Detection of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Blood-Relevant Matrices for Scalable Routine Testing

Abstract Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) have been detected in human blood and other tissues, raising concerns about systemic exposure and potential health effects. However, current analytical approaches remain limited by cost, scalability, and incompatibility with complex biological matrices, particularly for nanoplastics. Blood represents a clinically relevant matrix for evaluating systemic exposure, as circulating particles may interact with immune, vascular, and neurological systems. In this report, simulated blood matrices were evaluated across microplastic and nanoplastic conditions using standardized optical imaging and computational analysis. Samples were prepared under controlled conditions and assessed at defined timepoints using a non-destructive imaging workflow. Reproducible differences in optical structure (spatial heterogeneity, aggregation behavior, and temporal evolution) were observed, with nanoplastic conditions demonstrating earlier and more pronounced organization at low concentrations. Computational analysis focused on emergent optical patterns rather than direct particle counting enables detection of both micro- and nanoplastic-associated signals in intact liquid samples. These results demonstrate feasibility of a scalable, non-destructive framework for assessing systemic MNP burden and support future integration into routine monitoring and longitudinal studies. Keywords: microplastics, nanoplastics, blood, optical imaging, scalable detection, biomonitoring