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Neurotoxicityof Micro- and Nanoplastics: A ComprehensiveReview of Central Nervous System Impacts

Figshare 2025 Score: 48 ? 0–100 AI score estimating relevance to the microplastics field. Papers below 30 are filtered from public browse.
Qianwen Ma (10784999), Jialin Lei (4906843), Yanting Pang (12375573), Yu Shen (10486), Ting Zhang (102583)

Summary

This comprehensive review examines neurotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics, synthesizing evidence that MNP exposure disrupts neural signaling, promotes neuroinflammation, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and may contribute to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Body Systems
Models

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), originating from plastic wastes degradation, industrial processes, and textile fiber shedding, persist in the environment and act as carriers of hazardous substances, posing significant global health risks. Growing evidence links MNPs exposure to neurotoxicity; however, substantial knowledge gaps remain regarding their environmental distribution, cellular effects, and epidemiological consequences. This review systematically examines the sources and exposure pathways of MNPs, as well as their potential contribution to neurological disorders. It outlines key neurotoxic effects, including neuronal damage, synaptic dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disruption, neuroinflammation, and protein aggregation, which may contribute to cognitive decline and motor impairments. Additionally, it explores the underlying mechanisms of MNPs-induced toxicity, such as oxidative stress, immune responses, mitochondrial dysfunction, cell death signaling, and the gut-brain axis. Given the complexity of MNPs interactions, the study highlights the need for future research on coexposure effects with other pollutants and their impact on MNPs toxicity. Finally, this article advocates for stricter MNPs pollution control, advancements in detection technologies, and a deeper understanding of neurotoxic mechanisms, emphasizing the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration to assess and mitigate associated health risks.

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