Research progress on the cellular toxicity caused by microplastics and nanoplastics

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive pollutants, with diameters less than 5 mm, encompassing microplastics (100-5 mm) and nanoplastics (<100 nm).
• Growing concern exists regarding the impact of MPs on human health, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their cytotoxic effects.
• Current research on MP cytotoxicity is not exhaustive, highlighting a need for detailed investigation into their biological interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review and summarize the primary cytotoxic mechanisms of microplastics (MPs) on cellular systems.
• To elucidate how MPs induce oxidative stress, damage cell membrane organelles, trigger immune responses, and cause genotoxicity.
• To provide a scientific foundation for future research on MP toxicity and risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on microplastic (MP) cytotoxicity.
• Analysis of reported mechanisms including oxidative stress, cell membrane and organelle damage, immune activation, and genotoxicity.
• Synthesis of findings to identify common pathways and effects of MP exposure.

Main Results:

• Microplastics induce cytotoxicity via four main mechanisms: oxidative stress, cell membrane and organelle damage, immune response activation, and genotoxicity.
• These effects can be initiated by mechanical damage or the induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production within cells.
• The identified mechanisms highlight the multifaceted ways MPs can harm cellular structures and functions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the cytotoxic mechanisms of MPs is crucial for evaluating their potential human health risks.
• This review provides a consolidated view of MP toxicity, identifying key pathways for further investigation.
• Future research should focus on refining our understanding of these mechanisms to inform public health strategies and environmental policies.