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Microplastics in the Olfactory Bulb of the Human Brain
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Researchers found microplastic particles in the olfactory bulb, the part of the human brain responsible for the sense of smell. This suggests that microplastics may reach the brain through the nasal passage, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. The finding highlights a potential direct route for microplastics to enter the brain, raising concerns about neurotoxicity.
This case series provides evidence of MPs found in the human olfactory bulb, suggesting a potential pathway for the translocation of MPs to the brain. The findings underscore the need for further research on the health implications of MP exposure, particularly concerning neurotoxicity and the potential for MPs to bypass the blood-brain barrier.
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Inhaled Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Brain Exposure via the Olfactory Pathway and Emerging Therapeutic Opportunities
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Researchers outline how inhaled micro- and nanoplastics can travel from the nasal cavity directly to the brain via the olfactory pathway, and propose emerging countermeasures including nasal sequestration systems and lipid nanoparticle therapeutics to address particulate burden beyond conventional masks and filtration.
Inhaled Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Brain Exposure via the Olfactory Pathway and Emerging Therapeutic Opportunities
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Researchers reviewed how inhaled airborne microplastics and nanoplastics can translocate from the nasal cavity directly to the brain via the olfactory pathway, and outlined potential therapeutic strategies — including nasal sequestration agents, lung-targeted approaches, and lipid nanoparticle drug delivery — to complement physical barriers in high-exposure settings.
A systematic review of the potential neurotoxicity of micro-and nanoplastics: the known and unknown
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This critical review of 234 studies found that micro- and nanoplastics can reach the brain via olfactory translocation or by crossing the blood-brain barrier, where they may cause neuroinflammation, oxidative damage, and behavioral changes in animal models. The evidence raises significant concerns about potential neurotoxic effects of chronic microplastic exposure in humans, though major knowledge gaps remain.
Neurotoxic and Systemic Implications of Microplastics and Nanoparticles: A Path Towards Environmental and Biological Remediation
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This review summarizes evidence that microplastics and nanoparticles accumulate in human tissues including brain, reproductive organs, and the cardiovascular system, causing oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and systemic toxicity. It discusses the olfactory pathway as a route for MPs to bypass the blood-brain barrier and highlights potential remediation approaches including dietary strategies.
Bioeffects of Inhaled Nanoplastics on Neurons and Alteration of Animal Behaviors through Deposition in the Brain
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Researchers demonstrated that nanoplastics inhaled through the nose can travel along the olfactory nerve and deposit directly in the brain, causing neuron damage and altered behavior in mice. Using a microfluidic chip to study neuron interactions, they found that smaller particles with specific surface charges caused the most severe cell damage. The study provides direct evidence that airborne nanoplastics can reach the brain through inhalation and may pose neurotoxic risks.
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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.