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Exposure to microplastics/ nanoplastics induces responses of microglia and astrocytes: roles of oxidative stress and autophagy
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This study investigated how microplastic and nanoplastic exposure affects glial cells including microglia and astrocytes in the central nervous system, which are essential for neurological immune defense and homeostasis. Exposure triggered reactive responses in both cell types, raising concern that plastic particle accumulation in the brain could contribute to neuroinflammation.
[Introduction] Humans are increasingly exposed to microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) from air or food via inhalation or oral uptake, and intestine and lung damages have been reported. However, the effects of MPs/NPs on the CNS remain largely unknown. Glial cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, play essential roles in the CNS, including response to external stimuli. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MPs/NPs on microglia and astrocytes, as well as effects of co-exposure to BaP, which can potentially be absorbed by MPs/NPs. [Methods] BV2 microglia and KT-5 astrocytes were exposed to serial concentrations of MPs/NPs with different sizes and surface modifications, with or without co-exposure to BaP. MTS and LDH assay were performed to evaluate cell viability and membrane integrity. The uptake of MPs/NPs was observed with fluorescent microscope. The expression of genes was measured via qPCR or ELISA. Oxidative stress and autophagy were measured via relative assays. [Results] Exposure to MPs/NPs with different sizes (25, 100, 250, 1000nm) and surface modifications (plain, NH2, COOH) induced different changes in cell viability and membrane integrity of BV2 and KT-5 cells. Uptake of MPs/NPs was confirmed in BV2 and KT-5 cells, both in mono- or BaP-coexposed groups. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress related genes showed different changes when exposed to different plastics. The results also showed upregulation of genes related to oxidative stress and autophagy signaling. In conclusion, exposure to MPs/NPs induced different responses in microglia and astrocytes, and the effects are both size- and surface-dependent. Further investigation is needed to understand the mechanism. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/557054/document
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Exposure to microplastics/ nanoplastics induces responses of microglia and astrocytes: roles of oxidative stress and autophagy
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This study examined how microplastic and nanoplastic exposure affects glial cells in the central nervous system, specifically investigating responses of microglia and astrocytes, which are the brain's primary immune and support cells. Results showed that micro- and nanoplastic exposure triggered inflammatory-type responses in these cells, raising concern for neurological effects.
Microplastics and Their Effect on Neuroglia: A Narrative Review
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This narrative review examines how microplastics — entering the body through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact — may accumulate in neuroglial cells of the brain, raising concern about their role in neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative disease progression.
Brain under siege: the role of micro and nanoplastics in neuroinflammation and oxidative stress
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This review examines emerging evidence that micro- and nanoplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in nervous tissue, potentially triggering neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Researchers summarized findings showing these particles may act as neurotoxicants that contribute to synaptic dysfunction and pathological changes in brain cells. The study highlights the need for further research into how chronic plastic particle exposure may affect central nervous system health over time.
Polystyrene Micro- and Nanoplastic Exposure Triggers an Activation and Stress Response in Human Astrocytes
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Researchers exposed primary human astrocytes to polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics and found that these particles triggered cellular stress responses, including increased production of reactive oxygen species and activation of inflammatory pathways. Nanoplastics were particularly effective at penetrating cells and disrupting normal astrocyte function. The findings suggest that plastic particle exposure may contribute to neuroinflammatory processes in the brain, warranting further investigation into potential neurotoxic effects.
Neurotoxicities induced by micro/nanoplastics: A review focusing on the risks of neurological diseases
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This review summarizes evidence that micro- and nanoplastics can reach the brain through the bloodstream and nerve pathways, where they trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell damage that may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The particles are found in air, water, soil, and food, meaning humans are constantly exposed through breathing, eating, and skin contact, making brain effects a serious long-term concern.
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