Exposure to polystyrene microplastics during lactational period alters immune status in both male mice and their
Qian Shang1, Han Wu1, Ke Wang1
1State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
Abstract:
The widespread use of microplastics and their harmful effects on the environment have emerged as serious concerns. However, the effect of microplastics on the immune system of mammals, particularly their offspring, has received little attention. In this study, polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) were orally administered to male mice during lactation. Flow cytometry was used to assess the immune cells in the spleens of both adult male mice and their offspring. The results showed that mice exposed to PS-MPs exhibited an increase in spleen weight and an elevated number of B and regulatory T cells (Tregs), irrespective of dosage. Furthermore, the F1 male offspring of the PS-MPs-exposed group had enlarged spleens; an increased number of B cells, T helper cells (Th cells), and Tregs; and an elevated ratio of T helper cells 17 (Th17 cells) to Tregs and T helper cells 1 (Th1 cells) to T helper cells 2 (Th2 cells). These results suggested a pro-inflammatory state in the spleen. In contrast, in the F1 female offspring exposed to PS-MPs, the changes in splenic immune cells were less pronounced. In the F2 generation of mice with exposed to PS-MPs, minimal alterations were observed in spleen immune cells and morphology. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that exposure to real human doses of PS-MPs during lactation in male mice altered the immune status, which can be passed on to F1 offspring but is not inherited across generations.
Insights
Exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) during lactation impacts male mice
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Immunology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental contaminants.
- Their impact on mammalian immune systems, especially in offspring, is understudied.
- Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) are common environmental pollutants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of PS-MPs on the immune system of male mice and their offspring.
- To assess transgenerational immune effects of PS-MPs exposure.
Main Methods:
- Oral administration of PS-MPs to lactating male mice.
- Flow cytometry analysis of splenic immune cells in adult mice and F1/F2 offspring.
- Assessment of spleen weight and immune cell populations (B cells, T helper cells, Tregs).
Main Results:
- PS-MPs exposure increased spleen weight and elevated B cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in exposed adult male mice.
- F1 male offspring exhibited enlarged spleens, increased B cells, T helper cells, Tregs, and altered Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 ratios, indicating inflammation.
- F1 female offspring and F2 generation showed less pronounced or minimal immune alterations.
Conclusions:
- Lactational exposure to PS-MPs in male mice alters immune status, affecting F1 offspring but not through transgenerational inheritance.
- The observed immune changes in F1 males suggest a pro-inflammatory splenic state.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term health implications of microplastic exposure across generations.
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