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Identification and analysis of microplastics in peritumoral and tumor tissues of colorectal cancer
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Researchers examined tumor and surrounding tissue from colorectal cancer patients and found a diverse range of microplastics, including PVC and polyethylene, with tumor tissues containing a greater variety and higher distribution of microplastics than adjacent healthy tissue. A protein called clathrin that helps cells absorb materials was highly active in the cancer tissue, suggesting it may facilitate microplastic uptake and pointing to a potential link between microplastic exposure and colorectal cancer development.
The widespread occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment has raised significant concerns regarding their potential health impacts, particularly in relation to carcinogenesis. This study aimed to identify and analyze microplastics present in peritumoral and tumor tissues of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC). Utilizing advanced scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging systems, we systematically examined tissue samples to detect and characterize the microplastics. Our findings revealed a diverse array of microplastic types, notably polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE), within both peritumoral and tumor regions. Compared to adjacent non-cancerous tissues, tumor tissues exhibited a greater variety and distribution of microplastics. Furthermore, Clathrin-a key protein involved in endocytosis-was found to be highly expressed in colorectal cancer specimens, facilitating the substantial uptake of microplastics. These results suggest a potential association between exposure to microplastics and the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. This study highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and regulatory measures aimed at mitigating microplastic pollution along with its associated health risks.
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The clinical relevance of microplastic exposure on colorectal cancer: A systematic review
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This systematic review of four studies found that microplastic accumulation in colorectal cancer tissue (25.9-32.2 particles/g) was significantly higher than in healthy controls, with polyamide, polycarbonate, and polypropylene as the most common polymers detected. While a causal relationship has not been established, the evidence points to microplastics as a potential environmental factor in colorectal cancer development.
Microplastics and colorectal cancer: presence in human colorectal tissues and associations with tumor biology
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This review of 13 studies found that microplastics, tiny plastic particles from everyday sources like packaging and synthetic fabrics, show up in higher amounts in colorectal cancer tumors than in surrounding healthy tissue. Higher microplastic levels were linked to more aggressive tumors, more inflammation, and disrupted gut barrier function, suggesting these particles may help create conditions that favor cancer growth. While this doesn't prove microplastics cause colorectal cancer, it's a strong signal that reducing plastic exposure could matter for gut health, and larger studies are needed to confirm the connection.
Higher number of microplastics in tumoral colon tissues from patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma
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Researchers found higher concentrations of microplastics in cancerous colon tissue compared to healthy tissue from the same patients, suggesting a possible link between microplastic accumulation and colorectal cancer, though this study cannot yet establish whether microplastics cause the disease.
A multi-omics signature of microplastic exposure and its clinical, metabolic, and microbial correlates in colorectal cancer
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Scientists found tiny plastic particles (from common plastics like PVC and polyethylene) built up more in colon tumors and the tissue around them than in blood samples from cancer patients. These plastic particles were linked to changes in blood chemistry and gut bacteria, suggesting microplastics might interact with the body's metabolism in ways connected to colorectal cancer. This is early evidence, not proof of cause and effect, but it highlights why reducing plastic exposure and further research into this link matter for gut health.
Microplastics and Colorectal Cancer: Presence in Human Colorectal Tissues and Associations with Tumor Biology- A Systematic Review
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This review of 13 studies found that tiny plastic particles called microplastics are present in human colon tissues, with higher amounts found in cancerous tumors compared to healthy tissue. The research suggests these plastic particles may contribute to colon cancer development by causing inflammation and creating conditions that help tumors grow. While more research is needed to prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, this highlights growing concerns about how plastic pollution in our environment and food supply might affect human health.
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