovarian function, and potentially transgenerational reproductive damage — with human data still limited but concerns growing.

Implication of nano and microplastics in reproduction: understanding oocyte vulnerability

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This review examined how nano- and microplastics (NMPs) compromise oocyte quality and female reproductive function, finding that NMPs trigger oxidative stress, disrupt meiotic spindle assembly, impair mitochondrial function, and cause DNA damage in eggs. The findings identified the oocyte as particularly vulnerable to NMP exposure, with implications for fertility and reproductive health.

Nanoplastics exacerbate cadmium toxicity in Mytilus coruscus through bioenergetic exhaustion and tissue disintegration