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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Environmental Sources Gut & Microbiome Human Health Effects Nanoplastics Remediation Sign in to save

Presence of MNPs in Water Environment-pathways of Degradation and Impact on Organisms

Civil And Environmental Engineering Reports 2024 3 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Marcin Zając, Joanna Kotyńska, Monika Naumowicz

Summary

This literature review describes the characteristics, sources, and degradation pathways of micro- and nanoplastics in water environments and their potential impacts on living organisms. Evidence indicates that these particles enter aquatic systems through multiple routes and can interact with biological systems, though the full extent of their effects on human health requires further investigation.

In recent years, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the natural environment have become a severe issue. Therefore, it seems significant to be knowledgeable on the topic. The purpose of the literature review presented here is to describe the general characteristics of plastic particles, their main sources, degradation mechanisms, and the impact of plastic particles on individual systems of the human body. The usefulness and scale of distribution of plastics worldwide is shown, considering the increase in their production in recent years. Up-to-date literature indicates that they may influence the development of cancer, e.g. stomach, liver, or colon cancer. Scientists associate microplastics with the development of cardiovascular and immunological diseases. They also draw attention to the temporal correlation between the increased incidence of the above-civilization diseases and the increased environmental contamination with microplastics in recent decades.

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