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The Need to Implement Innovative Technologies to Advance Research on the Biotoxicity of Micro- and Nanoplastics
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This review examines the limitations of current animal models for studying the biotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics and argues for the adoption of innovative technologies such as organoids, organ-on-chip platforms, and advanced imaging. It calls for mechanistic studies that move beyond descriptive toxicity characterisation.
Environmental micro- and nanoplastic pollution is becoming increasingly severe; it can infiltrate organisms and cause tissue dysfunction, posing a potential hidden danger that may lead to human diseases and exacerbate the severity of this pollution. In recent years, the biotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) has been extensively investigated using animal models. However, most studies and reports have not sufficiently explored the specific mechanisms of biological hazards. Here, we summarize several mechanisms through which MNPs induce brain injury. These studies indicate that the application of interdisciplinary technologies has enhanced toxicological investigations of these tiny particles, helping to clarify their underlying mechanisms. For example, the use of brain in vivo imaging technology enables real-time monitoring of MNPs in living mice, facilitating the observation and recording of their functional processes and elucidating their toxicological effects. To advance in this field, it is essential to incorporate high-definition imaging technology, organoids, bioinformatics, big data analysis, and other innovations into micro- and nanoplastic toxicology research. Researchers should effectively link these advanced technologies to specific scientific challenges to better elucidate the mechanisms underlying micro- and nanoplastic biohazards, establish foundational theories in this area, and foster the integration of environmental science with life sciences.
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This review paper summarizes existing research on how microplastics may affect human health, including the limits of current lab and animal studies. It discusses "organ-on-a-chip" devices, small lab systems using human cells grown in 3D, as a possible better way to study how microplastics interact with the body.
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This review examines how human stem cell-derived organoids are being used to study the toxic effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on human tissues. Researchers found that organoid models of the gut, lung, brain, and other organs provide more human-relevant data than traditional animal testing for assessing plastic particle toxicity. The study suggests that organoid technology could significantly advance understanding of how microplastics affect human health at the tissue and organ level.
A critical viewpoint on current issues, limitations, and future research needs on micro- and nanoplastic studies: From the detection to the toxicological assessment.
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This critical review examines the current methods for detecting and characterizing micro- and nanoplastics in various environmental samples, as well as reported toxic effects from in vivo and in vitro studies. The authors found that while substantial effort has been made to understand microplastic behavior, the scientific community is still far from a complete understanding of how these particles behave in biological systems. The review calls for improved standardized protocols and more studies focused on uptake kinetics, accumulation, and biodistribution.
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This review compiles recent studies on the effects of ingested micro- and nanoplastics using mammalian in vivo and in vitro models to assess potential human health implications. The authors found that while substantial research effort has been made, significant gaps remain in understanding absorption, biodistribution, and toxicity of these particles in mammalian systems. The review provides recommendations for improved testing methods to generate more relevant and targeted data for human risk assessment.
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