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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Detection Methods Human Health Effects Sign in to save

Microplastics in Human Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid

Respirology 2025 2 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Takatomo Tokito, Takashi Kido, Osamu Nagafuchi, Koichi Tomoshige, Koyomi Nakazawa, Ken’ichi Shinozuka, Shuntaro Sato, Kumiko Kido, Yasuko Noguchi, Takamune Matsumoto, Satoshi Mizoguchi, Ritsuko Murakami, Hirokazu Yura, Hiroshi Ishimoto, Takahiro Takazono, Noriho Sakamoto, Yuji Ishimatsu, Yoshimasa Tanaka, Keitaro Matsumoto, Takeshi Nagayasu, Hiroshi Mukae

Summary

Researchers developed a new method for detecting microplastics in fluid washed from human lungs (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) and found plastic particles present in every patient tested. They also applied Nile Red staining for the first time to visualize plastics in lung samples, which proved effective for screening and counting particles. The findings provide direct evidence that microplastics are present in the human respiratory system, with a potential link to lung inflammation.

Body Systems
Immune Respiratory
Models
Human

We established a method for detecting microplastics in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Microplastics were found in all patients, with a potential link to inflammation. In addition, Nile Red staining was applied for the first time to detect plastics in the lung and appeared to be useful for screening and quantification.

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