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The Effects of Micro and Nanoplastics on the Brain and Gene Expression
Summary
This review summarized evidence that micro- and nanoplastic particles have been detected in rodent and fish brain, muscle, liver, kidneys, heart, and GI tract, and can inhibit key enzymes and neurotransmitters including acetylcholinesterase. The authors discussed potential links to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease through neuroinflammation and oxidative stress pathways.
In today's world, it is impossible to avoid coming into contact with micro-and nanoplastic (MNP) particles: from 1950 to 2015, the world produced approximately 6.3 billion tons of plastic in total.MNP particles infiltrate the air, water, and food.As a result, we ingest plastics every day throughout our lives by using ordinary things, such as tea bags, paper cups, water bottles, or toothpaste, and by eating vegetables and meats.In experimental rodents and fish, plastic particles have been detected within the brain, muscles, lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, and GI tract.MNPs that enter the body and breach the brain-blood barrier (BBB) inhibit crucial enzymes and neurotransmitters, in particular acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and induce oxidative stress in cells, leading to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.We analyze the mechanisms behind the neurotoxicity of MNPs by examining the causes of neurotransmitter inhibition and cellular damage, and their effects on the brain and gene expression.This review article highlights the existing research gaps and the urgency for more research on this topic to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the potential health risks of MNP exposure.Moving forward, potential solutions, including the use of probiotics, enzymes, and vitamins, must be explored and utilized.
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