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Microplastics in human blood: Polymer types, concentrations and characterisation using μFTIR
Sophie V L Leonard1, Catriona R Liddle1, Charlotte A Atherall1
1Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom.
Environment International
|May 18, 2024
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) are present in human blood, with 24 polymer types detected in 90% of donors. These tiny plastic particles, predominantly fragments, raise concerns about potential health impacts like vascular inflammation and organ accumulation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Human Health
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental contaminants.
- MPs have been detected in various environmental matrices and are increasingly found within the human body.
- The presence and characteristics of MPs in human blood require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and quantify the types, sizes, and shapes of MPs in human whole blood.
- To assess the concentrations of MPs in blood samples from healthy volunteers.
- To explore potential health implications associated with MP presence in circulation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human whole blood samples from 20 healthy donors.
- Identification and quantification of MP polymer types using advanced analytical techniques.
- Characterization of MP particle size, shape, and color.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four polymer types were identified in 90% of donors; five polymer types exceeded the limit of quantification (LOQ).
- MP concentrations ranged from 1.84 - 4.65 microg/mL, with polyethylene, ethylene propylene diene, and ethylene-vinyl-acetate/alcohol being most abundant.
- Predominantly, MPs were fragments (88%), white/clear (79%), with sizes ranging from 7-3000 µm in length and 5-800 µm in width. Plastic additives, including phthalates, were also detected.
Conclusions:
- This study confirms the uptake and circulation of MPs in the human bloodstream.
- The characteristics of detected MPs suggest potential risks for vascular inflammation, organ accumulation, and alterations in immune and hemostatic functions.
- Further research is crucial to understand the long-term health consequences of MP exposure.
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