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Micro- and Nanoplastics as Emerging Environmental Determinants of Human Health: A Narrative Review

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) 2026
Jan Frey, Katarzyna Cetera-Szmajduch, Anna Byra, Marta Kowalczyk, Maciej Bulwa, Alicja Białas, Zuzanna Kowalska, Zuzanna Kowalska, Aleksandra Wójciak

Summary

This narrative review explores the existing evidence linking micro- and nanoplastic exposure to potential health-related outcomes across multiple organ systems. Researchers found increasing experimental and observational evidence indicating that exposure to these particles may be associated with adverse biological effects. The review highlights the need for further clinical research to understand the full scope of microplastic impacts on human health.

Introduction: Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) constitute a growing environmental burden with potential relevance to human health, raising concerns for both clinical research and public health. Increasing experimental and observational evidence indicates that exposure to these particles may be associated with adverse biological effects across multiple organ systems. Purpose: This review explores the existing evidence linking micro- and nanoplastics to potential healthrelated outcomes. Its aim is to synthesize current knowledge on the relationship between MNP exposure and human health. Material and methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases to identify studies on micro- and nanoplastics and their biological effects. Studies addressing environmental sources, exposure routes, cellular and molecular mechanisms, toxicological effects, and potential human health implications were included.

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