We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Efecto de los microplásticos de poliestireno sobre el citoesqueleto de células humanas
Summary
Researchers investigated the effects of polystyrene microplastics on the cytoskeleton of human cells, examining how these particles interact with the structural framework that maintains cell shape and function. They found that exposure to polystyrene particles disrupted cytoskeletal organization in the cultured cells. The study contributes to growing evidence that microplastics may interfere with fundamental cellular structures in human tissue.
Plastic has become very popular in recent years due to its durability and properties. Despite its many advantages, humanity has developed a certain dependence on this material, which represents an increase in its use and in turn, in waste. One of the most widely used plastic polymers is the polystyrene (PS), as is used in a wide range of applications due to its low cost and easy production, although after the useful life of the plastic, it is considered as waste. When plastic is exposure to atmospheric conditions such as UV radiation, it degrades and fragments giving rise to microplastics (MPs), which are defined as small particles that do not exceed 5 mm, representing a threat to the environment because when they degrade the properties decay, a dimensional change is generated, and they can also be easily transported not only to the environment but also to organisms. This review article focuses on highlighting the main pathways that MPs follow when interacting with humans and the potential effects of PS-MPs on the cytoskeleton, as well as highlighting the need for more studies in this regard. Key words: Cells; cell-plastic contact; emerging pollutants; polymers; microplastics.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Human Kidney and Liver Cell Morphology, Cellular Proliferation, and Metabolism
Researchers exposed human kidney and liver cells to polystyrene microplastics of different sizes and concentrations to assess their effects on cell health. They found that microplastics altered cell shape, reduced proliferation, and disrupted cellular metabolism, with smaller particles generally causing more damage. The findings suggest that microplastics reaching internal organs could have measurable effects at the cellular level.
Polystyrene microplastic particles: In vitro pulmonary toxicity assessment
Researchers tested the effects of polystyrene microplastics on human lung cells in the laboratory and found that the particles triggered inflammation and oxidative stress. The microplastics also weakened the protective barrier function of lung tissue by depleting key structural proteins. The study suggests that inhaling microplastics may increase the risk of respiratory problems by damaging the lung's natural defenses.
Effect of Polystyrene Microplastics on Tube Formation and Viability of Endothelial Cells
Lab experiments found that polystyrene microplastics impaired the ability of human endothelial cells (which line blood vessels) to form tube-like structures and reduced cell viability at higher concentrations. This is early evidence that microplastics entering the bloodstream may damage vascular cells, with potential implications for cardiovascular health.
Dissection of the potential mechanism of polystyrene microplastic exposure on cardiomyocytes
Researchers investigated how polystyrene microplastics affect human heart muscle cells at concentrations reflecting estimated daily human intake levels. They found that the microplastics caused oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disrupted calcium signaling in the cells. The study suggests that microplastic exposure may contribute to cardiovascular risks by directly damaging heart cell function at the cellular level.
Exposure of microplastic at levels relevant for human health : cytotoxicity and cellular localization of polystyrene microparticles in four human cell lines
Researchers tested the cytotoxicity of polystyrene microplastics on four human cell lines at concentrations relevant to real-world human exposure from food, water, and packaging. At environmentally realistic doses, microplastics were taken up by cells but did not cause significant toxicity, though higher concentrations did produce cell damage, suggesting that current exposure levels may be near a threshold of concern.