We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Key mechanisms of micro- and nanoplastic (MNP) toxicity across taxonomic groups
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the key ways micro- and nanoplastics cause biological harm across different types of organisms, from bacteria to humans. Researchers identified several common toxicity mechanisms including cell membrane damage, reactive oxygen species generation, DNA damage, and disruption of cellular structures like lysosomes and mitochondria. The study found that toxicity depends heavily on particle size, surface characteristics, and polymer type, and that human cell studies provide especially valuable insights into potential health risks.
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous in aquatic and terrestrial environments, and detrimental biological effects have been observed on a variety of organisms, from bacteria and alga to plants and animals. A fast-growing number of toxicological studies report diverse responses and wide species-dependent sensitivity upon MNP exposure. While studies are dominated by in vivo animal tests, our understanding of cellular toxicity and the corresponding toxicity mechanisms is still limited. This challenges the proper assessment of environmental hazards and health risks of MNPs. In this review, we gathered and analyzed the up-to-date studies on humans, animals, plants, alga, and bacteria, and identified the similarities and differences in key toxicity mechanisms of MNPs across different taxonomic groups. Particularly, human cell-based studies at the cellular level provide fundamental and valuable information on the key toxicity mechanisms, which are essential to answer the question of whether and how MNPs pose health threats. In general, toxicity mechanisms of MNPs depend on their size, surface characteristics, polymer type, as well as cell type. Plausible toxicity mechanisms mainly include membrane disruption, extracellular polymeric substance disruption, reactive oxygen species generation, DNA damage, cell pore blockage, lysosome destabilization, and mitochondrial depolarization. A deeper understanding of these key mechanisms in different taxonomic groups can also improve both in vivo and in vitro models useful for predictive impact assessments of plastic pollution on the environment and human health.
More Papers Like This
Micro-and Nanoplastic-Induced Biochemical Toxicity: Emerging Mechanisms and Health Risks Across Biological Systems
AI summary Read the abstract
This comprehensive review synthesizes current understanding of how micro- and nanoplastics cause biochemical toxicity across biological systems, from plants and invertebrates to vertebrates and humans. Key mechanisms include oxidative stress, membrane disruption, immune activation, genotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and microbiome perturbation, all modulated by particle size, shape, and surface chemistry. The authors highlight critical gaps in standardization, chronic low-dose effect data, and the need for translatable biomarkers for risk assessment.
Research progress on the cellular toxicity caused by microplastics and nanoplastics
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes current research on how microplastics and nanoplastics cause damage at the cellular level. Researchers identified four main ways these particles harm cells: triggering oxidative stress, damaging cell membranes and organelles, causing inflammation, and disrupting DNA. The findings highlight growing evidence that plastic particles small enough to enter cells can interfere with fundamental biological processes.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Health Concerning Cellular Toxicity Mechanisms, Exposure Pathways, and Global Mitigation Strategies
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesizes current knowledge on how micro- and nanoplastics cause cellular damage in the human body, covering mechanisms like oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and disruption of cell signaling pathways. Researchers note that exposure occurs through multiple routes including ingestion and inhalation, allowing particles to reach organs throughout the body. The study highlights significant gaps in understanding long-term and low-dose exposure effects that are most relevant to everyday human contact with these particles.
Micro/nanoplastics and human health: A review of the evidence, consequences, and toxicity assessment
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes evidence that micro and nanoplastics have been found in multiple human organs and body fluids, where they can alter cell shape, damage mitochondria, reduce cell survival, and cause oxidative stress. The health effects depend heavily on the size, shape, and chemical makeup of the particles, with smaller nanoplastics generally posing the greatest risk because they penetrate deeper into tissues. The review provides a framework for assessing how dangerous different types of plastic particles are to human health.
Micro- and nanoplastic induced cellular toxicity in mammals: A review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines research on how micro- and nanoplastics cause cellular damage in mammalian systems, covering both laboratory and animal studies. Evidence indicates that these particles can trigger oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage in cells, with smaller nanoplastics generally showing greater toxicity due to their ability to penetrate cell membranes more readily.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.