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Correlative spectroscopy and microscopy analysis of micro- and nanoplastics in complex biological matrices
Summary
Researchers combined fluorescence microscopy, second harmonic generation imaging, and coherent Raman scattering to detect and map micro- and nanoplastics in lung cells, zebrafish, and mouse tissues. Polystyrene nanoplastics were found to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in lipid-rich brain regions in animal models.
Plastic pollution, particularly micro- and nanoplastic (MNP) particles, poses a significant threat to the environment and human health, with potential risks arising from ingestion and inhalation. These particles can penetrate biological barriers, leading to their detection in various human tissues. Controlled experiments on animals and cell cultures suggest that MNPs can disrupt bodily functions and induce toxicity due to chemicals they carry. However, detecting MNPs in biological samples noninvasively presents challenges. The study employs advanced microscopy techniques like Fluorescence (FL) and Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) microscopy, along with label-free Coherent Raman Scattering imaging, to distinguish MNPs from biological backgrounds. These methods, integrated into a single instrument, enable precise imaging of MNPs in lung cells, zebrafish, and mouse tissues. Results show that lung cells exposed to polystyrene (PS) particles exhibit adhesion and ingestion of these particles, leading to cytotoxicity and nutrient uptake limitations. Machine learning aids in locating and categorizing MNPs based on their characteristics. In vivo experiments reveal PS accumulation in the organs of zebrafish and mice, with nanoplastics even crossing the blood-brain barrier and accumulating in lipid-rich regions. The study underscores the importance of optical technologies in understanding MNP-induced cytotoxicity and organ accumulation. It emphasizes the utility of correlative imaging for assessing MNPs' impact on biological systems across species. The fast, large-area, and label-free imaging techniques employed promise valuable insights into MNPs' distribution, enhancing our understanding of their relevance to human health and the environment. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the significance of advanced optical imaging methods for detecting, quantifying, and characterizing MNPs in complex biological contexts. It highlights the potential of these techniques to shed light on MNPs' biodistribution and their implications for human health, thus contributing to ongoing efforts to mitigate plastic pollution's impact. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/555107/document