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Detection of microplastics in human saphenous vein tissue using μFTIR: A pilot study
Jeanette M Rotchell1, Lauren C Jenner2, Emma Chapman1
1Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom.
Plos One
|February 1, 2023
Summary
Microplastics were detected in human vein tissues, marking the first evidence of vascular contamination. This study characterized the types and levels of these particles, informing future research on their health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly found in environmental and biological samples, including human blood and lungs.
- The presence and characteristics of MPs in human vascular tissues remain largely unexplored.
- Understanding MP contamination in veins is crucial for assessing potential health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot an analysis of microplastic contamination in human saphenous vein tissue.
- To determine the presence, levels, and polymer types of microplastics in these tissues.
- To provide data for realistic laboratory exposure experiments on vascular health impacts.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of digested human saphenous vein tissue samples (n=5).
- Detection and characterization of microplastics using μFTIR spectroscopy (≥5 μm).
- Comparison with procedural blanks to assess airborne contamination.
Main Results:
- Twenty microplastic particles of five polymer types were identified in 4 out of 5 vein samples.
- Average contamination levels were 29.28 ± 34.88 MP/g (unadjusted) and 14.99 ± 17.18 MP/g (adjusted).
- Dominant polymer types included alkyd resin, poly(vinyl propionate/acetate), and nylon-EVA tie layer, predominantly irregular in shape.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first evidence of microplastic contamination in human vascular tissues.
- Detected microplastics in veins differ in polymer types from airborne contamination in procedural blanks.
- Findings support the transport of microplastics within human tissues and inform future toxicological studies.
