We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Micro- and nanoplastics in neurological dysfunction
Summary
This review examines growing evidence that micro- and nanoplastic particles can interfere with the nervous system across multiple species, including humans. Researchers found that plastic particles may disrupt cellular metabolism, affect brain development, and increase vulnerability to neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration. The authors highlight significant knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to understand the long-term neurological impacts of plastic particle exposure.
Plastic particles can interfere with the nervous system and are increasingly recognised as a global health concern. This review encompasses recent findings on the impact of plastic particles on brain health, including studies in humans, rodents, nematodes, and zebrafish. We discuss how plastics can impact cellular metabolism, affect developmental brain processes, and increase vulnerability to neurodevelopmental disorders and depression. Additionally, we review the potential of plastic particles to interact with the immune system and trigger pathological protein aggregation, enhancing susceptibility to neurodegeneration. Finally, we evaluate knowledge gaps that should be addressed to better understand the long-term impacts of plastic particles on the nervous system and neurological disorders.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics/nanoplastics and neurological health: An overview of neurological defects and mechanisms
This review summarizes evidence that micro and nanoplastics can harm the nervous system, causing developmental abnormalities, brain cell death, neurological inflammation, and potentially contributing to neurodegenerative diseases. Animal studies show that these tiny plastics can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in brain tissue, where they trigger oxidative stress and disrupt normal brain function. While direct evidence in humans is still limited, the findings suggest that chronic microplastic exposure could be a risk factor for neurological health problems.
The neurotoxic threat of micro- and nanoplastics: evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo models
This systematic review examined 26 studies showing that micro- and nanoplastics can cross into the brain, damage neurons, and trigger inflammation in lab and animal models. These findings raise concerns that long-term plastic exposure could contribute to neurological problems in humans, though more research is needed.
Impact of micro- and nanoplastics exposure on human health: focus on neurological effects from ingestion
This review compiles emerging evidence on how ingested microplastics and nanoplastics may affect the brain and nervous system. Researchers found that these particles can disrupt gut bacteria, cross the blood-brain barrier, and accumulate in neural tissue, potentially triggering inflammation, oxidative stress, and protein changes linked to cognitive problems. The study highlights an urgent need for more human research, as initial findings have associated elevated plastic particle levels in brain tissue with neurological concerns.
The plastic brain: neurotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics
This review examines the emerging evidence that micro- and nanoplastics can reach the brain in both aquatic animals and mammals, potentially causing neurotoxic effects. Researchers found that exposure to these particles induces oxidative stress, inhibits key enzymes involved in nerve signaling, and alters neurotransmitter levels, which may contribute to behavioral changes. The study highlights that systematic research comparing different particle types, sizes, and exposure conditions is urgently needed to understand the neurological risks.
Neurotoxicityof Micro- and Nanoplastics: A ComprehensiveReview of Central Nervous System Impacts
This comprehensive review examines neurotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics, synthesizing evidence that MNP exposure disrupts neural signaling, promotes neuroinflammation, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and may contribute to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.