Polystyrene microplastics with absorbed nonylphenol induce intestinal dysfunction in human Caco-2 cells.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Ubiquitous plastic pollution leads to constant microplastic exposure.
• Nonylphenol (NP), a pollutant, may alter microplastic toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the combined effects of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) and NP on Caco-2 cells.
• Assess impacts on cell viability, intestinal barrier function, and nutrient absorption.

Main Methods:

• Exposed Caco-2 cells to PS-MPs alone or with pre-absorbed NP.
• Measured oxidative stress, inflammation, proliferation (MAPK pathway), apoptosis, and barrier integrity (TER, bypass transport, tight junctions).

Main Results:

• PS-MPs with or without NP induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
• Cell membrane and intestinal barrier damage increased PS-MP internalization risk.
• Nutrient absorption and xenobiotic protection were impaired.
• 0.1 μm PS-MPs initially improved function but later sensitized cells to toxins.

Conclusions:

• Co-exposure to microplastics and nonylphenol poses significant risks to intestinal health.
• Microplastic size influences short-term and long-term cellular responses.
• Understanding these interactions is crucial for assessing environmental health risks.