The role of microplastics in elevated risk and tissues metabolic alterations in uterine fibroid of female patients

Microplastic (MP) pollution is an emerging environmental issue, drawing increasing attention to its potential harm to human reproductive health. This is a prospective study involving 160 human samples. MPs in tissue and blood samples were analyzed using Raman spectroscopy, while their impact on the metabolic characteristics of diseased tissues was evaluated using non-targeted techniques. The study finds that a total of 13 types of MPs are identified in all samples, with polyethylene and polypropylene being the most abundant polymers. Exposure levels of MPs are significantly higher in diseased tissues compare to normal tissues and tissues from healthy people (p < 0.01). It is also find that exposure to polyethylene increases the risk of uterine fibroids (UFs) compare to healthy individuals. Additionally, the study finds a positive correlation between MP exposure levels and the size of UFs. This suggests that polyethylene may be linked to the growth of UFs. Metabolomics analysis reveals changes in the relative abundance of key differential metabolites. Certain metabolic pathways, such as amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism pathways were significantly enriched and exhibited an upward trend, while the biosynthesis of cofactors, and platelet activation pathways showed a downward trend. The findings of this study suggest a potential association between MP exposure and the development and progression of UFs in women, offering valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms research.