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Microplastic and nanoplastic exposure and risk of diabetes mellitus
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This editorial highlights emerging evidence linking microplastic and nanoplastic exposure to potential risks for diabetes mellitus. Researchers note that these particles can cause DNA damage, oxidative stress, and cytotoxicity, with known impacts on the liver and respiratory system, and growing concern about effects on metabolic processes. The study calls attention to the risk of co-exposure to chemical contaminants adsorbed onto microplastics, which may compound the potential health effects.
The issue of plastic pollutants has become a growing concern. Both microplastics (MPs) (particle size < 5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs) (particle size < 1 µm) can cause DNA damage, cytotoxicity, and oxidative stress in various organisms. The primary known impacts of microplastic/nanoplastic are observed in the liver and respiratory system, leading to hepatotoxicity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although research on the effects of MPs and NPs on diabetes is still in its early stages, there are potential concerns. This editorial highlights the risk to diabetics from co-exposure to contaminants and MPs/NPs, supported by evidence from animal studies and the various chemical compositions of MPs/NPs.
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Exploring the micro- and nanoplastics–diabetes nexus: Shattered barriers, toxic links, and methodological horizons
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This review examines growing evidence that micro- and nanoplastics may contribute to diabetes by disrupting blood sugar regulation, insulin signaling, and fat metabolism through oxidative stress and inflammation. Animal studies show that plastic particles can damage the pancreas, liver, and gut in ways that mirror the development of diabetes, though human studies are still limited. The review calls for more research into whether everyday microplastic exposure could be a hidden factor in the global rise of metabolic diseases.
Emerging Contaminants: An Emerging Risk Factor for Diabetes Mellitus
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This review examines how emerging environmental contaminants, including microplastics and nanoplastics, may contribute to the development and progression of diabetes. These contaminants can disrupt glucose metabolism through oxidative stress, inflammation, and interference with hormone signaling. The findings suggest that chronic exposure to microplastics and other pollutants in food and water could be an overlooked risk factor for the growing global diabetes epidemic.
Adverse Effects of Nanoplastics Administration on the Metabolic Profile and Glucose Control in Mice
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This systematic review examines how nanoplastic exposure in mice affects metabolism and blood sugar control. The findings suggest that ingesting nanoplastics may disrupt metabolic processes and glucose regulation in mammals, raising concerns about potential links between everyday plastic exposure and metabolic health conditions like diabetes in humans.
Airborne Nanoplastics Exposure Inducing Irreversible Glucose Increase and Complete Hepatic Insulin Resistance
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Mice exposed to airborne nanoplastics developed irreversible increases in blood sugar and complete insulin resistance in the liver, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. The nanoplastics triggered widespread inflammation and disrupted key metabolic pathways at concentrations similar to what people might actually breathe in polluted areas. This is one of the first studies to show that inhaling tiny plastic particles could directly contribute to metabolic diseases like diabetes.
New Insights into the Relationship Between Microplastics and Diabetes from the Perspective of the Gut–Liver Axis and Macrophage Regulation
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This review paper summarizes research suggesting that tiny plastic particles (microplastics) we're exposed to from the environment might increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The studies show microplastics could damage the gut, trigger inflammation, and disrupt how the body processes sugar, though this evidence comes mainly from animal studies rather than human research. While more human studies are needed to confirm these effects, the findings suggest reducing plastic pollution could be important for preventing diabetes and other metabolic diseases.
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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.