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Sources and distributions of microplastics and the hazards to plants, animals and human health:A review.
Summary
This review examines the sources, distribution, and health impacts of microplastics on plants, animals, and humans. Researchers found that microplastics enter organisms through multiple exposure pathways and can adsorb heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants due to their large surface area, potentially amplifying adverse effects on metabolism and overall health.
The increases in plastic production and inadequate plastic waste management have significantly increased the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment. MPs refer to plastic fragments and particles with a size smaller than 5 millimeters. Numerous studies have focused on the impacts of MPs on the environment and living organisms, and explored the potential mechanisms. Humans and other organisms can ingest or carry MPs through various pathways, which have a range of adverse effects on metabolism, functionality, and health. Additionally, due to their larger surface area, MPs could adsorb various pollutants, including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, severely affecting the health of animals and humans. Based on research on MPs in recent years, we reviewed the sources and distribution of MPs, examined exposure pathways, toxic effects, and toxicological mechanisms on plants, animals, and human bodies, and provided a prospective outlook on future directions for MP research. This review would be a reference for further assessments of the health risks of MPs.