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Detection of microplastics in human lung tissue using μFTIR spectroscopy
Lauren C Jenner1, Jeanette M Rotchell2, Robert T Bennett3
1Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Airborne microplastics (MPs) have been sampled globally, and their concentration is known to increase in areas of high human population and activity, especially indoors. Respiratory symptoms and disease following exposure to occupational levels of MPs within industry settings have also been reported. It remains to be seen whether MPs from the environment can be inhaled, deposited and accumulated within the human lungs. This study analysed digested human lung tissue samples (n = 13) using μFTIR spectroscopy (size limitation of 3 μm) to detect and characterise any MPs present. In total, 39 MPs were identified within 11 of the 13 lung tissue samples with an average of 1.42 ± 1.50 MP/g of tissue (expressed as 0.69 ± 0.84 MP/g after background subtraction adjustments). The MP levels within tissue samples were significantly higher than those identified within combined procedural/laboratory blanks (n = 9 MPs, with a mean ± SD of 0.53 ± 1.07, p = 0.001). Of the MPs detected, 12 polymer types were identified with polypropylene, PP (23%), polyethylene terephthalate, PET (18%) and resin (15%) the most abundant. MPs (unadjusted) were identified within all regions of the lung categorised as upper (0.80 ± 0.96 MP/g), middle/lingular (0.41 ± 0.37 MP/g), and with significantly higher levels detected in the lower (3.12 ± 1.30 MP/g) region compared with the upper (p = 0.026) and mid (p = 0.038) lung regions. After subtracting blanks, these levels became 0.23 ± 0.28, 0.33 ± 0.37 and 1.65 ± 0.88 MP/g respectively. The study demonstrates the highest level of contamination control and reports unadjusted values alongside different contamination adjustment techniques. These results support inhalation as a route of exposure for environmental MPs, and this characterisation of types and levels can now inform realistic conditions for laboratory exposure experiments, with the aim of determining health impacts.
Insights
Airborne microplastics (MPs) were detected in human lung tissue, confirming inhalation as a potential exposure route. This study identified various polymer types, providing crucial data for future health impact assessments.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Airborne microplastics (MPs) are globally prevalent, with higher concentrations near human activity.
- Occupational exposure to MPs has been linked to respiratory issues.
- The presence and accumulation of environmental MPs within human lungs remain under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and characterize microplastics (MPs) in human lung tissue.
- To determine if environmental MPs can be inhaled, deposited, and accumulated in the lungs.
- To provide data for future laboratory exposure experiments assessing health impacts.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of digested human lung tissue samples (n=13) using μFTIR spectroscopy (≥3 μm detection limit).
- Rigorous contamination control measures were implemented.
- Quantification and polymer identification of detected MPs.
Main Results:
- 39 MPs were identified in 11 out of 13 lung tissue samples.
- Average MP levels in lung tissue were significantly higher than procedural blanks (p=0.001).
- Polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and resin were the most abundant polymer types detected, with higher concentrations found in the lower lung regions.
Conclusions:
- The study provides the first evidence of microplastic presence in human lungs.
- Inhalation is a viable route for environmental MP exposure.
- Characterization of MP types and levels in lungs informs future toxicological studies on health effects.
