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Invisible Contamination: a One Health Perspective on Micro and Nanoplastics
Summary
This systematic review takes a One Health approach to examine how micro- and nanoplastics affect humans, animals, and the environment as interconnected systems. The research shows that plastics accumulate across food chains and can cause toxic effects in multiple species, including humans. The One Health perspective is important because it recognizes that microplastic pollution in the environment inevitably becomes a human health problem.
Objective: This study aims to understand the origin, dispersion, and effects of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in the environment and living organisms, discussing their relevance as an emerging threat to human, animal, and environmental health under the One Health perspective. Theoretical Framework: The work is grounded in concepts related to plastic pollution, environmental toxicology, public and ecosystem health. Studies addressing exposure pathways, mechanisms of toxicity, bioaccumulation, and impacts on organisms are highlighted, reinforcing the complexity of the issue. Method: This is a narrative review inspired by the PRISMA guidelines, encompassing a qualitative-quantitative and descriptive approach. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases (2015–2025), using standardized descriptors. Selection included original studies, systematic reviews, and institutional reports addressing sources, exposure, and toxicological effects. Results and Discussion: The findings show that MPs/NPs are widely distributed in the environment, reaching organisms and humans through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Evidence indicates bioaccumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and presence of particles in blood, placenta, and lungs, reinforcing public health concerns. Methodological gaps remain regarding standardization and chronic exposure effects. Research Implications: The results highlight the urgency of preventive policies, environmental monitoring, regulation, and mitigation strategies, as well as the need for further studies under a One Health lens. Originality/Value: This study contributes by integrating recent evidence and emphasizing MPs/NPs as emerging contaminants with multidimensional risks, supporting scientific advancement and public decision-making.
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