Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics exposure disturbed gut microbiota and exacerbated colitis in dextran sulfate sodium-treated mice

Polydisperse polystyrene microplastics exacerbate colitis through gut microbiota-butyrate-PPARγ axis disruption in mice

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This study demonstrates that exposure to polydisperse polystyrene microplastics worsens colitis symptoms in experimental animal models. The microplastics appear to aggravate intestinal inflammation by disrupting gut barrier function and amplifying immune responses. These results raise concern about microplastic exposure as a potential risk factor for inflammatory bowel conditions.

Gut microbiome alterations associated with microplastics: Underestimated risk from tiny particle

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This review pulls together existing research showing that tiny plastic particles, found in our food, water, and even air, can disrupt the balance of bacteria living in our gut, and this disruption has been linked to problems ranging from digestive diseases to effects on the brain, liver, and reproductive system in animal studies. The catch: scientists still struggle to accurately detect and measure these particles in the body, meaning our real-world exposure and its health effects are likely underestimated. Bottom line, microplastics may be quietly messing with your gut health in ways we're only beginning to understand and measure.

Polyethylene terephthalate microplastics affect gut microbiota distribution and intestinal damage in mice

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Mice exposed to PET microplastics, the type commonly found in plastic bottles, developed intestinal inflammation, changes in gut bacteria, and signs of a weakened gut barrier. Even at relatively low doses, the microplastics increased liver stress markers and disrupted the protective mucus layer in the colon, suggesting that everyday PET plastic exposure could contribute to digestive health problems.

Impact of Microplastics on the Severity of Intestinal Inflammation in Mice

Impact of microplastics on the intestinal microbiota: A systematic review of preclinical evidence

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Across 28 preclinical studies, microplastics triggered intestinal dysbiosis characterized by increased Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and decreased Bacteroidetes, while increasing gut permeability and elevating pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6.