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Micro- and nanoplastics in neurological dysfunction

Trends in Neurosciences 2026
Sean M. Gettings, Riddhi Sharma, Nora Bourbia

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.

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