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From exposure to oncogenesis: a review on the multifaceted roles of microplastics in tumor initiation and progression
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This review examined the evidence linking microplastic exposure to tumor initiation and progression, covering physical, chemical, and inflammatory mechanisms by which MPs may promote oncogenesis. The authors conclude that while current evidence is largely preclinical, accumulating data warrant serious concern about microplastics as environmental carcinogens.
BACKGROUND: Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental pollutants that pose significant health risks. While their prevalence in ecosystems is well-established, their accumulation in the human body and potential role in tumorigenesis demand further investigation. This review examines the potential links between MPs exposure and tumor development, providing a comprehensive analysis of their pathways from environmental sources to human exposure and the mechanisms by which they may exert their effects. MAIN BODY: MPs not only serve as carriers for other pollutants, thereby amplifying exposure risks, but also accumulate in human tissues, disrupting cellular homeostasis through various pathways, such as oxidative stress induction, organelle damage, physical barrier disruption, and chronic inflammation. Recent studies suggest that MPs may influence the tumor microenvironment, potentially facilitating tumor progression through immune–metabolic reprogramming. Although epidemiological studies indicate a correlation between exposure and chronic disease the precise mechanisms underlying their in vivo accumulation and the complete carcinogenic process remain unclear. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, this review aims to establish a scientific basis for evaluating the health risks posed by MPs and for developing effective control strategies. Given that the comprehension of MPs toxicity is still in its early stages, future research must prioritize elucidating the influence of exposure concentration, particle characteristics, and individual susceptibility to fully define the oncogenic threat posed by these pollutants.
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This review examines growing evidence that microplastics and nanoplastics may play a role in cancer development, with these particles found in human tumor tissues from the lungs, colon, stomach, breast, and other organs. The particles appear to promote cancer through chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and disruption of key cancer-related signaling pathways. While direct proof of causation in humans is still lacking, the accumulating evidence from lab studies, animal experiments, and human tissue analysis suggests microplastics deserve serious attention as potential contributors to cancer risk.
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This review examines the growing evidence linking microplastic exposure to cancer development in humans. Microplastics can accumulate in the body and trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and other biological changes associated with tumor growth. While more clinical research is needed, the review highlights that microplastics should be taken seriously as a potential factor in cancer risk.
Microplastic-induced carcinogenesis: Molecular mechanisms, cellular interactions, and toxicological implications
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Tiny plastic particles that we breathe, eat, and touch every day are now showing up in our blood, lungs, and other organs, and this review of existing research explains how they might contribute to cancer. Microplastics can trigger cell damage, inflammation, and disrupted signaling in ways linked to tumor growth, and they can also act like tiny rafts that ferry other harmful chemicals and toxins deeper into our bodies. While scientists haven't proven microplastics directly cause cancer in humans yet, the mounting evidence is a strong signal that reducing plastic exposure and pushing for more research should be a public health pri
From Exposure to Oncogenesis: the Role of Microplastics and Associated Pollutants in Cancer - a Literature Review
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This literature review examined the growing evidence linking microplastic exposure to cancer development. Microplastics have been found in human lung, liver, and colon tissue, and research suggests they may promote cancer through chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and by carrying known carcinogens like heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants into the body.
The Relationship Between Microplastics and Nanoplastics with Cancer: An Emerging Health Concern
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This review explores the emerging relationship between micro- and nanoplastic exposure and cancer risk in humans. Researchers summarized evidence suggesting that microplastics can carry carcinogenic substances and may trigger inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways linked to tumor development. The study highlights that while early evidence raises concern, more research is needed to establish clear causal connections between plastic particle exposure and specific cancer types.
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