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Micro- and nanoplastics: origin, sources of intake and impact on human health (literature review)
Summary
This literature review synthesizes mechanisms by which micro- and nanoplastics interact with living organisms, examining their physicochemical properties, routes of human exposure, and documented health effects across multiple organ systems.
This review aims to consolidate information on the mechanisms of interaction between microplastics and living organisms and analyze the impact of these processes on health. For this review, relevant scientific reports were found through an online search in the bibliographic resources Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Accumulated scientific research convincingly demonstrates micro- and nanoplastics to represent an increasingly serious problem for the environment and human health, requiring a comprehensive and multifaceted consideration. Their widespread occurrence in natural systems and the human body and their unique physicochemical properties, distinguish them as an emerging pollutant that can have a significant adverse impact on various organs and systems, including the endocrine, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems. Despite the progress made in their study, significant gaps in understanding remain, especially with regard to the mechanisms of toxic effects, the effects of long-term exposure and interactions with other chemical compounds.Conclusion. There is a need to intensify scientific research, develop better detection methods and implement effective strategies to reduce adverse impacts at both local and global levels. There is also emphasized the need to develop effective public policies, update regulations, improve environmental awareness and revise consumption patterns, which will reduce plastic production and promote the development of a circular economy. Only through concerted action by governments, industry, the scientific community, and citizens will it be possible to effectively address this problem, ensuring the protection of human health and the preservation of the planet.Contribution: Lukin A.A. — writing the article; Gazeev I.R. — review concept; Gizatova N.V. — compiling a summary, literary processing; Latypova G.F. — data processing. All authors are responsible for the integrity of all parts of the manuscript and approval of the manuscript final version.Conflict of interest. The authors declare no conflict of interest.Funding. The study had no sponsorship.Received: July 7, 2025 / Accepted: October 15, 2025 / Published: November 14, 2025