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Impact of dietary exposure to polyester microfibers on hematology, serology and histology in a mouse model
Saira Razzaq1, Safdar Sidra1, Arshad Javid1
1Department of Wildlife and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan.
Abstract:
Synthetic fabrics, especially polyester, are a primary source of microplastic fibers (MFs), but there is limited data on their accumulation and dose related health impact in living organisms. This study examined the effects of ingested polyester microfibers (PE-MFs) on hematology, histopathology, and serum biochemistry in albino mice. Mice were given varying doses of PE-MFs (100, 200, 400 and 800 μg/d/mice) for a duration of thirty-five days and a notable decreases in certain hematological parameters such as RBCs, Hb, and platelets, and increases in MCV and MCH was noted at (p < 0.05) thereby indicating possible inflammatory response within the body resulting from ingestion of these MFs. Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, and alkaline phosphatase) and histopathological changes in the liver and gastrointestinal tract also exhibited significant variations, with higher levels seen in the group receiving the highest dose of PE-MFs (800 μg/d/mice). In summary, increased exposure to PE-MFs led to a dose-related impact and notable alterations in histopathological, hematological, and serum biomarkers in albino mice. This study highlights the potential hazards associated with dietary exposure to PE-MFs in mammals and emphasizes the need for further research in this field.
Insights
Polyester microfibers (PE-MFs) from synthetic fabrics can negatively impact mouse health. Ingesting PE-MFs caused dose-related changes in blood, liver enzymes, and organ tissues, indicating potential mammalian health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Mammalian Biology
Background:
- Synthetic fabrics, particularly polyester, are significant sources of microplastic fibers (MFs).
- Limited data exists on the accumulation and health effects of MFs in living organisms.
- Polyester microfibers (PE-MFs) are a prevalent environmental contaminant with unknown health implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hematological, histopathological, and serum biochemical effects of ingested PE-MFs in albino mice.
- To determine the dose-related health impacts of PE-MF exposure.
- To assess the potential hazards of dietary PE-MFs in mammals.
Main Methods:
- Albino mice were administered varying doses of PE-MFs (100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/d/mice) for 35 days.
- Hematological parameters, serum biochemistry (liver enzymes), and histopathology of liver and gastrointestinal tissues were analyzed.
- Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant variations (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- Significant decreases in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), and platelets were observed.
- Increases in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) indicated potential inflammatory responses.
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase) and notable histopathological changes in the liver and GI tract were dose-dependent, with the highest dose (800 μg/d/mice) showing the most pronounced effects.
Conclusions:
- Ingestion of PE-MFs leads to a dose-related impact on hematology, serum biochemistry, and histopathology in mice.
- Alterations in biomarkers suggest PE-MFs pose potential health risks to mammals.
- Further research is crucial to fully understand the long-term consequences of PE-MF exposure in mammals.
