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Unveiling the effects of micro and nano plastics in embryonic development
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Researchers reviewed how microplastics and nanoplastics can disrupt early embryo development, triggering inflammation, neurotoxicity, and abnormal cell differentiation in developing organisms. Because human embryos cannot be directly studied, 3D lab models called embryoid bodies — grown from stem cells — are emerging as an ethical and effective way to test plastic toxicity.
The improper disposal and degradation of plastics causes the formation and spread of micro and nano-sized plastic particles in the ecosystem. The widespread presence of these micro and nanoplastics leads to their accumulation in the biotic and abiotic components of the environment, thereby affecting the cellular and metabolic functions of organisms. Despite being classified as xenobiotic agents, information about their sources and exposure related to reproductive health is limited. Micro and nano plastic exposure during early developmental stages can cause abnormal embryonic development. It can trigger neurotoxicity and inflammatory responses as well in the developing embryo. In embryonic development, a comprehensive study of their role in pluripotency, gastrulation, and multi-differentiation potential is scarce. Due to ethical concerns associated with the direct use of human embryos, pluripotent cells and its 3D in vitro models (with cell lines) are an alternative source for effective research. Thus, the 3D Embryoid body (EB) model provides a platform for conducting embryotoxicity and multi-differentiation potential research. Pluripotent stem cells such as embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells derived embryoid bodies (EBs) serve as a robust 3D in vitro model that mimics characteristics similar to that of human embryos. Thus, the 3D EB model provides a platform for conducting embryotoxicity and multi-differentiation potential research. Accordingly, this review discusses the significance of 3D in vitro models in conducting effective embryotoxicity research. Further, we also evaluated the possible sources/routes of microplastic generation and analyzed their surface chemistry and cytotoxic effects reported till date.
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Human Embryos, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, and Organoids: Models to Assess the Effects of Environmental Plastic Pollution
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This review evaluated human embryos, induced pluripotent stem cells, and organoids as models for studying plastic pollution health effects, arguing that these human-derived systems better capture species-specific molecular responses to micro- and nanoplastics than conventional animal models and should be prioritized in risk assessment research.
Environmental nano-particulates induced pre-implantation embryonic toxicity in pluripotent stem cell-derived blastoids
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Researchers used stem cell-derived blastoids as a model to study how nano-sized pollutants, including polystyrene nanoplastics and carbon black nanoparticles, affect early embryonic development. They found that both pollutants impaired the structure and cell specialization of the embryo models in a dose-dependent manner. The study provides a new high-throughput platform for assessing early developmental toxicity from environmental nanoparticle exposure.
Human organoids to assess environmental contaminants toxicity and mode of action: towards New Approach Methodologies
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This review explores how human organoids, miniature lab-grown organ models, can be used to test the toxicity of environmental contaminants including microplastics. These 3D tissue models offer a more accurate picture of how pollutants affect human cells than traditional lab tests, though more work is needed to simulate the chronic, low-dose exposures people actually experience.
Advancing Microplastic and Nanoplastic Toxicity Assessment: Insights from Human Organoid Models
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This review examines how human stem cell-derived organoids are being used to study the toxic effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on human tissues. Researchers found that organoid models of the gut, lung, brain, and other organs provide more human-relevant data than traditional animal testing for assessing plastic particle toxicity. The study suggests that organoid technology could significantly advance understanding of how microplastics affect human health at the tissue and organ level.
Exploring developmental toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPS): Insights from investigations using zebrafish embryos
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This review summarizes research on how micro- and nanoplastics harm embryo development using zebrafish as a model organism that shares genetic similarities with humans. Studies show these tiny plastic particles cause damage to the brain, heart, gut, and immune system of developing embryos, largely through oxidative stress and cell death pathways.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.